SVCC Latest News Releases

Former Oregon Police Officer Heads SVCC’s Criminal Justice Program

Sauk Valley Community College’s new assistant professor of criminal justice is living the dream. Jon Mandrell, who takes the reins of Sauk’s criminal justice program this fall, was always torn between his love of police work and his love of teaching. Now he is fulfilling both dreams.

Mandrell, of Polo, is a six-year veteran of the Oregon Police Department and was an adjunct at Sauk, taught criminal justice courses part-time before taking the position full time. Mandrell said his love of teaching is spurred by the high level of interest students have in criminal justice.

“I love meeting with the students because their interest in the field is so high,” said Mandrell. “I like reinforcing that their career dreams can become a reality.”

Mandrell started as a patrolman, worked to achieve the rank of corporal, and was promoted to night shift supervisor. Being particularly interested in working with juveniles, he specialized in juvenile matters. Mandrell helped initiate a number of after-school programs and summer events, and he helped open up new lines of communication between children and parents. As an adjunct instructor at Sauk, he also worked to help start practicums, ride-alongs, and internships for students interested in the field.

After attending SVCC, Mandrell transferred to Western Illinois University where he earned a Bachelor of Science in Law Enforcement. He returned home to begin his police career in Oregon and later continued his education by earning a Master of Arts in Law Enforcement and Justice Administration from WIU, while going to school and working full-time. Mandrell has several goals for the College’s already-successful criminal justice curriculum.

“Most importantly, I want to give students that academic side to the criminal justice and law enforcement field,” says Mandrell. “I want to concentrate on giving students the education that our local police departments expect as well as university program and outside agencies.”

Mandrell adds that he wants to add more courses that are intensive on probation and parole, and, that he will stay on top of technical advances, keep up with online curriculum, but will not lose contact with students by keeping face-to-face interaction with students as much as possible. In addition, Mandrell plans to revitalize the college’s criminal justice club this fall.

With a solid professional and education background and a successful growing curriculum in both traditional and online course offerings, Mandrell will bring a new level of interest to Sauk’s criminal justice program. What’s more, Mandrell says there are opportunities in the field despite the economic downturn.
“Even in tough economic times, the criminal justice field is a solid, reliable field where there will always be a need,” he said.

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‘New Student Information Sessions’ to be Offered July 22, 23

Sauk Valley Community College will host two “New Student Information Sessions” for new Sauk students that have registered for the fall semester, students with less than 15 hours of credit, or anyone that is considering enrolling at Sauk.

An evening session will be offered from 5 to 8 p.m. on Wednesday, July 22, in Sauk’s East Mall. A daytime session will be offered from 9 a.m. to noon on Thursday, July 23, also in Sauk’s East Mall.

New Student Information Night will feature campus tours and information tables with Sauk staff who will provide information on Sauk’s academic programs, different resources available, and answer all questions. Students will be able to learn about life as a Sauk student, meet other new students, set up their college e-mail, and more. Refreshments will be served.

Pre-registration is asked. RSVP with your choice of time and the number of people that will attend. Preregistration may be completed online at www.svcc.edu or by calling 835 6273.

For more information on Sauk’s New Student Information Sessions, call Ana Salgado, recruiter, at 815/835 6432 or Jerry Winger, recruiter, at 815/-835 6240.

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SVCC Student Awarded Donna Duncan Memorial Nursing Scholarship

SVCC Grad Awarded Donna Duncan Memorial Nursing Scholarship

Sauk Valley Community College student Julie Hackbarth of Rock Falls was recently awarded the Donna Duncan Memorial Nursing Scholarship for the 2009-10 academic year. This $1,000 scholarship was delivered through the Sauk Foundation.

Hackbarth, an adult returning student, worked in manufacturing for more than 10 years, and was a stay-at-home mother before returning to Sauk. She recently completed her Associate Degree in Practical Nursing (LPN) and plans to pursue a career in the nursing field.

“It is a pleasure to assist students achieve their educational goals,” said Amy Viering, Sauk’s director of foundation and grants.

The daughter of Bonnie O’Brien of Rock Falls and the late William Dean, Hackbarth and her husband Tyke, have two children.

The Donna Duncan Memorial Nursing Scholarship was established in 2005 in memory of Donna Duncan, a graduate of SVCC's Associate Degree Nursing (ADN) program, who passed away from cancer. A fundraiser is held each year in her name to continue to raise funds for nursing students.

The Sauk Foundation is a non-profit corporation that helps to broaden the educational opportunities and services that SVCC provides for its students. Each year the Sauk Foundation funds numerous scholarships for Sauk students that total more than $160,000.

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SVCC AmeriCorps member to Travel to Nigeria

Former Sauk Valley Community College student and AmeriCorps member Irean Smith will take the trip of a lifetime this summer.

Smith, of Dixon, will join a contingent of healthcare professionals and volunteers who will provide medical help to children in 19 different villages in the territory of Arochukwu from July 22 through August 6.

While serving at Kreider Services, Joyce Palmer, the center’s former director of nursing, first took notice of Irean’s service as a LeaderCorps member for ABC AmeriCorps. Whether it was organizing a Book Drive, Food Drive, or Cell Phone Drive to earn free calling cards for troops overseas, she always included Jack Mabley Center as a collection site. This caused people to ask about AmeriCorps and become aware of her passion for volunteering and helping others. Joyce approached Irean and mentioned past medical mission trips and asked if she’d be interested in going on a future trip, which she said she would be. Smith got her wish.

Palmer, who now directs medical services at the Dixon Correctional Center, said the group will visit schools to help an estimated 10,000 to 15,000 children get rid of intestinal parasites that rob the children of important nutrients. The group will also provide medical outreach to the population in some areas and visit an orphanage.
Palmer describes Smith as very compassionate with a love for people and children. “She’s definitely got a heart to serve,” said Palmer.

In addition to working at Mabley Center, Smith also completed AmeriCorps volunteer work with Kreider Services in Dixon. In fact, she was asked to return to Kreider during her second year in AmeriCorps. Smith, who is also a disaster services volunteer with the Lee County unit of the American Red Cross, has a career goal of becoming a registered nurse.

“If I could make a wish and knew it would come true, it would be to have everyone experience being a student at Sauk and being an AmeriCorps member,” said Smith, who adds that her experience with AmeriCorps something that she will carry with her for a lifetime.
Sabrina Earl, coordinator of Sauk’s AmeriCorps, said the work AmeriCorps members provide a valuable stepping stone to great opportunities such as Smith’s.

