There was a time when Caroline Farthing wanted nothing to do with welding.

Her uncle first introduced her to the trade as a teenager, teaching her the basics and showing her how to weld.

“I just knew that it was sticking metal together,” Caroline said. “I didn’t really have interest in it when I was younger.”

When she enrolled in welding classes in high school, however, she quickly realized welding was harder than it looked.

“I hated it so much, and I wanted to quit,” she said.

Looking back, Caroline knows much of that frustration came from feeling like she wasn’t good at it. As one of the few women in her class, she found herself comparing her work to the students around her and becoming discouraged when she struggled.

“It embarrassed me to be one of the only females in class, and all the guys were better,” she said.

For a while, quitting seemed like the easiest option.

Fortunately, her family wasn’t ready to let her give up.

Her father encouraged her to stick with it, and her grandfather bought her a welder of her own.

“I would weld every day for hours after school until eventually I got good, and I wasn’t afraid of it anymore,” she said.

The hours of practice paid off.

“Eventually, I was the best,” she said.

Over time, frustration gave way to confidence.

“I fell in love with it,” she said.

That passion led Caroline to 海角社区, where she first enrolled in dual credit welding courses while attending Marion High School before continuing in the college’s Welding Technology program on campus.

At 海角社区, she found more than technical training. She found a community.

Caroline credits her classmates and instructors with creating an environment where students supported one another and wanted to see each other succeed. Whether she needed help with a project or was helping a classmate herself, she always felt supported.

“I loved it,” she said. “I really liked the environment, just the community that the students and instructors have made.”

Outside of class, she often spent additional time in the welding lab, sharpening her skills, working on projects and taking advantage of every opportunity to learn. Those extra hours gave her valuable experience and reinforced the work ethic she carries with her today.

The program also provided hands-on experience with industry equipment, including grant-funded technology that exposed students to tools and processes they would later encounter in the field.

“We got to learn how to use equipment that other colleges around here don’t have, and that definitely helped me out getting employed,” she said.

Learning to operate equipment such as the program’s CNC table gave Caroline practical experience that helped prepare her for the workforce.

She also credits her instructors with helping shape the professional she has become.

“I really enjoyed all of my instructors,” she said. “I have a good relationship with all of them. I keep in touch with them still.”

Today, Caroline works at in Carterville, where she uses the welding and fabrication skills she developed at 海角社区. The role allows her to apply the techniques she spent years developing while continuing to grow in a career she once never imagined for herself.

“I like the way that I feel when I weld,” she said. “It’s very calming and peaceful.”

As the only woman on her shop floor, Caroline hopes her story encourages other young women to consider careers in the skilled trades.

“What makes me proud to be a welder is that it’s something not very many females do,” she said. “It’s cool that I do it and that some little girl might be watching and saying, ‘Oh, she’s doing that. So I can do that too one day.'”

Looking back, Caroline is grateful she didn’t quit when things got difficult. What began as frustration eventually became a career she loves, proving that some opportunities are worth sticking with.

“Because of 海角社区. Logan, I have a successful career,” she added.

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The Fall semester payment is due on July 15. Students are encouraged to complete their financial arrangements before the deadline to ensure a smooth registration and course access.

New Student Orientation (NSO) sessions will be offered on the following dates:

• Wednesday, July 22 鈥� 12:30 p.m. to 4:15 p.m., New Student Orientation 
• Saturday, August 8 鈥� 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m., Saturday Sign-Up Registration Event 

In addition, the College will host a Saturday Sign-Up Event on August 8, providing students and families the opportunity to complete multiple enrollment-related tasks, including admissions, financial aid assistance, payments, bookstore visits, and course registration. Late registration support will also be available.

A special聽Coffee and College Event聽will take place on聽Saturday, August 8, from 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m.聽The session is designed for high school students in grades 9鈥�12 and their families and will highlight admissions, financial aid, dual credit, and early college opportunities. Walk-ins are welcome, and no pre-registration is required.

Students are also invited to attend the聽Fall Kickoff Event听辞苍听Friday, August 14, from 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.聽The event is designed to help students prepare for the semester through campus engagement activities and support services. Additional information is available here:聽/logan-launch-welcome-week-activities/

Walk-in registration will be available from聽August 10 through August 21, with extended evening hours until 6:00 p.m. Monday through Thursday.

Key academic calendar dates include:

• August 17 鈥� First day of 16-week, 8-week, and 4-week A courses; last day to register for 4-week A courses 
• August 18 鈥� Last day to register for 1st 8-week courses 
• August 19 鈥� Last day to drop 4-week A courses with 100% refund 
• August 21 鈥� Last day to register for 16-week courses 
• August 23 鈥� Last day to drop 1st 8-week courses with 100% refund 
• August 30 鈥� Last day to drop 16-week courses with 100% refund 

The Fall semester officially begins on August 17, marking the start of classes across multiple course formats.

