Published on October 8, 2026

On Thursday, October 8, Lake Land College dedicated its new entrance plaza in posthumous honor of alumnus and former Board of Trustee member Mike Sullivan. During the ceremony, the area was officially named the Sullivan Plaza in his memory.

Speaking at the ceremony, Lake Land College President Josh Bullock personally attested to Sullivan’s unwavering devotion and his lifelong passion for Lake Land. Following his service in the U.S. Navy during the Vietnam era, Sullivan enrolled at Lake Land College in 1968 and quickly made an impact as Lake Land’s second-ever Student Government President. He continued his service long after graduating, returning to the College in 1987 as a member of the Board of Trustees. In the ensuing decades, Sullivan led with a student and community-first approach and was a driving force behind major campus advancements, including renewable energy initiatives that continue to save approximately $500,000 per year. His most personal and cherished projects included Alumni Park, the Veteran’s Wall Memorial and its accompanying Granite Flag.

In February 2024, Sullivan resigned from the Board of Trustees after 37 years, making him the longest-tenured Board Member in Lake Land College history. He passed away the following year at age 77 in his hometown of Mattoon.

“Today, we officially name this space the Sullivan Plaza, honoring Mike’s years of devoted service to our students, our college and our community,” Bullock said during the ceremony. “We hope that this plaza, with our prestigious College seal and mission statement prominently displayed, serves as a symbol for those who follow in the footsteps of Mike Sullivan as Lake Land College students, graduates and alumni.”

In addition to the dedication of the plaza, Sullivan was honored during the ceremony by being named a posthumous recipient of the Clem G. Phipps Exemplary Trustee Award, presented to former trustees for outstanding leadership and dedication to the Lake Land College community. Bullock and Board of Trustees Chair Tom Wright presented the award to Sullivan’s wife Linda and their two children, Beth and Ben.

“Mike’s devotion to supporting students was evident in everything he did,” Wright said. “It is because of Mike’s long history of service and dedication that we are pleased to name this plaza in his honor, as well as posthumously recognize him with the Clem G. Phipps Exemplary Trustee Award.”

Following the award presentation, Sullivan’s niece and Lake Land College Print and Mail Services Supervisor Amanda Latch shared remarks on behalf of the Sullivan family, highlighting her uncle’s enduring impact on the College.

“This plaza, as the main entrance to campus, feels like a welcoming hug from Uncle Mike to all who pass through,” Latch said. “He wanted everyone at Lake Land to feel like family, and his warmth, kindness and spirit will continue to welcome all who enter.”

The Lake Land College Sullivan Plaza is located in front of Neal Hall on the east side of campus. The landmark is visible from highway 45 and greets visitors as they arrive on campus through the College’s primary entrance. Visitors can now see a newly added memorial sign located in the plaza, which displays a photo of Sullivan and describes his significance to the College.