“Irean is passionate about volunteerism and giving back to her community,” said Earl. “Now she is getting the chance to do that internationally.”

ABC AmeriCorps, a national service program sponsored by SVCC, serves Lee, Whiteside, Carroll, Ogle, DeKalb, Bureau, LaSalle, Livingston, Henry, and Rock Island Counties. ABC AmeriCorps members work with children, youth, and families in education programs and community-based agencies to increase academic and life skills. They also participate in environmental, public safety, homeland security, and other human service needs projects. For more information, call 815/288-5511, ext. 313.

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New Student Informational Sessions July 22 & 23

ARE YOU A NEW STUDENT OR A STUDENT WITH LESS THAN 15 CREDITS?
IF SO, ATTEND ONE OF OUR NEW STUDENT INFORMATIONAL SESSIONS!

THERE ARE TWO DATES TO CHOOSE FROM:
JULY 22 – 5 PM TO 8 PM
JULY 23 – 9 AM TO NOON

We know that college is an exciting and challenging time for students, so we've prepared a New Student Informational Session focused on helping you make a smooth transition to your life as a college student. Even if you have already scheduled your classes, this is an opportunity for you and any interested friend or family member to learn more about SVCC.

During the New Student Informational Session, you'll have the opportunity to:

Learn about life as a Sauk student
Attend the informational fair to ask questions about your academic area of study, consult with Financial Aid, and learn about resources available at Sauk
Meet other students who will be entering SVCC in the fall
Become more familiar with campus
Set up your college e-mail

WOULD YOU RATHER REGISTER OFFLINE? PLEASE CONTACT 815/835-6273.
Ready to Register? Fill out the form below.

Last

First

Middle

Address

Unit

City

State

Zip

Student ID:

E-mail

Telephone (XXX-XXX-XXXX)

Preferred Date

How many guests will attend?

Online Payments may be unavailable June 30

Online Payments through SOAR and Deferred Payment Plan may be unavailable between 4:00pm June 30 and 7:00am July 1, 2009.

College Closed July 2 for Fourth of July Holiday

Sauk Offering Off-Campus GED Classes through July 28

Sauk Valley Community College is currently offering GED classes (General Educational Development) off campus at locations in Dixon, Rock Falls, and Sterling. The classes, which are running now through July 28, are open entry so students may register anytime. Class offerings include:

Dixon

Church of the Brethren, 215 N. Court, 9 to 11:45 a.m., Tuesdays and Thursdays, now through July 28. Instructor: Sharon Lilly.
Dixon Public Library, 221 S. Hennepin Ave., 4:30 to 7:15 p.m., Tuesdays and Thursdays, now through July 28. Instructor: Lois Porter.

Rock Falls

Rock Falls Middle School, 1701 12th Ave., 9 to 11:45 a.m., Mondays and Wednesdays, now through July 28. Instructor: Pam Meyers.

Sterling

YWCA of the Sauk Valley, 412 First Ave., 9 to 11:45 a.m., Mondays and Wednesdays, now through July 28. Instructor: Paul Miller.

These classes prepare students to pass the GED high school equivalency exam. To enroll, students just need to attend the class of their choice and registration will be conducted on site during class. There is no charge as tuition is paid for through state and federal grants. Textbooks are provided for use in class.

Students that are highly motivated and want to get ahead quickly are encouraged to enroll in a GED course and use the open lab in Sauk’s Adult Education Center, Room 1E8, between 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Thursday. The College is closed on Fridays during the summer.

For further information, call Sauk’s Office of Adult Education at 815/288-5511, extensions 312 or 231.

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Skyhawk Summer Intramural Sports!

Co-ed Softball Fun Days

Wednesday, June 17 & 24
2 p.m.
SVCC Softball Field

Skyhawk H-O-R-S-E Tournament

Thursday, July 9
2 p.m.
SVCC Gym

Skyhawk Tennis Challenge

Thursday, July 16
2 p.m.
SVCC Courts

For more information contact:

Russ Damhoff
Athletic Director/IntramuralCoordinator
815-835-6234
Office: 1H1

SVCC President’s, Deans’ List Announced for Spring '09 Semester

SVCC President’s, Deans’ List Announced for Spring '09

Two hundred eighty-seven full- and part-time Sauk Valley Community College students have been named to the President’s List for high academic achievement during the spring semester. Another 170 students made the Deans’ List.

President’s List–Full-Time Students (4.0 GPA)

SVCC President Dr. George Mihel said 58 full-time students topped the President’s List with straight “A” averages. The students and their hometowns include:

AMBOY: Sarah J. Fredericks, Rebecca A. Gant, Sarah E. Shepherd and Alison A. Wittenauer.

ASHTON: Tyler R. Stauffer.

DIXON: Rachel A. Blackert, Siwen Frana, Cynthia A. Heckman, Jarrett M. Ludwig, Kristina M. McWethy, Teresa M. Naill, Beth M. Popovich, Adam C. Portner, Kelli J. Shipman, Brooke C. Smith, Terra Thomas and Kenneth J. Williams.

FRANKLIN GROVE: Shawn P. Kelleher and Tammy S. Marquette.

FULTON: Tim W. Fulfs.

HARMON: Walter Parsons.

LYNDON: Jason D. Loechel.

MANLIUS: Tammy L. Miranda.

MOUNT MORRIS: Mason J. Streadwick.

OHIO: Heather R. Urban.

OREGON: Ashley M. Flanagan and Brian T. Stafford.

PROPHETSTOWN: Courtney M. Dirks and Ian L. Wankerl.

ROCK FALLS: Holly A. Keller, Robert Minor, Christopher M. Ratliff, Jerry M. Rose, Jennifer L. Sondgeroth, Ashley D. Stover, Cheri R. Todd, Christina M. Warner and April Wilkinson.

SAVANNA: Patricia L. Bonjour and April L. Miller.

STERLING: Peter P. Ackley, Amanda L. Anderson, Kweku E. Bentum, Jennifer M. Carskaden, Jung-Hee Cha, Karissa L. Glazier, Joseph M. Gonzalez, Mallory K. Klein, Mercedes Lopez, Bethany A. Megill, Hannah R. Megill, Katie A. Mewhirter, Andrew G. Mihel and Kristi S. Wolfe.

TAMPICO: Whitney A. Phillips.

WALNUT: James L. Nugent and Jason R. Ohda.

WOOSUNG: Kathryn L. Dewey.