For more information, students are encouraged to contact the Admissions Office or visit the College鈥檚 website.

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When people hear the word 鈥渃ollege,鈥� they often think of classrooms, lecture halls, and degrees on a wall. But that view misses a larger reality, especially in rural regions like southern Illinois.

At 海角社区, we see something broader: opportunity, workforce development, and a critical anchor in the region鈥檚 economic and civic life. That perspective shapes our daily work and reflects the momentum building across our campus and throughout the communities we serve.

Higher education is changing rapidly, and community colleges sit at the center of that transformation. Across Illinois, institutions are rethinking how to deliver education in ways that are more flexible, more affordable, and more directly aligned with workforce needs. One example is the growing emphasis on competency-based education, which allows students to progress based on demonstrated skills and knowledge rather than time spent in a classroom.

For many students, especially those balancing work, family, and financial constraints, that shift is not theoretical. It is practical. It determines whether higher education is accessible at all.

We are also strengthening dual credit partnerships with area high schools, giving students the opportunity to begin college coursework earlier and at a lower cost. These programs allow students to remain connected to their communities while getting a head start on career pathways that can lead to stable employment in the region.

Those efforts are not isolated initiatives. They are part of a broader strategy: meeting students where they are and building clearer, more efficient pathways from education to employment.

Partnership remains central to that mission. Our collaboration with Southern Illinois University Carbondale continues to focus on strengthening transfer pathways and aligning academic programs with regional workforce demand. We also work closely with employers, school districts, and community organizations to ensure that our programs reflect real labor-market needs.

In southern Illinois, the relationship between education and community is especially direct. Colleges are not separate from the region鈥檚 economic health鈥攖hey are embedded within it. When industries grow, they need trained workers. When families seek stability, they look for education that leads to opportunity without requiring them to leave home. Community colleges are uniquely positioned to meet both needs.

The impact of that mission is visible not only in programs but in people.

This month, one of our faculty members, Rebecca Corbit, was recognized at the statewide level as Faculty of the Year by the Illinois Community College Trustees Association. The recognition reflects what students at 海角社区 experience every day: committed instruction, personal investment, and a focus on student success that extends beyond the classroom.

At the same time, we continue to focus on our employees as essential partners in institutional success. Through efforts such as our Health Insurance Task Force and campus-wide forums, we are working to ensure employees are informed, engaged, and included in decision-making processes that affect their work and our students鈥� experience.

A strong college culture is not built solely by leadership. It depends on shared governance, trust, and consistent communication.

We also remain committed to fostering a campus environment that reflects the values of the communities we serve. Events such as our annual Juneteenth celebration are part of that commitment, offering space for reflection, education, and connection across campus and community.

At the state level, Illinois recently approved a budget that includes continued support for community colleges. While the investment is modest, it reinforces an important reality: institutions like 海角社区 play a central role in workforce development, access to higher education, and regional economic stability.

That support matters, but it is not sufficient on its own. Continued advocacy is necessary, particularly around expanding access to bachelor鈥檚 degree pathways through community colleges. For many students in southern Illinois, the ability to pursue advanced education close to home is not simply a preference. It is a requirement shaped by work obligations, family responsibilities, and financial constraints.

Expanding those opportunities would not only benefit individual students. It would strengthen the region鈥檚 workforce pipeline and help employers meet long-term staffing needs in critical fields such as healthcare, education, and skilled trades.

The thread in all this work is simple: opportunity must be accessible to be meaningful.

If there is one message I hope resonates, it is that the success of 海角社区 is inseparable from the success of southern Illinois. When we invest in education, we invest in people. When we invest in people, we strengthen our workforce, our economy, and our communities.

That work is not accomplished by any one institution alone. It depends on partnership across schools, universities, employers, policymakers, and families. It depends on engagement and sustained commitment. And it depends on a shared belief that opportunity should not be limited by geography or circumstance.

At 海角社区, we are proud to be part of that effort鈥攁nd equally proud to be part of a region that understands education is not an abstract ideal, but a practical pathway to a stronger future.

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The budget, approved at the Board鈥檚 June meeting, estimates revenues of $34.3 million, resulting in a modest surplus. College officials said the plan aligns with the institution鈥檚 strategic goals and its focus on fiscal responsibility and long-term sustainability.

College Chief Financial Officer Dr. Susan LaPanne presented the financial plan, which administrators said supports the college鈥檚 mission while maintaining a stable financial foundation.

