Laker Nation News

Lake Land College presented the Non-traditional Student of the Year Award to Gertie Schrock, Tuscola, during a ceremony on Thursday, Nov. 7. Schrock was among 11 students who were recognized for their perseverance and outstanding determination in pursuing their academic goals.

The nominees were: Jessica Jones, Tuscola; Jean Michael Rincon Rojas, Columbia; Kelly Richardson, Charleston; Eric Stanley, Charleston; Corinne Coad, Toledo; Lacey Crawley, Mattoon; Darin Miller, Shelbyville; Tamara Beck, Stewardson; Glen Sharpmack, East Alton; and Robert Shoraga, Mattoon.

“The individuals we honor this evening are a special group of students. We know their journeys have been full of obstacles, and yet, as they come to class every day ready to learn with smiles on their faces, you would never guess the hardships they’ve overcome to be here today,” said Kelly Allee, Director of Marketing and Public Relations. “With resilience and determination, they inspire their peers and instructors. They all are shining examples of what it means to be Lakers.”

Gertie Schrock is a non-traditional student from Tuscola. Growing up in the Amish community, she was taught German as her first language and was not afforded the opportunity to earn a high school diploma. As an adult, she enrolled in Lake Land’s Adult Education program to earn her GED along with her daughter. She completed her GED and currently studies in Lake Land’s BNA program to fulfill her dream of becoming a CNA.

Schrock was nominated by Adult Education Transition Coordinator Mariah White-Landrus. In the nomination form, White-Landrus said, “You could not ask to have a better student than Gertie. She stands as a beacon of strength to those who are lucky enough to know her.”

Jessica Jones is a non-traditional student from Tuscola and attends Lake Land to pursue her dream of working in archeology. She balances her college studies with two jobs, demonstrating great determination to complete her degree. After graduating from Lake Land, she plans to transfer to a university to continue pursuing her archeological studies.

Jones was nominated by Director of TRIO Programs Lori Ohnesorge. In the nomination form, Ohnesorge said, “Jessica is a very humble person with grounded values. She is thankful for all the opportunities that Lake Land College has provided to her.”

Jean Michael Rincon Rojas is a non-traditional, international student from Columbia. He came to Lake Land College to improve his English skills and prepare for his ultimate goal of earning a master’s degree in agriculture. He is always upbeat and positive as he navigates a foreign culture and is driven to succeed in his classes. Recently, he excelled as a research intern in plant breeding for Ag Alumni Seed Improvement in Lafayette, Indiana.

Allee nominated Rojas for the honor. In the nomination form, she said, “Jean is a very caring person with a lot of ambition and goals. He absorbs information from all his experiences, and I am confident he will be an excellent leader when provided with the opportunity.”

Kelly Richardson is a non-traditional student from Charleston who is studying in Lake Land’s nursing program. She is dedicated to her studies and balances her time between work, school and raising a family. She is driven to excel and shows incredible integrity and compassion for others in all that she does.

Richardson was nominated by Library Cataloging/Acquisitions Assistant Kathryn Helmink. In the nomination form, Helmink said, “It is admirable to see Kelly finding her way and becoming successful as a non-traditional student through the different challenges and barriers.”

Eric Stanley is a non-traditional student from Charleston who is studying biology. He initially faced uncertainty about how to fit in as a non-traditional college student, but he was quickly grown to excel at Lake Land and stands out as a leader among his peers. He serves as a TRIO ambassador, is active in the Alternative Education Club and has maintained a strong GPA.

Stanley was nominated by Director of Student Success Services Kim Hunter. In the nomination form, Hunter said, “Eric is kind, helpful and ready to help folks out. He is everything we want a standout of the Laker community to be.”

Corinne Coad is a non-traditional student from Toledo who balances her studies with her responsibilities as a single mother. She is a first-generation college student and has worked diligently, maintaining strong grades throughout her time in both the practical nurse and registered nurse programs. She leads other students in classroom exercises and group work, always willing to assist other students in the class.

Coad was nominated by Nursing Instructors Nichole Jones and Karla Hardiek. In the nomination form, they said, “Corinne is a model student. She works hard and uses her resources well, and it shows in her grades. She is humble, kind and focused. She empathizes with her fellow classmates and patients.”

Lacey Crawley is a non-traditional student from Mattoon who balances her studies with her employment at both LIFT and The Learning Zone. She is also a dedicated mother, and has shown great resilience in balancing all of life’s responsibilities. She is a leader among her peers and a willing volunteer in the campus community, consistently lending a hand to others and always ready to offer help when needed.