President’s List–Part-Time students (4.0 GPA)

AMBOY: Alexandrea K. Brady, Donna M. Dewey, Patti M. Gant, Tyler L. Harrison, Jerome P. Jamroch, Morgan L. Leffelman, Brian G. O'Connell, Nettie A. Poulos, Emilie R. Rod and Anna R. Schulz.

ASHTON: Kelly N. Christensen, Josue Granillo, Aubrey E. Kennay, Kirsten L. Mahaffey and Anna G. Toole.

BETHALTO: Chiyo J. Palen.

CHADWICK: Angela K. Harmon.

DIXON: Michael J. Albee, Jesse L. Arjes, Sarah E. Beck, Janet M. Bennett, Edward L. Blackburn, Mary Bratt, Sarah Bratt, Amanda L. Brimm, Jason M. Carroll, Lisa L. Chandler, Raphael E. Chavez, Janette A. Clay, Margaret R. Clay, Zachary A. Costliow, Denise J. Deter, Mohammad A. El-Ahmad, Brian E. Fane, Brenda FitzMaurice, Danae E. Forman, Thomas E. Foster, Kelly A. Fritts, Brittany A. Geiger, Trevor A. Glenn, Alberto B. Gonzalez, Kevin R. Harshman, Joshua A. Hauck, Sowmya N. Hombal, Erin R. Johnson, Evan J. Knack, Jordan Kulhanek, April L. Lantz, Taylor D. Lovett, Leslie E. Mann, Jeffery D. Meredith, Desiree L. Monk, Sarah M. Moore, Jacqueline F. Parker, Adam D. Poole, Alex C. Ramirez, Jensin Roberts, Marcelino Robles, Jamie S. Rodriguez, Joseph K. Roth, Stephanie A. Rudolphi, Hannah M. Schnake, Danielle A. Sheridan, Jessica N. Smith, Carrie A. Smoot, Christian A. Stanek, Emily E. Stewart, Patricia L. Trenholm, Christel A. Valdes, Glenn N. Wallin, Brandon J. Watson, Rick F. Werner and Daniel Willstead.

FRANKLIN GROVE: Michelle L. Bartlett, Kathleen M. Cahill, Ashley E. Hall, Cody L. Smith and Kaitlyn M. Smith.

GENESEO: Alissa R. Dwyer.

HARMON: Martin J. Hicks.

KEWANEE: Joey L. Janey.

LYNDON: Wesley F. Brinkman.

MANLIUS: Roxann D. Ziano.

MILLEDGEVILLE: Laura A. Buckman, Kirk H. Engelkens, Jena R. Queckboerner and Mary E. Riley.

MORRISON: Patty L. Bush, Carrie R. Conderman, Anneliese E. Hohmeier, Michael E. Hunter, Michael R. Miller, Jamie A. Olds, Mary A. Poulter, Jim P. Shirk, Holly N. Spencer, Mitchell L. Stichter, Arthur K. VanZuiden and Nicholas M. Vargas.

MOUNT MORRIS: Kimberly R. Reese.

OREGON: Amy N. Beauchem, Debra S. Julian, Kaitlyn J. Kielsmeier, Jeffrey A. Sansone, Mary A. Sansone and Cathy J. Thompson.

POLO: Amanda C. Bowers, Michael E. Dubois, Donielle D. Hoffman, Lindsay J. Swartz and James A. Tarbill.

PROPHETSTOWN: Valerie M. Woolums.

ROCK FALLS: Jacob P. Anderson, Ashley A. Barton, Carl E. Bushar, Lacy M. Cole, Jeanne A. DePuy, Todd A. Dimmig, David Galvan, Stacey L. Good, Judith A. Gordon, Cynthia L. Haan, Thomas R. Hacker, Lee A. Hippen, Sarah L. Jones, Emmaleia A. Kardaras, Marcel B. Keefe and Jacob M. Near.

STERLING: Colin R. Adams, Shawna L. Alexander, Allyson K. Ansusinha, Ashley A. Barger, Robert L. Batten, Kerri A. Bresley, Mitch Brink, Angela M. Cameron, Deborah J. Cassens, Brennen K. Dir, Richard A. Engel, Monica M. Fane, Yolanda Fowler, Timothy S. Frank, Madison M. Henry, Bruce E. Henson, Michelle N. Kelly, Sandra J. Krause, Andrew S. Magana, Adrienne N. Martinez, Rebekah J. Megill, Serena M. Miller, Kelly E. Nickrent, Conor Prince, Nicholas S. Rivera, Lee A. Schneider, Cady L. Schrader, Alan L. Scott, Dawn M. Sherman, Taylor A. Viering, Ryan S. Wagner and Sheila D. Werland.

SUBLETTE: Justin J. Burke and Brian D. Ketcham.

TAMPICO: Amber M. Linder, Anthony E. Nielsen and Anita M. Sigel-Smith.

WALNUT: Ann D. Berry, Bernard P. Donovan, Elizabeth A. Freeman, Levi S. Veil and Alyssa J. Zell.

WOOSUNG: Laura A. Bessert.

WYANET: Joseph A. Day and Kyle S. Etheridge.

President’s List–Full-Time students (3.75 GPA or Better)

AMBOY: Cody D. Daniels.

DIXON: Arlinda Bajrami, Natasha A. Beard, Ling Chen, Mitchell C. Crabtree, Aaron M. Fassler, Christopher L. Greenwalt, Timothy A. Hagenbuch, Jonathan E. Hoekstra, Michael P. McGillivray, Matthew D. Meyers, Mark E. Miller, Samantha L. Mumford, Bailey A. Musser, Taylor V. Myers, Corey M. Reuter and Cody D. Rhea.

FRANKLIN GROVE: Michael J. Dempsey, Nathan H. Schumacher and Elizabeth M. Wolfe.

FULTON: Samantha M. Yeager.

MORRISON: Nathan Kooi, Jennifer L. Kovach and Nathan P. VanderVinne.

MOUNT MORRIS: Dustin W. Mckay.

OHIO: Angela L. Dunn.

POLO: Justin A. Diehl, Brian P. Grobe and Courtney N. Webster.

ROCK FALLS: Aaron L. Epps, Mark E. Fisher, Brooke L. Hepker, Patricia K. Marsh, Onnica F. Martin, Kelly E. McCue and Tabitha P. Seidel.

SHEFFIELD: Christopher D. Culjan.

STERLING: Heleanna G. Babin, Ashley N. Capp, Elizabeth M. Ellis, Alexander S. Hesser, Whitney L. Kelly, Stephanie M. Pennington, Javier Pineda, Mark J. Sciacero, Lauren V. Torres and Minh L. Vu.