鈥淲e are pleased to announce the Board approval of our balanced budget for the upcoming fiscal year,鈥� College President Dr. Kirk Overstreet said. 鈥淭his achievement reflects our ongoing commitment to fiscal responsibility and sustainability, ensuring we continue to serve our students and community effectively.鈥�

Board Chair Aaron Smith said the passage of a third straight balanced budget is an important milestone for the College.

鈥淭his demonstrates our commitment to fiscal responsibility while maintaining the programs, services, and opportunities that our students and community depend on,鈥� said Smith. 鈥淎s Board Chair, I am proud of the disciplined approach that has positioned the College for long-term stability and future growth.鈥�

The budget will go into effect on July 1. College leaders said the approved budget supports 海角社区鈥檚 mission to enrich lives through learning and community engagement, while maintaining financial stability and expanding opportunities for students.

Officials said the balanced budget will allow the institution to continue building on recent successes and sustaining its role as a key educational provider in the region.

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The Following Students Earned Recognition on the Spring 2026 President鈥檚 List:

Albers: Mallory Strubhart

Anna: Kyle Conway, Daniel Dover, Samuel Skuta

Ava: Samantha Allen, Kendall Farris, Heather Young

Bartelso: Ella Jackstadt, Ava Luebbers

Benton: Kimber McMurray, Natalie Meneese

Cambria: April Madison

Campbell Hill: McKenzie Ebers

Carbondale: Sophia Hartke, Ali Albanna, Mickallie Berry, Andrea Burris, Josiah Cherry, Jennifer Cox, Angelina Detomasi, Emma Dorris, Olivia Dunaway, Burgess Eubanks, Jenna Falco, Tamika Flake, Will Franklin, Macy Glasser, Kimberly Glenn, Tianna Green, Austin Hamilton, Ashley Hess, Ronald Hull, Lina Ibrahim, Kyanna Johnson, Toiara Kellum, Kendra Kendricks, Emily Kersten, Keegan Lampley, Anahbeth Leiter, Andrew Lewis, Angelica Leyva-Tomas, Jasmine McCroy, Ali Mohamad, Eleanor Mohr, Jessica Morrison, Jacie Nunley, Alaysia Phillips, Torin Pierce, Adyson Shepard, Briana Smith, Dorothy Tillman, Thivakar Veluppillai, Jordan Whitehead, Lola Wildermuth, Carlie Wisely, Charley Young

Carterville: Ava Adcock, Bradley Anderson, Keyshawn Barfield, Alexis Beers, Hayden Bernreuter, Evan Berry, Isabella Boyd, Justice Decker, Joseph Draper, Dax Dunnill, Katie Futrell, Nehemiah Goodman, Rachel Gray-Williams, Miller Green, Joseph Harner, Nicholas Hellriegel, Lyla Hess, Aubrey Howell, Kayce Isaacs, Isabella Jerrells, Carter Johnson, Hunter Kollars, Larkin Korte, Trent Kulig, Reagan Lynn, Tyler Malone, Nadia Maring, Zoe Mercer, Sean Murphy, Payton Nicholson, Sara Niemerg, Cole Noreuil, Deanna Overturf, Sophia Poletti, Gracie Ragan, Emma Russell, James Samples, Julia Schmidt, Ava Shiever, Madison Tucker, Audrey Upton, Benjamin Wagner, Michaela Westenberger, Khrystyna Yakymenko, Kameron Yearsley, Zi Zhang, Cale Zoeller

Christopher: Skylie Utley

Cobden: Callie McGee

Colp: Jacob Rush

Creal Springs: Caleb Menser, Athena Palmer, Kade Rivett

De Soto: Addison Cook, Ethan Endress, Heidi Isspeih, Darrell Woods

Du Quoin: Ericka Atkins, Benjamin Bringas, Keira Gibbs, Evan Giles, Alayna Iman, Hallie Provart, Ian Skeel, Addison Willis

Elkville: Kaylin Melvin, Rory Monahan, Jaycie Will

Energy: Isaac Bloodworth, Zachary Henson

Goreville: Caleb Dunning

Herrin: Logan Bond, Breanna Brewster, Vincent Champion, Jordan Coates, Virginia Drew, Kacie Dunn, Wyatt Eddy, Stephan Griggs, Geoffrey Haupt, Courtney Henderson-Hewlett, Saphyra Lagang-Souders, Chase Lannom, Princess Mays, Hayley Pasquino, Jason Ralston, Olivia Rushing, Lucas Sissom, Calli Smith, Jersey Summers, Niekah Torres

Jerseyville: Emily Tuey

Johnston City: Amanda Baxter, Samantha Beers, Tommi Burnett-Miner, Ellie Burns, Allison Hopf, Emma Kirby, Tinaya Lacy, Landon Lafollette, Alexander Lampley, John Ray, Ethan Reynolds, Hannah Simmons

