NOTE: All SRC locations will be closed Fridays beginning May 22 through the end of July, for summer hours. Also closed on Mon., May 25 for Memorial Day.
Posted by Vickie Parry on | Comments Off on Dual Credit Opens Doors to College & Career Success
For many students, the path to a college degree, and a career, begins before they even graduate from high school.
Spoon River College’s Dual Credit program is making that possible.
Through this program, high school students can enroll in approved courses and earn both high school and college credit at the same time. The result is a head start that saves time, reduces cost, and builds confidence.
Today, 293 students from across the district are enrolled in dual credit courses.
Of those, 12 students are on track to graduate this spring with both their high school diplomas and associate degrees, an achievement that puts them significantly ahead as they enter the workforce or continue their education.
The program also goes beyond traditional academic courses. Students have the opportunity to explore career and technical education pathways, gaining hands-on experience in fields like welding. Currently, 14 students are enrolled in welding at the Macomb campus, with another 10 participating in Canton.
These experiences allow students to graduate not only with credits—but with real skills.
For those looking to continue, Foundation scholarships are available specifically for dual credit students, helping make that next step even more accessible.
For many, Dual Credit isn’t just a program—it’s the beginning of a future.
Posted by Vickie Parry on | Comments Off on Spoon River College Presents Student Achievement Awards and Pay it Forward Scholarships
Each year at graduation, Spoon River College recognizes one transfer student and one career education student who have shown initiative, personal growth, and progress toward their academic and personal goals, as well as active participation and success in extracurricular activities.
The recipient of this year’s Transfer Degree Student Achievement Award was Samantha Sensor of Macomb, Ill, who has demonstrated consistent academic excellence and a strong commitment to student life at Spoon River College. She not only maintained outstanding grades but has also been a dedicated and involved member of the campus community.
Samantha completed her associate degree at SRC and plans to transfer to Western Illinois University to continue her studies with a focus on broad-based, interdisciplinary learning.
While at SRC, Samantha balanced her roles as a wife and mother of five while staying highly engaged on campus. She was an active member of Phi Theta Kappa and the Student Government Association, volunteered with the SRC Adult Education program, and has served as a TRIO peer tutor and co-editor of the student-run literary and visual arts journal, Kaleidoscope.
The Career and Technical Student Achievement Award was presented to nursing student Carrington Troxel of Edwards, lll. She is known for consistently offering support and encouragement to classmates and teammates and is a resource for others.
Alongside her academic demands, Carrington maintained an intense commitment outside the classroom as a member of the Spoon River College softball team. Practices, conditioning, games, and travel were constant, yet Carrington continued to meet expectations with perseverance and discipline.
She has worked hard to build her nursing knowledge and experience to best serve her patients and meet her dreams of becoming a registered nurse.
In addition, three Pay It Forward scholarships for up to $5,000 each were awarded to Jack Godsil (Victoria, Ill), Alicia Lasley (Macomb, Ill) and Tiffany Wilson (Edmond, Okla). These awards were introduced in 2024 courtesy of an anonymous donor to empower SRC students in achieving their academic and career goals, encouraging a spirit of giving back to local communities and developing a culture of “paying it forward” to the next generation of SRC students.
Posted by Vickie Parry on | Comments Off on Spoon River College Receives $8,500 Grant from the Dollar General Literacy Foundation to Support Adult Literacy
The Dollar General Literacy Foundation (DGLF) recently awarded the Spoon River College Adult Education Program an $8,500 grant to support adult literacy. The funds are a part of a record-setting, one-day donation in the Foundation’s history of more than $13.2 million to support adult, family, and summer literacy programs in the 48 states in which Dollar General operates.
“We are incredibly honored to receive this grant from the Dollar General Literacy Foundation,” said Chad Murphy, Director of Adult Education at Spoon River College. “Their continued investment in adult literacy highlights the transformative power of education, not just for individuals, but for entire communities. This funding allows us to expand our reach, support more learners, and help adults build the skills they need to succeed academically, professionally, and personally.”
Through its Adult Education Program, Spoon River College helps individuals earn their Illinois High School Diploma and transition into college-level coursework. Preparation classes focus on reading, writing, social studies, science, and math—core subjects required to pass the GED exam and build a strong academic foundation. These free classes are offered at multiple times and locations across the college’s service area to accommodate diverse student needs.
“Since the Foundation’s inception in 1993, our focus has remained on making meaningful investments in students, teachers, and the organizations that support literacy and learning at every stage of life,” said Denine Torr, executive director of the Dollar General Literacy Foundation. “We are grateful for the impact teachers and educators make every day and are excited to have another record setting year of helping expand literacy access for learners of all ages. These funds will help educators enhance their instruction and create opportunities that help empower students to reach their full potential.”
The Dollar General Literacy Foundation supports organizations that increase access to educational programming, stimulate and enable innovation in the delivery of educational instruction and inspire a love of reading. Each year, DGLF awards funds to nonprofit organizations, schools, and libraries within a 15-mile radius of a Dollar General store or distribution center to support adult, family, summer and youth literacy programs. The Foundation also offers a student referral program for individuals interested in learning how to read, speak English, or prepare for the high school equivalency exam. Referrals to a local organization that provides free literacy services are available online here or through referral cards found in the Learn to Read brochures that are available at the cash register of every Dollar General store.