WALNUT: Audra A. Davis-Hurst, Dane C. Huseman and Sarah A. Kriz.

President’s List–Part-Time students (3.75 GPA or Better)

DIXON: Allison M. Spelde.

MORRISON: Charles L. Strand.

OREGON: Chris W. Spahr.

ROCK FALLS: Shawna R. Bopes.

STERLING: David X. Lee.

WALNUT: Andrea C. Ohda.

Deans’ List–Full-Time students (3.5-3.749 GPA)

AMBOY: Paige E. Lovgren and James VanNatta.

ASHTON: Leslie M. Heng and Lindsay M. Meurer.

DEER GROVE: Tina M. Pierceson.

DIXON: Kimberly Albrecht, Danica E. Bock, Natalie B. Boedeker, Cynthia Bonkowski, Antoinette F. Brown, Megan N. Centonze, Lauren M. Gabriel, Kassie B. Guidebeck, Hailey N. Kruger, Tammy S. Lund, Nichole L. McBride, Lailonie M. McKinney, Mackenzie A. Melendrez, Aaron C. Moats, Hana A. Muhsin, Alicia Prosch, Tara E. Seydel, Michael J. Shippert and Melissa M. Vivian.

FRANKLIN GROVE: Sara B. Cornelius, Brandon M. Elmendorf, Samantha J. Logan, Seth R. Lundquist and Kyle A. Wolber.

FULTON: Jeff A. Wilson.

MANLIUS: Gail L. Coyle.

MORRISON: Stacy L. Dillard, Sarah E. Eissens, Chitra R. Patel, Kyla J. Renkes, David J. Richards, Brianna K. Simpson and Tiffany R. Smith.

MOUNT MORRIS: Brittany N. Lozano.

OHIO: Leah M. Metcalf.

OREGON: Kathryn D. Cook.

POLO: Amanda M. Corbitt, Lindsey M. Early, Jessica A. Miller, Collin Pilla, Keegan C. Terry and Katie L. Wright.

PRINCETON: Mitchell B. Danielson.

ROCK FALLS: Shane A. Blair, Jericho Davis, Ashley N. Fritz, Tessa M. Gallentine and Carisa M. Valdez.

STERLING: Heather R. Andermann, Tiffani M. Heintzelman, Alyssa L. Kuster, Samantha J. Miller, Marla J. Rhodes, Brock M. Shank and John L. Staranko.

SUBLETTE: Andrew Schultz.

WALNUT: Audrey L. Davis.

Deans’ List–Part-Time students (3.5-3.749 GPA)

AMBOY: Adam G. Balder, Angela M. Roland, Emily K. Schrock and Lisa M. Wright.

ASHTON: Ethan D. Baylor, Stevie L. Dodillet, Dana L. Henert, Christopher J. LeFevre and Karen L. Planthaber.

BROOKLYN: Nathan D. Jagrup.

BUDA: Bridget A. Dickinson and Tess L. Nelson.

CHADWICK: Christopher M. Mecum. DIXON: Katie E. Barton, Michael R. Breitzka, Lindsay M. Bufford, Dana J. Chacon, Jocelyn D. Delhotal, Emily Devers, Cynthia Getter, Rebecca L. Giroux, Darce A. Hackbarth, Jay A. Lammers, Tara L. Lifka, Jessica A. Martin, Randolph S. Miller, Lauren A. Mills, Minh Chau T. Nguyen, Nicole D. Perez, Ted W. Rowley, Blair J. Sankey, Steven S. Smith, Angela M. Sowl, Brandon T. Treviranus, Stacy L. Trotter and Wesley D. Ward.

FREEPORT: Amanda M. Greenfield.

FULTON: Ryan C. Easley and Corey J. Garrett.

HARMON: Natalie E. Rutherford.

LANARK: Kaylan R. Dietz.

LYNDON: Justin R. Lilly and Brandon G. Rogers.

MILLEDGEVILLE: Luke J. Robertson.

MORRISON: Terrie J. Carroll, Kaitlin E. Duncan and Bette J. Poulter.

MOUNT MORRIS: James E. Nelson and Amy L. White.

OHIO: Amanda J. Holper and Christopher M. Piper.

POLO: Cynthia S. Schryver, Jonathan P. Stauffer, Brandi L. Tyne and Zully A. Vock.

RIDOTT: Keegan M. Hilton.

ROCK FALLS: Jacob P. Appenzeller, Summer Babcock, Danielle M. Benhart, Colleen A. Bonnell, Joshua Grimes, Jessinia F. Loyola, Branden S. Meier, Ashley E. Nelson, Joanie D. Padilla, Adam T. Rimmer, Abigail K. Tichler, Katheryn J. Wilkinson, Jacie L. Young and Tyler Young.

SHEFFIELD: Christina M. Lowers.

SPRING VALLEY: Marissa D. Laicoff.

STERLING: Leah D. Anderson, Michael J. Beck, Joshua M. Boyes, Jami J. Castaneda, Jamie R. Cervantez, Linda M. Collins, Hayleigh N. Covella, Andrea L. Day, Benjamin S. Felker, Anthony Garza,
Kathrine S. Gillen, Matthew A. Greer, Cassandra M. Jibben, Joshua A. Kunde, Jamaica G. Leblanc, Brooke L. Marks, Erika L. Matheney, Dawn M. McKenna, Devon C. McKnight, Jordan V. Nares, Jennifer L. Nusbaum, Joan M. Padilla, Russell E. Page, Shanda M. Pyron, John A. Rabadan, Amy M. Regalado, Samantha J. Sisson, Jeff R. Slaton, Teri Soper, Amber N. Swanstrom, Mary Triplett, Jennifer L. Trotter and Melinda S. Williams.

SUBLETTE: Sharon M. Curl.

WALNUT: Tina D. Thompson.

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SVCC Proudly Announces May 2009 Graduates

SVCC Announces May 2009 Graduates

Two hundred twenty Sauk Valley Community College graduates received degrees of Associate in Arts, Associate in Science, Associate in Engineering Science, Associate in Fine Arts, Associate in Applied Science, Associate in Liberal Studies and certificates in May. The graduates and their hometowns include:

AMBOY: Alexandrea Kristina Brady, CERTIFICATE; Cody David Daniels, ASSOCIATE IN SCIENCE; Holly Ann Dinges, ASSOCIATE IN SCIENCE; Stacey Nicole Dinges, ASSOCIATE IN SCIENCE; Tiffany M. Fleming, ASSOCIATE IN APPLIED SCIENCE; Rebecca Ann Gant, ASSOCIATE IN SCIENCE; Jerome P. Jamroch, CERTIFICATE; Emilie Marie Lauer, ASSOCIATE IN SCIENCE; Alice Marie Mastricola, ASSOCIATE IN LIBERAL STUDIES; Timothy Justin Mundy, CERTIFICATE; Susan Elizabeth Shaw, ASSOCIATE IN ARTS; Sarah E. Shepherd, CERTIFICATE; and James Edward Van Natta, ASSOCIATE IN SCIENCE.