Jonesboro: Paige Harrison

Makanda: Kara Burnside

Marion: Jonathan Aviles, Phoebe Baker, Kayla Banks, Diana Bigler, Rebecca Branch, Easton Branson, Ava Browning, Jada Burnett-Hatton, Cory Campbell, Kristian Cedar, Kylie Dugger, Adriana Dunning, Joel Harmon, Katilyn Heinz, Bailey Hines, Landon Howell, Kelsey Hudgens, Amarri Johnson, James Kirk, Wyatt Landeck, Madison Lees, Alyssa Long, Madelyn Montgomery, Zoia Morgan, Kanyanta Mwansa, Asha Mwanzi, Myrka Perez-Mimendi, Chloe Peterson, Jessica Pouncil, Marissa Ravellette, James Redden, Shai Schauf, Joanna Tran, William Wallace, Tayanna Webster, Avery Wolfe

Monticello: Elijah Craft

Murphysboro:聽Dulce Ambrocio, Ethan Clover, Marcus Gilmore, Gavin Hooks, Stephanie McLaughlin, Haley Peterman, Dillion Phoenix, Dakota Przybocki, Nicholas Talley, Wilma Wimberly, Joshua Wisely

Paducah: Ross Aldridge, Jeremiah Pulliam

Pinckneyville: Brayden Cleland, Brian Kling, Makenna Newell

Pittsburg: Hannah Hunt

Springfield: Camerin Leonard

Steeleville: Jackson Knop

Stonefort: Lillian Steward

Thompsonville: Max Price, Kendal Borchelt

Tunnel Hill: Isaac Maxwell

Vandalia: Jayden Rosetto

Vergeenes: Isabel Sherman

West Frankfort: Kile Britton, Kathlyn Blake, Mya Bradford, Jenna Deason, Chase Denham, Anna Lamczyk, Jacob Prince, Sydney Ragan, Nikolette Ronketto, Madison Tate, Andrew Woolard, Whitney York

The Following Students Earned Recognition on the Spring 2026 Provost鈥檚 List:

Alto Pass: Heather D. Oliphant

Anna: Logan M. Ebersohl; Skylar M. Webb

Ava: Karley D. Powell

Bartelso: Ashlyn J. Luebbers

Benton: Lucas J. Chaney; William Jones; Hayden L. Smith; Austin C. Vandekerkhove

Cambria: Adam M. Bilderback; Ayden I. Gill; Timothy J. Hawthorne

Campbell Hill: Adelynn K. Knop; Weston R. Westerman

Carbondale: Brahna Allen; Jonah D. Bearden; Jack A. Binkowski; Ayniah K. Bollinger; Dayra P. Bran Herrera de Mileur; Grace A. Carr; LaRhonda L. Chick; Nicholas D. Coffey; Taylor A. Crippen; Joel M. Daly; Alyssa A. Daniels; Gwynevere C. Deaton; Ashlyn S. Fox Edwards; Kenya A. Ganer; Audrick F. Griffin; Chaelynn M. Harris; Tyrane D. Jackson; Devin Lovell; Nicholas C. Love; Laney J. McCrary; Brenden P. McNally; Megan M. McNitt; Wilson Meinert; John C. Meredith; Bradley D. Miller; Shirley A. Monroe; Jaquaveiah J. Moore; Alexis M. Murray; Omar K. Naser; Mason A. Reames; Erin L. Rogers; Marcella M. Sevy; Nikki P. Siriboon; Wade T. Swan; Teairra D. Thomas; Evan C. Torres; Payton D. Van Horn; Haden M. Vaughn

Carmi: Haylie M. Mendenhall

Carrier Mills: Ava G. Settle

Carterville: Bryer N. Arview; Mason J. Beno; Logan E. Bingham; Alexander J. Bryant; Brooklynn G. Burnett; Eric J. Butz; Catherine Chyzhyk; Maximus D. Clark; Noah R. Coleman; Davis G. Collie; Wyatt G. Dalton; Rigil Kent Danila; Zoey R. Danner; Jordan L. Dawley; Kennedy B. Dawson; Ronnie L. Dotson; Alyssa S. Duncan; Mason J. Ethington; Jude S. Farley; Cody Freitas; Darrian A. Gaston; Joseph W. Glander; Julia S. Gonzales; Brittney Guillory; Taylor M. Hettenhausen; Chloe R. Keen; Addasyn M. Kell; Elaina G. Lutman; Carren M. Maranga; Christina M. Massey; Rachel E. McClerren; Jeremy C. McKinney; Kierstin S. Miller; Madison P. Morse; Bryce A. Nevils; Frankie L. Nicholes; Taylor K. Nolan; Jack L. Notier; Ryan A. Norman; Boston V. Olson; Luke T. Phillips; Shea L. Pyatt; Parker C. Renken; Haydon R. Reynolds; Hannah R. Schweitzer; Maddox C. Seaman; Sandra K. Shasteen; Gabe E. Smith; Jaeger B. Solis; Maggie J. Stadler; Breanna N. Thurman; Jonah L. Weathers; Allison G. Winfield-Russo