Crawley was nominated by Director of Student Life Lisa Shumard-Shelton and Early Childhood Education Instructor Tanille Ulm. In the nomination form, Shumard-Shelton said, “With a willingness to face new challenges, Lacey inspires those around her to do the same. Her unique insights, shaped by her personal and professional experiences, contribute to enriching class discussions and group dynamics, further highlighting her leadership potential.”

Darin Miller is a non-traditional student from who comes to Lake Land after working for more than two decades at Graphic Packaging in Shelbyville. He manages his studies along with his role as a father, as he and his wife have adopted multiple children. He brings a fresh perspective to the classroom with his years of workforce experience and often steps up to lead group projects. At Lake Land, he studies Agriculture Business and Supply and serves as a motivating example to the younger students around him.

Miller was nominated by Shumard-Shelton and Agronomy Instructor Christian Kessler. In the nomination form, Kessler said, “Darin is an exemplary student that anyone on campus can look up to and utilize as a role model. He truly embodies all traits that make leaders effective and fair. He always has a smile on his face and is determined to succeed to matter what life throws at him.”

Tamara Beck is a non-traditional student from Stewardson. A single mom of four, she earned her GED in 2023 and is currently pursuing her dream of becoming a nurse. Tamara always gives back to others, volunteering to support her daughter’s softball team and providing care to others by working in a nursing home. She gives full effort in everything she does and always maintains a positive attitude.

Beck was nominated by Perkins Specialist Joy Kaurin. In the nomination form, Kaurin said, “In continuing to pursue her education, Tamara is showing her children that anything is possible. Truly, her potential is limitless because of her determination to continue to pursue her education, even when it’s difficult.”

Glen Sharpmack is a non-traditional student from East Alton. He is pursuing a degree in business while also maintaining a full-time job and serving as a dedicated husband, father and grandfather. He entered the workforce at just 18 years old back in 1985 and always prioritized his children’s needs over his own interests. By attending Lake Land now at 56 years old, he is pursuing a lifelong dream of earning a degree. Sharpmack is an inspiration to others through his hard work and commitment to personal growth.

Sharpmack was nominated by his daughter, Bailey Cole, Foundation Awards & Corporate Relations Coordinator, and his son-in-law, Dylan Cole, Assistant Comptroller & Purchasing Coordinator. In the nomination form, Bailey said, “Glen sets a strong example of what a non-traditional student can achieve if they put their mind to it. I am so proud of him and the role model he has been, teaching us to work hard, to be grateful and prioritize family.”

Robert Shoraga is a non-traditional student from Mattoon and is pursuing a degree in broadcast communication. With his age and background in the U.S. Navy, he brings a wealth of experience and a unique perspective to his studies. He helps his peers through his leadership, character and ability to connect with his others. He also sets an example to future generations with his determination and passion for learning.

Shoraga was nominated by his daughter, Constance Rickey, Nursing Instructor. In the nomination form, Rickey said, “Not only is Robert an inspiration, he is the best dad and grandpa anyone could ask for. He embodies the spirit of perseverance and lifelong learning, proving that it is never too late to pursue one’s dream.”

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The Lake Land College Clay Target Shooting team was named the National Trap Shooting Champion Runner-Up Team at the USA College Clay Target Nationals.

Multiple Lakers also received individual honors during the event. Jaxson Wilson, Newton, was named National Individual Champion with a score of 197/200. Wilson also placed first in the High Silver Male Category. Brandon Himes, Toledo, placed second in the High Gold Male Category with a score of 194/200.

The Lake Land Clay Target Shooting team was added to the College’s athletic lineup in Fall 2023. In just its second year of competition, the team impressed against the 18 colleges and universities across the nation that participated in nationals tournament.

“I am very proud of our team’s accomplishment. Being just our second year as an athletic program on campus, this achievement definitely sets the bar high for future years,” Clay Target Shooting Head Coach Josh Fulk said. “Coming in second at Nationals to a program that is well known in the trapshooting community with years of history is definitely a huge accomplishment. I look forward to the future and what we will accomplish.”

The 2024-2025 Lake Land College Clay Target Shooting team consists of the following students:

To learn more about the Lake Land College Clay and Trap Shooting team, contact Fulk at 217-234-5073 or jfulk@lakelandcollege.edu.