ASHTON: Donald Joseph Bartoli, ASSOCIATE IN SCIENCE; Lacey Nicole Dvorak, ASSOCIATE IN ARTS; Lucas Hunter Zellers, ASSOCIATE IN ARTS; and Sean B. Zellers, ASSOCIATE IN APPLIED SCIENCE, CERTIFICATE.
BUDA: Zachary Alan Decker, ASSOCIATE IN SCIENCE; and Bridget Ann Dickinson, CERTIFICATE.

CHADWICK: Angela K. Harmon, CERTIFICATE; Jami Martina Juarez, CERTIFICATE; and Megan Therese Potaczek, CERTIFICATE.

DIXON: Kimberly Jo Albrecht, ASSOCIATE IN SCIENCE; Andres David Arellano, ASSOCIATE IN SCIENCE; Dustin James Barker, ASSOCIATE IN SCIENCE; Katie Elizabeth Barton, ASSOCIATE IN SCIENCE; Angela L. Beach, CERTIFICATE; Kenneth Vernon Berogan, CERTIFICATE; Russell Arther Bonnell, ASSOCIATE IN APPLIED SCIENCE, CERTIFICATE; Michael Robert Breitzka, CERTIFICATE; Lindsay M. Bufford, CERTIFICATE; Matthew R. Carlson, ASSOCIATE IN APPLIED SCIENCE; Laura E. Cassens, ASSOCIATE IN APPLIED SCIENCE; Lauren Elizabeth Cecchetti, CERTIFICATE; Megan N. Centonze, ASSOCIATE IN ARTS; Lisa L. Chandler, CERTIFICATE; Calvin David Clapdorp, ASSOCIATE IN SCIENCE; Tyler S. Cox, ASSOCIATE IN SCIENCE; Jessica Lynn Faley, ASSOCIATE IN SCIENCE; Aaron Michael Fassler, ASSOCIATE IN SCIENCE; Siwen Frana, CERTIFICATE; Britney D. Noirfalise, ASSOCIATE IN ARTS; Cynthia Diane Getter, CERTIFICATE; Timothy Edward Grove, ASSOCIATE IN SCIENCE; Emily Christine Harrison, ASSOCIATE IN APPLIED SCIENCE; Kevin Ryan Harshman, ASSOCIATE IN APPLIED SCIENCE, three CERTIFICATES; Keith Stanley Head, ASSOCIATE IN SCIENCE; Kelly Katherine Heitzler, ASSOCIATE IN APPLIED SCIENCE; Amanda Sue Helfrich, ASSOCIATE IN APPLIED SCIENCE; Kyle Allen Henkel, ASSOCIATE IN SCIENCE; Alexa Suzanne Homb, CERTIFICATE; Christy L. Janssen, two CERTIFICATES; Charlene M. Jones, ASSOCIATE IN APPLIED SCIENCE, two CERTIFICATES; Steven Louis Joos, ASSOCIATE IN SCIENCE; Matthias P. Kemmeren, ASSOCIATE IN APPLIED SCIENCE; Glynis Ann Lackland, ASSOCIATE IN APPLIED SCIENCE; April Lynn Lantz, CERTIFICATE; Jarrett M. Ludwig, ASSOCIATE IN APPLIED SCIENCE; James Joseph McDermott, ASSOCIATE IN APPLIED SCIENCE; Mary Ann McThenia, CERTIFICATE; Kristina Marie McWethy, ASSOCIATE IN ARTS; Alex R. Merkley, ASSOCIATE IN SCIENCE; Amanda Sue Michel, ASSOCIATE IN APPLIED SCIENCE, ASSOCIATE IN LIBERAL STUDIES; Lauren Anne Mills, CERTIFICATE; Amran Adnan Muhsin, ASSOCIATE IN SCIENCE; Tracy E. Mulligan, CERTIFICATE; Teresa M. Naill, ASSOCIATE IN SCIENCE, ASSOCIATE IN APPLIED SCIENCE; Minh Chau Thi Nguyen, CERTIFICATE; Jacqueline F. Parker, CERTIFICATE; Rachel Margaret Phelps, ASSOCIATE IN SCIENCE; Beth Marie Popovich, ASSOCIATE IN APPLIED SCIENCE; Adam Christopher Portner, CERTIFICATE; Shiovahn Marie Russell, ASSOCIATE IN APPLIED SCIENCE; Douglas A. Sears, ASSOCIATE IN SCIENCE; Rebecca Ann Shoemaker, ASSOCIATE IN SCIENCE; Heather A. Smith, ASSOCIATE IN SCIENCE; Brett Andrew Steadman, ASSOCIATE IN SCIENCE; Jessica M. Stencil, CERTIFICATE; Lynn M. Stewart, CERTIFICATE; Ethan Joseph Sward, two CERTIFICATES; Jessica Lynn Underhile, ASSOCIATE IN APPLIED SCIENCE; Christel Valdes, ASSOCIATE IN APPLIED SCIENCE; Ryan M. Varga, CERTIFICATE; Sarina Nicole Venier, CERTIFICATE; Melissa Marie Vivian, ASSOCIATE IN SCIENCE; Michael P. Watson, ASSOCIATE IN SCIENCE; Cynthia Marie Woodard, ASSOCIATE IN ARTS; and Edith L. Yarbrough, CERTIFICATE.

FORRESTON: Adam M. Ludewig, ASSOCIATE IN ARTS; and Relman Ranz, two CERTIFICATES.

FRANKLIN GROVE: Shawn P. Kelleher, CERTIFICATE; Seth Ryan Carl Lundquist, ASSOCIATE IN SCIENCE; Tammy Sue Marquette, ASSOCIATE IN APPLIED SCIENCE; Nathan Howard Schumacher, ASSOCIATE IN SCIENCE; and Alecia Nicole Spangler, ASSOCIATE IN SCIENCE.

GRAYSLAKE: Danielle A. Henry, ASSOCIATE IN SCIENCE.