Centralia: Samantha R. Correll

Chester: Katelyn M. Birkner; Kala Kessler

Cobden: Joseph A. Clare; Mitchell D. Howell; Alejandro Zamora

Columbia: Cohen K. Jackson

Creal Springs: Nicholas F. Jellen; Miranda D. Menser; Kelley J. Rix; Josie N. Stapleton; Levi T. Tanner

De Soto: Spencer M. Fred; Jacob D. Oetjen; Hailei S. Rule; Taryn S. Russell

Du Quoin: Jubal J. Alvis; Ella R. Bradley; Johnathan A. Brown; Mathew J. Cavins; Jayden M. Fred; Justin T. Harsy; Ashanti M. Johnson; Alaina M. Reynolds; Dakotah S. Santos; Marlei R. Summers; Camden L. Waller; Ashtyn L. Weeks; Joe V. Wood

Eldorado: John D. Lane

Elkville: Addison J. Funk; Jaylen V. Marshall; Olivia R. Pfeaster; Bryanna G. Spain

Energy: Blake Arnold; Isaac R. Goldman; Kara E. Rowland

Gorham: Erica L. Clendenin

Grand Chain: April N. Castleman

Harrisburg: Dalton I. Brimm; Katie L. Campusano; Amanda L. Hunt; Emma P. Hunt; Laynie G. Kleinfeldt

Herod: Kaitlyn S. Dutton

Herrin: Kamilah L. Ashmore; Braden S. Cagle; Trevor M. Coloni; Madison M. Foster; Cullen W. Frick; Isaac J. Furlong; Lawrence R. Greer; Cameran B. Gwaltney; Remy A. James; Keith G. Layson; Luke D. McCluskie; Talan P. Nemeth; Tamia M. Patino Griggs; Alexis A. Pierce; Morgan J. Restivo; Gage R. Sneed; Madison P. Todd; James A. Triplett; Keegan W. Vorhes

Johnston City: Kristen R. Burnett; Katlynn M. Cagle; Kaylyne F. Carr; Brea B. Chestosky; Diego J. Garza; Kamryn A. Holt; Connor A. Mowery; Toni M. Ridle

Makanda: Dayton L. Dillow; Evan M. Forby; Jenna S. Gomez

Marion: Kahlan R. Anderson; Lauren R. Baine; Robert Bradley; Xander M. Bush; Antuan L. Carter; Makayla T. Collins; Logan W. Comerford; Nathan R. Craig; Aniyah Q. Davis; Thu Do; Anna R. Elders; Jadon S. Flare; Briana N. Fox; Cohen R. Gebhart; Elias J. Gorris; Taylor A. Gregory; Andrew D. Harris; Kyra L. Himmelberger; Aliyah N. Kautz; Caidan L. Masterson; Ryan P. McCaffrey; Kamaura L. Miller; Justin R. Murphy; Chase C. Niemeyer; Aubrey E. Oates; Hunter R. Oliver; Aiden R. Peek; Joni M. Pope; Teisha Lariene N. Ramos; Autumn Ray; Heather L. Rich; Robert T. Robinson; Abigail G. Rushing; Landen J. Salvetti; Jaylyn Sanders; Lilianna N. Smith; Emma L. Sprague; Brian W. Staley; Christy J. Sternberg; Tara A. Stevens; Blaine J. Taylor; Kaci J. Thornton; Harvest Dawn S. Turnage; Kylee A. Turner; Riece N. Utley; Alivia E. Webb; Dalton H. Whitecotton; Danika R. Whitehead; Samantha A. Wilcox; Jordan T. Will; Kara D. Zerbe

Mount Vernon: Ashlyn R. Childers; Brandon D. Ellis

Mulkeytown: Cole J. Gelso

Murphysboro: Alyssa G. Bastien; Joscelin J. Clark; Danielle J. Ferguson; Evan L. Hooper; Tucker V. Horstmann; Shelby D. Nalley; Violet A. Ottwell; Abigail E. Porter; Gavin H. Ridings; Gabriela G. Romero; James D. Scott; Jonathan L. Taylor; India M. Whittington