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Lake Land College received a grant of $130,000 to provide free Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) training and testing for up to 30 U.S. military Veterans and active service members, as well as their spouses and dependent children.

The funding is provided by the U.S. Department of Transportation’s Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) through a Commercial Vehicle Operator Safety Training Grant (CVMOST). Lake Land College is the only community college in the state of Illinois to receive the grant.

“At FMCSA, our job is all about safety. That includes safety of the roadways and safety of our nation’s commercial motor vehicle drivers,” said FMCSA Deputy Administrator Vinn White. “So we are proud to make this funding available, and we’re committed to working with the awardees to put it to good use, making it easier for drivers to enter into and stay in the CMV industry.”

The grant will cover the costs of CDL completion or license upgrade for up to 30 students, including course tuition and all fees for permits, background checks and hazmat checks. Classes for the CDL program at Lake Land College start every two weeks and take just six weeks to complete, providing students with a rapid pathway to a high-demand career in transportation.

“We’re thrilled to be able to offer this opportunity to our local Veterans and active service members,” Lake Land College President Josh Bullock said. “We’re very thankful for their service to our country, and we hope to see many capitalize on this unique opportunity to jumpstart a rewarding career for minimal cost.”

To learn more about the Lake Land College CDL program, contact Transportation Training Coordinator Justin Onigkeit at 217-238-8239 or jonigkeit@lakelandcollege.edu.

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Lake Land College hosted a Día de los Muertos celebration on Friday, November 1 in the Luther Student Center. During the event, students, staff and local community members enjoyed traditional food, activities, an ofrenda and a showing of the movie “Coco.”

Día de los Muertos, commonly known as “Day of the Dead,” is widely observed in Mexico from Nov. 1-2. The holiday includes the creation of ofrendas, which families use to honor deceased loved ones with photos, flowers and the favorite food and drinks of the departed.

“We hosted a similar event last year and had great success, so we were thrilled to celebrate Día de los Muertos on campus again this year,” said Mercury Bowen, Coordinator of Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Belonging. “It’s an incredible way to help some of our international students feel welcomed and included, while allowing other students to experience a new culture maybe for the first time.”

The Día de los Muertos celebration is just one of many initiatives Lake Land College has taken to uphold an inclusive campus culture. More information about these ongoing events is available on the Lake Land College website at LakeLandCollege.edu/celebrations/.

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The Lake Land College mascot Laker Louie is featured in a brand-new children’s book, “Cheers for Laker Louie.”

Written by Director of Student Life Lisa Shumard-Shelton and illustrated by Business Adjunct Brett Sawyer, the book follows Laker Louie as he tries out for various Lake Land College athletic teams.

“Cheers for Laker Louie” is a follow-up to last year’s “High Fives for Laker Louie,” which was also written and illustrated by Shumard-Shelton and Sawyer respectively. Both books are available to purchase online or in-person at the Laker Nest Bookstore, and all profits are donated to the Lake Land College Foundation student scholarship fund.

“It was so much fun making the first book and seeing all the positive responses to it, so I knew I definitely wanted to continue Laker Louie’s story,” Shumard-Shelton said. “The books are a great way to help young children see the benefits of college, and I’m thrilled that all sales of this new book are again supporting our students through scholarships.”

To purchase a copy of “Cheers for Laker Louie,” visit the Lake Land College Laker Next Bookstore website at https://bookstore.lakelandcollege.edu/default.asp.

Schools, libraries and other’s children’s groups can also request a reading of “High Fives for Laker Louie” or the newly-released “Cheers for Laker Louie” by contacting Lake Land College Student Life at studentlife@lakelandcollege.edu.

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Every year, Lake Land College students enroll in healthcare programs and complete high-demand credentials with the support of a statewide grant known as the Pipeline for Advancement of the Healthcare Workforce (PATH).

The PATH grant was created to address shortages in the healthcare workforce by creating, supporting and expanding opportunities for students in nursing and select healthcare pathways in Illinois. Support opportunities include tuition reimbursement, tutoring services and cost assistance for lab equipment and licensure fees. PATH support is available to Lake Land College students entering or advancing their healthcare careers through the following programs: Associate Degree Nurse, Practical Nursing, Registered Nurse, LPN-ADN Bridge, Basic Nursing Assistant, Emergency Medical Services, Emergency Medical Technician and Paramedical Services.