HARMON: Oscar E. Moreno, CERTIFICATE.

LANARK: Julia L. Allmon, CERTIFICATE.

MILLEDGEVILLE: Laura Ann Buckman, CERTIFICATE.

MORRISON: Nathan Joel Kooi, ASSOCIATE IN ARTS; Lindsay Nicole Kuehl, two ASSOCIATE IN APPLIED SCIENCE; Amy Lea Landheer, CERTIFICATE; Kyla Jo Renkes, ASSOCIATE IN SCIENCE; Charles L. Strand, CERTIFICATE; August F. Ufkin, CERTIFICATE; and Nathan Paul VanderVinne, ASSOCIATE IN SCIENCE.

MOUNT MORRIS: Kelsey Dee Huls, CERTIFICATE; Maggie Jo McPhillips, ASSOCIATE IN APPLIED SCIENCE; Dustie D. Stone, CERTIFICATE; and Mason Jonah Streadwick, ASSOCIATE IN SCIENCE.

OHIO: Heather Renate Urban, ASSOCIATE IN SCIENCE.

OREGON: Zada Bailey, ASSOCIATE IN APPLIED SCIENCE; Tabatha Lynn Burgett, CERTIFICATE; Amber Marie McWethy, ASSOCIATE IN APPLIED SCIENCE; Christine Nicole Nordman, CERTIFICATE; Mary Alice Sansone, CERTIFICATE; and Tyler James Spratt, ASSOCIATE IN SCIENCE.

POLO: Rae Ann Baker, ASSOCIATE IN LIBERAL STUDIES; Jenna Loy Cleaveland, ASSOCIATE IN SCIENCE; Michael Edward Dubois, CERTIFICATE; and Katie Lane Wright, ASSOCIATE IN ARTS.

PRINCETON: Mitchell B. Danielson, ASSOCIATE IN ARTS.

PROPHETSTOWN: Timothy Roy Lundquist Jr., ASSOCIATE IN LIBERAL STUDIES.

ROCK FALLS: Amanda Nichol Burkitt, ASSOCIATE IN APPLIED SCIENCE; Melissa I. Cassens, ASSOCIATE IN APPLIED SCIENCE; Cristina Castellanos, CERTIFICATE; Jared Ian Caudillo, CERTIFICATE; Shawn K. Conboy, ASSOCIATE IN SCIENCE; Lindsey Marie Coward, ASSOCIATE IN SCIENCE; Carlos L. Davila, CERTIFICATE; Rachel Marie Donnelly, ASSOCIATE IN SCIENCE; Mark Emerson Fisher, CERTIFICATE; David C. Galvan, ASSOCIATE IN APPLIED SCIENCE; Heather Donielle Gould, CERTIFICATE; Monte D. Grooms, CERTIFICATE; Tab Anthony Law, ASSOCIATE IN SCIENCE; Tyler Joe Law, ASSOCIATE IN SCIENCE; Satin Marie Likes, ASSOCIATE IN APPLIED SCIENCE; Lisa Lynn Lilly, ASSOCIATE IN ARTS; Onnica Faye Martin, ASSOCIATE IN ARTS; Monica Anne Mix, CERTIFICATE; Nathaniel Garry Nelson, ASSOCIATE IN SCIENCE; Mary Catherine Nielsen, CERTIFICATE; Michael L. Niemeyer, ASSOCIATE IN APPLIED SCIENCE; Joanie D. Padilla, ASSOCIATE IN SCIENCE; Christopher Michael Ratliff, ASSOCIATE IN SCIENCE; Lisa K. Rose, ASSOCIATE IN APPLIED SCIENCE; Carisa Marie Valdez, ASSOCIATE IN SCIENCE; Christina Megan Warner, CERTIFICATE; and Lynsey Nicole Young, ASSOCIATE IN SCIENCE.

SHEFFIELD: Christopher Culjan, ASSOCIATE IN ARTS; and Ryan Lee DeBrock, ASSOCIATE IN APPLIED SCIENCE.

STERLING: Shaquita Monique Alston, CERTIFICATE; Leah Danielle Anderson, ASSOCIATE IN APPLIED SCIENCE; Ashley Ann Barger, ASSOCIATE IN ARTS; Michael Edward Jacob Beck, ASSOCIATE IN ARTS; Sean M. Bond, ASSOCIATE IN APPLIED SCIENCE; Jamie Lee Burger, ASSOCIATE IN APPLIED SCIENCE; Angela Marie Cameron, ASSOCIATE IN APPLIED SCIENCE; Ashley Nicole Capp, ASSOCIATE IN ARTS; Tyler Lee Davis, ASSOCIATE IN SCIENCE; Joshua Daniel Drew, ASSOCIATE IN SCIENCE; Amber Lea Farnham, ASSOCIATE IN ARTS; Charles Patrick Fischbach, ASSOCIATE IN SCIENCE; Stella F. Fortney, ASSOCIATE IN APPLIED SCIENCE, CERTIFICATE; Yolanda Fowler, CERTIFICATE; Jennifer Lynn Freeman, ASSOCIATE IN ARTS; Kathrine Sue Gillen, ASSOCIATE IN SCIENCE; Nora J. Gilman, ASSOCIATE IN SCIENCE; Rachel Elizabeth Gilman, ASSOCIATE IN APPLIED SCIENCE; Joseph Michael Gonzalez, ASSOCIATE IN SCIENCE; Tiffani Marie Heintzelman, CERTIFICATE; Zachary Michael Holmes, ASSOCIATE IN SCIENCE; Joshua Raymond Johnson, ASSOCIATE IN ARTS; Jennifer Leanne Lewallen, ASSOCIATE IN ARTS; Colony Elise Linville, ASSOCIATE IN SCIENCE; Steven James Magana, CERTIFICATE; Elizabeth A. Maxwell, ASSOCIATE IN APPLIED SCIENCE; Katheryn Jo May, ASSOCIATE IN APPLIED SCIENCE; Michael J. McCombs, CERTIFICATE; Hannah Rose Megill, ASSOCIATE IN ARTS; Jennifer L. Nusbaum, CERTIFICATE; Jesamieh Cosin Olson, CERTIFICATE; Antwan Lashawn Peacock, two CERTIFICATES; Javier Pineda, ASSOCIATE IN APPLIED SCIENCE; Colt Shelby Preston, ASSOCIATE IN SCIENCE; Shanda Marie Pyron, CERTIFICATE; Elizabeth Church Reed, ASSOCIATE IN APPLIED SCIENCE; Margaret May Reed, CERTIFICATE; Shannon E. Reiley, ASSOCIATE IN APPLIED SCIENCE; Marla Jean Rhodes, ASSOCIATE IN APPLIED SCIENCE; Estela Sagal, ASSOCIATE IN APPLIED SCIENCE; Tracy Ann Salas, ASSOCIATE IN ARTS; Phillip Eugene Shipley, ASSOCIATE IN SCIENCE; Dora Danielle Slothower, ASSOCIATE IN SCIENCE; Jessica Jean Stern, CERTIFICATE; Antonio C. Tablante, CERTIFICATE; Raul Marquez Trujillo, ASSOCIATE IN SCIENCE; Paul A. Urrutia, CERTIFICATE; Jason VanMeter, ASSOCIATE IN APPLIED SCIENCE; Sasha J. Vasquez, ASSOCIATE IN SCIENCE; Kelly Lee Wallingford, ASSOCIATE IN APPLIED SCIENCE; Shawna Renne Winstead, ASSOCIATE IN APPLIED SCIENCE, CERTIFICATE; and Eric H. Zigler, ASSOCIATE IN LIBERAL STUDIES.