Ozark: Lucas J. Strickland

Pinckneyville: Logan G. Lindner

Pittsburg: Benjamin C. Harris; Benjamin D. Ritchie

Rosiclare: Emily A. Johnson

Royalton: Sheldon W. McPhail

Springfield: Aurora D. Feng

Steeleville: Dylan J. Hepp

Stonefort: Brylee R. Craig

Valier: Catrina F. Russell

Vienna: Harold A. Bundren; Briset B. Martinez

West Frankfort: Emalee J. Barton; Jayden N. Bonner; Danielle I. Broy; Eric D. Duncan; Dylan L. Ellis; Elijah K. Futch; Evan A. Goforth; Stephanie M. Gosney; Ava R. Harkins; Kynli J. Jordan; Cole J. Mann; Hannah L. Mullins; Jade R. Remp; Elizabeth M. Strickland; Arabella L. Williams

Willisville: Kendra D. Guetersloh; Tessa M. Nehrt

The post 海角社区 Announces Spring 2026 President鈥檚 and Provost鈥檚 Lists appeared first on 海角社区.

The celebration will feature a keynote address by Dr. Paul Frazier, Vice Chancellor for Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion at Southern Illinois University Carbondale. Attendees will also enjoy live music from The J Sound Band.

Food will be provided by Smokin K’s BBQ and Cajun Cuisine and Pepsi MidAmerica. In addition to entertainment and refreshments, guests can participate in a variety of activities, including poetry and historical readings, Human Bingo, local vendor displays, games, and other family-oriented attractions.

鈥淛uneteenth is an opportunity to celebrate freedom, reflect on our nation鈥檚 history, and come together as a community,鈥� said 海角社区 President Dr. Kirk Overstreet. 鈥淲e invite everyone to join us for an evening of education, entertainment, and fellowship.鈥�

Attendees are encouraged to bring donations and school supplies to benefit the Boys & Girls Club of Southern Illinois and Mary Logan High School. The collection effort is intended to support local youth and families throughout the region.
Service Project Collection Drive flyer (PDF)

Due to ongoing construction projects on the 海角社区 campus, visitors attending the event are asked to park in the Gold and Blue parking lots and follow posted signage to the Conference Center.

Juneteenth commemorates June 19, 1865, when enslaved African Americans in Galveston, Texas, learned of their freedom more than two years after the issuance of the Emancipation Proclamation. The holiday celebrates freedom, resilience, culture, and progress.

For more information about the event, contact 海角社区 at (618) 985-2828 or visit the College鈥檚 Juneteenth webpage.

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The accreditation, which will remain in effect until any future status changes are approved by CAAHEP, recognizes the college鈥檚 commitment to providing high-quality health professions education. 

海角社区 assumed responsibility for the Surgical Technology program from the Southern Illinois College Common Market in 2024 and opened new state-of-the-art classrooms and labs on its Carterville campus later that year. 

Provost Dr. Stephanie Chaney Hartford said the milestone reflects the work of the program鈥檚 faculty and staff. 鈥淲e are proud to have received initial accreditation from CAAHEP, following ARC/STSA’s recommendation, for our Surgical Technology Program,鈥� Hartford said. 鈥淭his achievement demonstrates that our program meets nationally recognized standards of excellence and prepares students with the knowledge, clinical experience, and professional competencies needed to succeed in today鈥檚 healthcare environment. Accreditation not only validates the strength of our curriculum and instruction, but also ensures our graduates are equipped to meet certification requirements and contribute meaningfully to patient care and the regional workforce.鈥� 

Program Director and instructor Jennifer Jordan was recognized for her leadership in guiding the program through the rigorous accreditation process. Dr. Kristin Yosanovich, Dean of Health Sciences and Director of Nursing, was also credited for strategic leadership instrumental in achieving the milestone. 

Surgical technologists are allied health professionals who assist surgeons, anesthesiologists, and nurses during procedures in hospitals, surgery centers, and private clinics. Their responsibilities include preparing the operating room, ensuring instruments and equipment are ready and functioning, maintaining sterile conditions, and assisting the surgical team throughout procedures. 

鈥淏eing a surgical technologist requires expertise, adaptability, and teamwork,鈥� Hartford said. 鈥淭his accreditation ensures that our graduates are well-prepared to provide safe, high-quality care in a dynamic operating room environment.鈥� 

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Last year, Roberts signed up for the 海角社区 Tri-Festa at Logan Fitness almost on a dare after friends laughed at the idea of him completing a triathlon. At the time, he described himself as living a sedentary lifestyle at nearly 300 pounds. Roberts said he arrived at the event unprepared, borrowing a helmet and carrying a gym bag because he did not realize triathletes typically transition without changing clothes. Despite the odds, he finished.

This year, Roberts is returning to Tri-Festa on Saturday, May 23, with a different mindset and a new personal goal: finishing the race in under two hours after completing last year鈥檚 event in just over three hours.

For Roberts, the biggest moment from last year鈥檚 race happened after most participants had already crossed the finish line.