Since its creation, the PATH program has successfully expanded healthcare training opportunities and the overall healthcare workforce in Illinois. In Fiscal Year (FY) 2023 more than 27,600 students enrolled in Illinois community colleges under the PATH grant, 45% of which were first-generation college students, and more than 15,500 completed their programs. In this same timeframe, Lake Land College enrolled 643 students under the grant and saw 437 PATH students obtain their licenses and secure healthcare employment.

Magon Germscheid, one of the many Lake Land students currently receiving PATH support, came to the College to pursue her dream of nursing and help her husband support their six children. She is currently enrolled in Lake Land’s Registered Nurse (RN) program and plans to continue her education to earn a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree. For Germscheid, The PATH grant has helped alleviate financial constraints by covering costs of tuition, books and lab equipment.

“I am grateful for the PATH team and their assistance,” Germscheid said. “When I started back to school, my top prayer was that it would not be a financial burden on our family. The PATH grant and tuition reimbursement has helped make that a reality.”

Germscheid is completing her clinical training in the nursing program at HSHS St. Anthony’s Hospital in Effingham.

HSHS St. Anthony’s Memorial Hospital shares Lake Land College’s commitment to develop a highly skilled healthcare workforce from within our communities. By strengthening the educational pathways to success through the PATH Grant, we are expanding opportunities for individuals to advance in their careers and provide valuable contributions to the mission of providing quality care to our patients, said Anthony Powers, Chief Administrative Officer of HSHS St. Anthony’s Memorial Hospital in Effingham and HSHS Good Shephard Hospital in Shelbyville.

With PATH support, Illinois community colleges have also expanded training and employment opportunities with partnerships throughout the state. Since the grant’s creation, Illinois community colleges have engaged with 1,032 healthcare employers, successfully developed 27 new healthcare education programs and expanded 74 others. During this time, Lake Land College has developed one new healthcare program, expanded two others and has partnered with 42 local employers to create opportunities for student clinicals.

“Sarah Bush Lincoln is proud to partner with Lake Land College to strengthen our communities by creating new educational and career opportunities from within. As an organization we have seen the positive impact the PATH grant has had in developing a highly skilled workforce in high demand healthcare fields,” Sarah Bush Lincoln President and CEO Kim Uphoff said.

For more information about the PATH grant at Lake Land College, contact PATH Grant Manager Amanda Dickens-Montgomery at 217-234-5202 or adickensmontgomery@lakelandcollege.edu.

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Lake Land College is celebrating National Apprenticeship Week on Tuesday, Nov. 19 with an event for apprentices, apprentice alumni and business partners. The event will be held from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. in the Foundation and Alumni Center on the Lake Land College campus, 5001 Lake Land Blvd., Mattoon.

The celebration is a luncheon event that includes a declaration of National Apprenticeship Week, a keynote address and celebratory signings for all new apprentices. Courtney Yockey, President and CEO of the Effingham Regional Growth Alliance, will provide the keynote address. All apprentices who have enrolled at Lake Land College since November of 2023 will be honored with celebratory signings during the event.

“Apprenticeships play such a crucial role in our communities, strengthening employers and employees throughout our economic region,” said Bonnie Moore, Director to the Center for Business and Industry. “We’re thrilled to be able to celebrate apprenticeship as a whole and recognize so many incredible individuals who are excelling in these programs.”

Catered lunch will be provided at the event for all in attendance. Those interested in attending should RSVP by contacting Moore at 217-238-8260 or bmoore71258@lakelandcollege.edu. Seating is limited and available on a first-come, first-served basis.

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Lake Land College is celebrating Veterans Appreciation Month by recognizing and honoring local Veterans throughout the month of November.

During the week of Nov. 4-8, all Veterans throughout the Lake Land community are invited to add a photo from their time of service to a display in the Luther Student Center. Family members and friends are also invited to display a photo of a loved one who served. Picture frames and information cards will be provided. All photos can be picked up at the end of the week.

On Wednesday, Nov. 6, Lake Land will hold a Veterans Ceremony for all staff and student Veterans from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. The event will begin with a Laying of the Wreath Ceremony and short program at the Veterans Wall in Podesta Park on Lake Land’s campus. The event will then continue in the Luther Student Center, where the Student Activity Board will provide refreshments and activities for those in attendance.