SUBLETTE: Brian D. Ketcham, CERTIFICATE; and Andrew Roemmich Schultz, ASSOCIATE IN SCIENCE.

TAMPICO: Anita M. Sigel-Smith, CERTIFICATE.

TISKILWA: Jacob A. Foster, ASSOCIATE IN APPLIED SCIENCE.

WALNUT: Nicholas Brian Davis, ASSOCIATE IN SCIENCE; Rachel Christine Davis, ASSOCIATE IN SCIENCE; Sondra G. Heidenreich, ASSOCIATE IN APPLIED SCIENCE; Jessie Rae Huseman, ASSOCIATE IN APPLIED SCIENCE, CERTIFICATE; Sarah Ann Kriz, ASSOCIATE IN SCIENCE; Dustin L. Skaggs, ASSOCIATE IN SCIENCE; and Levi Siegfried Veil, CERTIFICATE.

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Sauk’s Dual Credit Program Offers Students Best of Both Worlds

Area high school juniors and seniors have the chance to get the best of both worlds with Sauk Valley Community College’s Dual Credit Program.

A unique opportunity for students to begin their college education while still in high school, and one of the most cost-effective options for parents, more than 700 area high school students took advantage of Sauk’s Dual Credit Program last semester.

“This is definite ‘win-win’ situation for students and parents,” explained Cathy Dorathy, Sauk’s coordinator of high school relations. “For a student to be able to jump start his or her college education while still in high school, and, have parents benefit from such a big value toward their child’s college tuition at the same time is incredible.”

By taking specific college-level classes offered through Sauk, high school students can simultaneously earn high school credits to graduate and college credits at Sauk. What’s more, students can take dual credit classes either on campus at Sauk, on campus at their high school, via two-way distance learning through Sauk or online via their home or school computer.

Any high school student may apply if he or she has completed his or her sophomore year, is at least 16 years old, and obtains consent from his or her high school. To register each student must complete an SVCC Student Information Form, and, with the help of a high school counselor and parent(s) or guardian, a High School Dual Enrollment Application. The student must also obtain copies of high school transcripts, and ACT scores. Then, student takes all completed forms, transcripts, and scores and registers with Sauk’s Office of High School Relations.

Dorathy also encourages students to talk with their parents and high school counselors about which classes they should take.

“Now is the perfect time for juniors, seniors, and their parents to discuss dual credit opportunities with their children that are in high school,” said Dorathy, who added that SVCC grants are available to students and their families to help with tuition. These grants are used for college-level courses only.

For more information, interested students and/or parents can contact Cathy Dorathy in Sauk’s Office of High School Relations at 815/288-5511, ext. 266, or e-mail: dorathc@svcc.edu. Students and/or parents may also contact their high school counselor.

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Sauk to Offer Off-Campus Summer GED Classes

Sauk Valley Community College will offer GED classes (General Educational Development) off campus at locations in Dixon, Rock Falls, and Sterling. The classes, which will run June 8 through July 28, are open entry so students may register anytime during the semester. Class offerings include:

Dixon

Church of the Brethren, 215 N. Court, 9 to 11:45 a.m., Tuesdays and Thursdays, June 8 through July 28. Instructor: Sharon Lilly.
Dixon Public Library, 221 S. Hennepin Ave., 4:30 to 7:15 p.m., Tuesdays and Thursdays, June 8 through July 28. Instructor: Lois Porter.

Rock Falls

Rock Falls Middle School, 1701 12th Ave., 9 to 11:45 a.m., Mondays and Wednesdays, June 8 through July 28. Instructor: Pam Meyers.

Sterling

YWCA of the Sauk Valley, 412 First Ave., 9 to 11:45 a.m., Mondays and Wednesdays, June 8 through July 28. Instructor: Paul Miller.

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Sauk Grad Receives Prestigious SIU Theater Award

Anna Wilcoxen, a Sauk Valley Community College graduate, was recently awarded Southern Illinois University’s Tekla Story Award. This is the highest honor an undergraduate can obtain through the Southern Illinois University’s Performance Studies program.

The Tekla Story Award signifies the one student that has demonstrated the most outstanding scholarship and performance work throughout the academic year. Wilcoxen received the award after the final performance hour for the year in SIU’s Kleinau Theatre. Dr. Elyse Pineau, professor of performance studies at SIU, presented Wilcoxen with the award and noted the quality tradition of performance work that has carried over from Sauk Valley Community College.

“Anna Wilcoxen, you represent the best of us," Dr. Pineau told the audience.

Wilcoxen (pictured at left at SIU), of Walnut, graduated from Sauk in 2007 with an Associate in Arts with an emphasis in theater. She was one of Sauk’s theater department’s top theatre students with major roles in The Lost Skeleton of Cadavra, Cabaret, Boneschnitzel: The Musical, and 30 Plays in 60 Minutes.

Jason Hedrick, Sauk’s director of theater, is himself a 1997 recipient of the Tekla Story Award. He said he was thrilled to see another former Sauk student recognized.

“It is an outstanding moment for not only me, but for our theater program and College to see a successful former student such as Anna receive this prestigious award 12 years later,” said Hedrick.

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SVCC Grad Padilla Named Coca-Cola Scholarship Finalist

A Sauk Valley Community College graduate who returned to earn another degree at Sauk was recently honored as a 2009 Coca-Cola National Finalist as part of the All-USA Academic Team competition.