After completing the running portion of the race, Roberts later learned that much of the event had already been taken down by the time he reached the end. But instead of letting him finish alone, Logan Fitness staff member Mady Calvin started running beside him. Soon, other participants joined in.

When Roberts made his way toward the finish, the arch had been put back up. People were waiting. Cheering him on. Crossing that finish line, Roberts said, became more than just completing a race. It was a moment of triumph over doubt and fear.

鈥淚 honestly think it was probably the best thing I ever did,鈥� Roberts said. 鈥淥nce I knew I could do that, it made me feel like I could do other stuff.鈥�

That one race sparked a complete lifestyle change.

Now, nearly a year later, Roberts has lost more than 100 pounds and says he feels better than he ever has in his adult life.

鈥淚 feel the best I鈥檝e ever felt my whole adult life,鈥� he said. 鈥淚t鈥檚 affected my confidence, my mood, everything.鈥�

Roberts now swims regularly at Logan Fitness, lifts weights several evenings a week and has inspired several others to sign up for their first triathlon this year.

He credits Logan Fitness for helping support his journey, from access to the pool and equipment to encouragement from staff along the way. Living nearby, he said the facility became part of his routine and a place where he felt comfortable learning and improving.

鈥淥h yeah, you guys (Logan Fitness staff) are absolutely fabulous,鈥� Roberts said. 鈥淲hat a great resource for Southern Illinois.鈥�

If this year鈥檚 Tri-Festa goes well, Roberts said he hopes it will just be the beginning. He would like to continue competing in more triathlons in the future.

For others who may feel discouraged or unsure where to begin, Roberts said the most important thing is simply taking the first step and not giving up.

鈥淛ust try different things and see what works best,鈥� he said. 鈥淒on鈥檛 quit.鈥�

While he jokes about still feeling like the 鈥減rofessional wrestler guy who always loses鈥� in his triathlon suit, Roberts said the experience taught him something much bigger than competition.

鈥淚t鈥檚 not about what other people think,鈥� he said. 鈥淚t鈥檚 about what makes you feel better about yourself.鈥�

For Roberts, crossing the finish line last year was just the start. This year, he hopes that moment will come full circle again, not just as a race completed, but as a celebration of how far he鈥檚 come and the possibilities still ahead.

Ready to take on the challenge yourself?

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Corbit, chair of the Life and Physical Science Department, has been named the College鈥檚 2026 Outstanding Faculty Member, an honor awarded by her peers in recognition of her dedication to students, passion for STEM education, and commitment to the mission of community colleges.

For Corbit, the recognition is deeply personal.

A first-generation college student herself, Corbit began her higher education journey at Shawnee Community College, where she attended on both academic and athletic scholarships. She later pursued her passion for science at Southern Illinois University, earning both a bachelor鈥檚 and a master鈥檚 degree.

What she believed would be a short-term teaching opportunity ultimately became a lifelong career.

A phone call from her former volleyball coach at Shawnee, asking if she would be interested in teaching as a summer adjunct instructor, changed everything.

Twenty-two years later, Corbit has become one of the most respected faculty members at 海角社区, where she has served for the past eight years.

鈥淭he College has really supported me, and my colleagues have been fantastic,鈥� Corbit said. 鈥淓veryone from the administration has been so supportive; it has been a great place to work.鈥�

Corbit said one example of that support has been the addition of new classrooms and tutoring spaces that opened this past fall.

鈥淚t has been great that we have been able to offer services that have been here, but were a little bit tucked away,鈥� she said. 鈥淣ow it is much more visible, allowing us to serve our students better.鈥�

Her own experience as a community college student continues to shape the way she approaches teaching and mentoring.

鈥淚 love being able to get to know my students, and I think that is unique to community colleges that I am able to hear their stories,鈥� Corbit said. 鈥淚 feel like on day one that I always want to be there for them, and I think they learn really quickly that it is not just words and that I do care for them.鈥�

That compassion has left a lasting impact on generations of students and remains one of the defining themes of her career.

鈥淥ne of the things that makes me the proudest is that year after year there is a recurring theme in my evaluations that I care,鈥� Corbit said. 鈥淚 hope I go my whole career hearing those things.鈥�

Colleagues said Corbit鈥檚 passion for student success and her tireless advocacy for science education throughout Southern Illinois made her a natural choice for the honor.

鈥淲e are incredibly proud to recognize Rebecca Corbit as the Outstanding Faculty of the Year. Rebecca is the kind of educator every student hopes for鈥攑assionate, engaging, and deeply committed to their success. She brings both deep knowledge and an infectious enthusiasm to every classroom, helping students see their potential and believe in what they can achieve,鈥� said Provost Dr. Stephanie Chaney Hartford. 鈥淏eyond the classroom, Rebecca鈥檚 leadership鈥攅specially her work with our STEM Day鈥攈as created meaningful opportunities for students across our region. She inspires not only her students, but all of us, and truly reflects the heart and excellence of 海角社区.鈥�

Hartford added that in addition to leading the Life and Physical Science Department, Corbit has played a key role in strengthening STEM opportunities for students while fostering a supportive learning environment both inside and outside the classroom.