Students in the Lake Land College Dental Hygiene program will offer free dental cleanings and x-rays to veterans through the entire month of November for Veterans Appreciation Month. Appointments are available on Monday and Tuesday at 12:30 p.m., and Wednesday and Thursday at 12 p.m. Each appointment is 3.5 hours and will be held in the Dental Hygiene Clinic in room 116 of the Northwest Building on the Lake Land College campus, 5001 Lake Land Blvd., Mattoon. To schedule an appointment, contact the clinic at 217-234-5249.

Students in Lake Land’s cosmetology program will also be offering free haircuts to all veterans and active-duty military personnel during the week of Nov. 11-15. Free haircuts are available by appointment on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Fridays from 10:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. Appointments can be made by contacting the cosmetology department at 217-234-5300. The haircuts will take place in the Cosmetology Clinic in the West Building on the Lake Land College campus in Mattoon.

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The Lake Land College Foundation recognized the 2024 Foundation and Alumni Award recipients at a reception on Thursday, Oct. 24.

Individuals and organizations alike were recognized during the reception for going above and beyond in their support of the Lake Land College Foundation. The following 2024 Foundation Awards were presented during the event: the Outstanding Volunteer Organization Award, the Outstanding Volunteer Fundraiser Award and the Crystal Swan Award.

The Outstanding Volunteer Organization Award was presented to First Mid Bank & Trust in recognition of sustained financial support and dedication to the Lake Land College student experience.

Mike Sullivan, Mattoon, received the Outstanding Volunteer Fundraiser Award for the generous sharing of time and talent to secure private funding on behalf of Lake Land College students.

Madge Shoot, Mattoon, received the Crystal Swan Award. The Crystal Swan Award is presented annually to a Lake Land College Foundation Board Member who has gone above and beyond in service to the College.

“We extend our congratulations to the 2024 Foundation Award recipients,” said Christina Donsbach, Executive Director for College Advancement. “It is an honor to recognize their generosity and commitment to impacting the future of the College and the lives of our students.”

During the reception, several additional awards were presented to Lake Land College Alumni and community members in recognition of their service and personal achievement. Justin Pals, Effingham, received The Distinguished Alumnus/Alumnus Achievement Award in recognition of his outstanding professional accomplishments as a Lake Land College alumnus.

The Pacesetter Award was presented to Kiersten Edgar, Athens, for her accomplishments as a recent Illinois community college graduate.

Three Lake Land alumni were inducted into the Lake Land College Distinguished Alumni Society: Kristen Dolan, Mattoon; Valerie Lynch, Pana and Abigail Donaldson, Statesboro, Georgia. The Distinguished Alumni Society recognizes alumni who have utilized the Lake Land experience to make an imprint on their professions and communities.

Three former Lake Land employees were also inducted into the Lake Land College Retiree Wall of Fame for their outstanding achievements in service of the College. Randy Ervin and Lana Fuller of Mattoon were both honored during the ceremony as 2024 inductees, and Barbara Arthur was inducted posthumously.

Three board members, Denise Bence, Renee Huckstead and Blake Pierce, were also recognized during the reception, as their terms concluded in 2024.

“I would like to thank our outgoing board members for generously sharing their time and talents throughout their service,” Donsbach said. “The recent growth and success we’ve seen from the Foundation is due in no small part to their efforts and devotion to our mission.”

The 2025 Foundation Board slate of officers is comprised of President Larry Blackerby, Vice President Tom White and Secretary Amanda Martin.

For information on the Lake Land College Foundation, visit the Lake Land College Foundation website at LakeLandCollege.edu/foundation/.

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Lake Land College will be visiting local coffee shops throughout November for “Coffee and College Chat” to help community members through the admission and registration process.

The events will be hosted at three alumni-owned coffee shops: Casey Coffee Company of Casey, Coffee and Creams of Toledo and Joe Sippers of Effingham.

During each event, Lake Land College Enrollment Specialists will be available to answer questions regarding college admission, scholarships and class registration for the Spring and Fall 2025 semesters. Those who attend and ask questions will also receive a voucher for a free coffee from the host location.

“We’re excited to connect with the community in a way that is both fun and informative,” said Pam Hartke, Associate Dean of Recruitment & Enrollment Management. “It’s even more special when you consider that the three participating coffee shops are all alumni-owned, which makes for an awesome connection between past and future Lakers.”

The Lake Land College “Coffee and College Chat” schedule is as follows:

To learn more, contact Enrollment Specialists Holly Ferren at 217-238-2719 or holson@lakelandcollege.edu or Rachel Ervin at 217-238-2704 or rervin2401@lakelandcollege.edu.