Joanie Padilla of Rock Falls was awarded a check for $1,000 through the Coca-Cola Scholars Foundation. Her selection as a Coca-Cola Finalist was based on scores earned in the All-USA Academic Team competition. This program, sponsored by the Coca-Cola Scholars Foundation, is administered by Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society (PTK), the national honor society for two-year colleges.

“Education is a life-long endeavor and Joanie has demonstrated that beautifully through her achievement as a Coca-Cola national finalist,” said SVCC President Dr. George Mihel. “She is a sparkling example of an adult that has taken advantage of Sauk’s resources not once, but twice to prepare for a career.”

Padilla graduated May 15th with an Associate in Science. She plans to transfer to Northern Illinois University to major in public health with an emphasis in health promotion. Padilla says she is interested in combating obesity, diabetes and its competitions, and researching bioterrorism. Padilla, who retired after 20 years as a radiologic technologist, graduated with an Associate in Applied Science in Radiologic Technology from Sauk in 1985.

A member of Sauk’s chapter of PTK, Padilla carries a 3.57 GPA and was also active in Sauk’s AmeriCorps program. She is a disaster volunteer with the Whiteside County Health Department, is past president of District 16 of the Illinois State Society of Radiologic Technologists, and is a recipient of NIU’s Centennial Scholarship.

Padilla says both of her experiences at Sauk were good, and, because Sauk is so cost-efficient, it will help her to defer more costs for her future endeavors at NIU. Padilla and her husband Javier have seven children and four grandchildren.

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Watch the Health Careers Pinning and Commencement ceremonies!

You can view the SVCC Health Careers Pinning and Commencement ceremonies on the web. Just click the appropriate link below.

Health Careers Pinning Ceremony Video

SVCC Commencement Ceremony Video

Both ceremonies will also be videotaped and can be purchased in either DVD or VHS format. Copies can be purchased for $10. for the first copy and $5. for each additional copy. To request copies, call the SVCC Instructional Technology Department at 815.835.6229.

Tuition Payment for Summer 2009 due May 18

Students registered for the Summer, 2009 semester must have their tuition paid by Monday May 18th. The Business Office will be open until 7:00 P.M. for their convenience.

Sauk’s AmeriCorps to Present ‘Family Movie Night’ at Historic Dixon Theater

Sauk's AmeriCorps to Present 'Family Movie Night' at Historic Dixon Theater

Sauk Valley Community College's AmeriCorps program will host Family Movie Night with the award winning film Shrek, on Saturday, May 16, at the Historic Dixon Theater, 114 S. Galena Ave. in Dixon.

Admission is $3 per person or $2 per person if a canned good is brought for donation to the AmeriCorps' Food/Troop Drive to benefit area food pantries and the Sterling-Rock Falls Armory.

The event is the highlight of a week-long series of community service events completed by the 61 members from Sauk's AmeriCorps program as part of National Service Week. AmeriCorps members have also visited local nursing homes to deliver Mother's Day cards and flowers, helped the American Red Cross at Dixon High School, sponsored a plant sale at Kreider Center in Dixon; planted flowers at Kreider Center Group Homes, presented a program on AmeriCorps at Sterling Christian School, met with area high school students on AmeriCorps opportunities, led an Adopt-A-Highway cleanup along Illinois route 2 in front of SVCC, and planted flowers at Dillon School in Sterling.

ABC AmeriCorps, a national service program sponsored by SVCC, serves Lee, Whiteside, Carroll, Ogle, DeKalb, Bureau, LaSalle, Livingston, Henry, and Rock Island Counties. ABC AmeriCorps members work with children, youth and families in education programs and community-based agencies to increase academic and life skills. They also participate in environmental, public safety, homeland security, and other human service needs projects.

For more information, call Sauk's AmeriCorps program at 815/288-5511, ext. 313.

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SVCC to Hold Commencement Exercises on May 15

More than 100 Sauk Valley Community College graduates will participate in the College’s annual Commencement exercises at 7 p.m. on Friday, May 15, in the Gymnasium.

The degrees of Associate in Arts, Associate in Science, Associate in Applied Science, Associate in Liberal Studies, Associate in Engineering Science, Associate in Fine Arts and Certificates will be awarded. For the 2008-09 academic year, Sauk will have awarded 269 degrees and 262 certificates to 531 graduates.

In addition, the College’s 2009 Outstanding Alumnus/Alumna Award will also be presented.

Rep. Jerry Mitchell will be the keynote speaker. Mitchell, who has been in the Illinois legislature since 1995, has served on committees that included Elementary & Secondary Education, Appropriations-Elementary & Secondary Education, Veterans Affairs, Public Policy and Accountability for Education, and Railroad Industry. His selfless dedication to constituents of the Sauk Valley has earned him countless awards from state and local professional, agricultural, educational and social service organizations.

Prior to entering state government, Mitchell had a distinguished career in education as a teacher, coach, physical education director, Title I director, principal, and superintendent. He holds a Master of Science in Educational Administration from Illinois State University, a Bachelor of Science from Eureka College, and an Education Specialist post-master’s degree from Western Illinois University. A U.S. Marine Corps veteran, Mitchell and his wife Jan have three children and three grandchildren.

In addition, Sauk graduates Amanda Michel and Michael “Jake” Beck, will each speak.

Amanda Michel will graduate with two degrees - an Associate Degree in Nursing and an Associate in Liberal Arts. Michel, a native of Janesville, Wisconsin, was very active at Sauk, balancing school and work with raising her three sons. As a member of the College’s Single Parent Association, Amanda served as treasurer and two terms as president. As a work study in the counseling office, she participated in Discover Sauk programs and served on several job search committees. While at Sauk. Michel received the American Legion 40 & 8 Scholarship, the SVCC Health Careers Scholarship, SVCC’s Single Parent Grant Award, and Student Support Services Foundation Award. She plans to pursue a career in nursing.

Michael "Jake" Beck will graduate with an Associate in Arts and transfer to Southern Illinois University – Carbondale to major in Speech Communication with a specialization in Performance Studies. A 2005 graduate of Rock Falls High School, Jake attended a vocational college in the Chicago suburbs. Unsatisfied with that, he moved back to Sterling in 2006 and enrolled at Sauk. He became interested in theatre and the rest is history. Jake has given audiences some memorable roles in Sauk theater productions as Renfield in Dracula, Smirnov in The Bear, Petruchio in The Taming of the Shrew, and Major Major in Catch-22. Jake has also collaborated with other students on Jason Hedrick's adaptations of Students and The Euphio Question.