For Corbit, however, the recognition from her fellow faculty members may be the most meaningful part of the award.

鈥淚t is so special to be recognized by my colleagues as a whole and not just my department because so many people are deserving of this award,鈥� she said.

As she reflects on the path that led her from community college student to educator, Corbit said she remains grateful for the opportunities she was given and hopes to provide the same encouragement and support to her students.

Her story, colleagues say, is a powerful reminder of the transformative impact community colleges can have 鈥� not only on students, but on the communities they go on to serve.

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But like many non-traditional students, life happened first. Bills needed to be paid. Work became routine. Days turned into years.

Like many adults who step away from education, Beals said it became easy to convince himself school could wait another semester, then another year.

鈥淚 was just kind of going through the motions,鈥� Beals said. 鈥淚 had a pretty good job. It was stable, but it wasn鈥檛 something I was passionate about.鈥�

Now 30, Beals has become one of the most recognizable student leaders at 海角社区. A student ambassador, former president of the Black Student Association, employee at Logan Fitness and active presence on campus, Beals completed his time at 海角社区 in December. However, the impact he left on campus did not end there.

College leaders asked him to return to deliver this year鈥檚 student commencement address, a reflection of the impact he made during his time at 海角社区. He will take the stage during 海角社区鈥檚 commencement ceremony at 10 a.m. Saturday, May 16, at Mtn Dew Park.

His journey back to school began when a coworker encouraged him to enroll alongside him at 海角社区, believing the two could take the leap together.

At the time, however, Beals was preparing to tell his friend he had decided not to enroll in college after all. Before he could send the message, his phone died.

That unexpected pause changed everything.

鈥淚 sat there and really thought about when exactly I decided it was too late for me,鈥� Beals said. 鈥淲hen did I let my ambition die?鈥�

In that quiet moment, Beals said he realized the biggest thing holding him back was no longer time, money or responsibility, but fear of starting over.

Instead of backing out, he charged his phone, texted his friend back and registered for classes at 海角社区.

鈥淭he rest is history,鈥� he added.

Since stepping onto campus, Beals has immersed himself fully into college life.

鈥淚 don鈥檛 like to do things halfway. If I do something, it has to be worthwhile,鈥� he said.

That mindset helped him quickly become a leader among his peers. Whether organizing events through the Black Student Association, helping lead campus initiatives or encouraging fellow students and community members through his work at Logan Fitness, Beals said the supportive environment at 海角社区 helped him thrive.

鈥淚 feel like the staff and administration here are some of the most supportive people they could ever be,鈥� he said. 鈥淎nything I went to them about, they always gave me the tools that I needed.鈥�

For Beals, returning to school became about far more than earning a degree. More than anything, he said becoming a father changed the way he viewed responsibility and leadership.

He said his son, Dion III, became one of his biggest motivations to keep pushing forward. 鈥淜ids don鈥檛 do what you tell them to do. They do what you do,鈥� Beals said. 鈥淵ou have to set an example.鈥�

That example now extends far beyond his own family.

Beals is currently continuing his education at Southern Illinois University Carbondale through an accelerated master鈥檚 program in criminology. His long-term goal is to attend law school and become a juvenile criminal defense attorney.

Growing up in Chicago shaped that dream. 鈥淚 realized if you really want to help people, you have to help them at a younger age,鈥� he said.

Beals hopes to one day mentor and advocate for young people before they become trapped in cycles that are difficult to escape.

As commencement approaches, Beals said being selected as the student speaker is both humbling and meaningful because of how many different types of students he feels he represents.

鈥淚 feel like I鈥檓 a mixture of every type of student here at 海角社区. Logan,鈥� he said. 鈥淚鈥檓 non-traditional, but I was involved on campus. I did a lot of different things.鈥�

Looking back, Beals said choosing 海角社区 changed his life in ways he never expected. 鈥淚鈥檓 definitely glad I came to 海角社区.,鈥� he said. 鈥淗ere, you build connections with people. It鈥檚 more personable.鈥�

What began as a simple decision to give college another chance ultimately changed the trajectory of Beals鈥� life, transforming him from someone simply going through the motions into a leader determined to make a difference.

And for students who may feel like it is too late to start over, Beals hopes his story proves otherwise. 鈥淭he time is going to pass anyway,鈥� he added. 鈥淵ou might as well do it.鈥�

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