About the Dollar General Literacy Foundation
The Dollar General Literacy Foundation is proud to support initiatives that help others improve their lives through literacy and education. Since 1993, the Foundation has awarded more than $271 million in grants to nonprofit organizations, helping more than 23 million individuals take their first steps toward literacy, a general education diploma or English proficiency. Each year, the Dollar General Literacy Foundation provides financial support to schools, nonprofit organizations and libraries within a 15-mile radius of Dollar General stores and distribution centers. To learn more about the Dollar General Literacy Foundation or apply for a literacy grant, visit www.dgliteracy.org.
Posted by Vickie Parry on | Comments Off on Amy Rutledge Recognized for Teaching Excellence
Spoon River College faculty member Amy Rutledge is this year’s recipient of the H. Truman Standard Award, presented for teaching excellence, meritorious service to the institution, and adherence to the SRC core values of Caring, Respect, Integrity, Fairness, and Responsibility.
The H. Truman Standard award is presented annually to a faculty member who exemplifies excellence in teaching, outstanding service to the institution, and a strong commitment to Spoon River College’s core values of Caring, Respect, Integrity, Fairness, and Responsibility.
This year’s recipient, Amy Rutledge, has been a dedicated member of the Spoon River College full-time faculty team since joining the Biology Department in 2014. Throughout her tenure, she has taught General Biology I and II, Botany and Zoology, Environmental Science, and Principles of Microbiology. She is recognized for her depth of knowledge and her genuine passion for helping students achieve their academic goals.
Professor Rutledge is also deeply engaged in campus life. She has been the driving force behind the College Poster Presentations, an initiative she introduced early in her time at the college. Through her continued leadership and coordination, the event has grown into a dynamic academic experience, offering students the opportunity to participate in research presentations typically reserved for the university level. In addition to teaching and serving on multiple committees, Professor Rutledge has recently taken on the coordination of our College Theme and the College Theme Presentations, which highlight the similarities and uniqueness of academic disciplines and career fields.
Her impact is perhaps best reflected in the words of her students. One student shares that she “recognizes that Biology is not always the easiest subject and does her best to make her classes enjoyable and easy to understand. She is always positive and willing to help whenever needed.”
Another student says, “She loves Biology, even though that darn cellular respiration is a hard one to teach. She should get an award just for making that a little easier to understand.”
Through her commitment to teaching, service, and student success, Professor Rutledge truly embodies the spirit of the H. Truman Standard Award.
The award was presented during an employee appreciation luncheon, and was announced at the college’s 65th Commencement on May 14 at the Canton Campus.
Posted by Vickie Parry on | Comments Off on Todd Thompson Recognized as Outstanding Full-Time Faculty Member
Spoon River College faculty member Todd Thompson is the recipient of this year’s Spoon River College Outstanding Full-Time Faculty Award and Illinois Community College Trustee Association Outstanding Full-Time Faculty Nominee. The award is presented each year to an outstanding faculty member who displays teaching excellence, has the ability to take a personal interest in students, and inspires enthusiasm through teaching techniques.
This year’s recipient, Todd Thompson, has served as a full-time professor in the Diesel and Power Systems Technology program at Spoon River College since 1998. Throughout his tenure, he has developed a dynamic and hands-on approach to instruction, incorporating lectures, demonstrations, lab experiences, on-the-job training, and meaningful interactions with industry professionals. Central to his teaching are the constant themes of understanding systems, communicating about systems, problem-solving, and teamwork, which are common in today’s workforce.
Mr. Thompson’s commitment to student success extends well beyond the classroom. He maintains strong connections with graduates, supports their continued growth in the field, and actively recruits future students to the program. The respect and admiration he earns from his students reflects the lasting impact he has on their educational journeys and career paths. His dedication has been instrumental in shaping the Diesel & Power Systems Technology program into the thriving and respected program it is today.
In addition to his teaching, Mr. Thompson has demonstrated exceptional leadership and service to the college. He has served on numerous committees as a thoughtful and collaborative leader, known for his fairness, problem-solving skills, and willingness to serve. In his current role as Division Chair for Career and Technical Education, he continues to lead with professionalism, integrity, and a strong sense of responsibility. His colleagues value his insight, dependability, and steady presence.
In his teaching philosophy, Mr. Thompson shares:
“Everything is easy after you understand it” is the core of what education means to me as an instructor. Follow this up with lectures long enough to cover the subject and short enough to keep their attention, and you will have lifelong learners. When that happens, the value of education is stronger and lasts a lifetime.
Through his dedication to teaching, leadership, and student achievement, Todd Thompson exemplifies the spirit of this award.
The award was presented during an employee appreciation luncheon and announced at the college’s 65th Commencement held May 14 at the Canton Campus.
Posted by Vickie Parry on | Comments Off on Spoon River College Employees Recognized for Years of Service
Spoon River College held an appreciation event May 1 at the Macomb Campus and May 8 at the Canton Campus to recognize employees for their years of service. Faculty awards were also presented, with President of Spoon River College Dr. Curt Oldfield presiding over the events.
Honored for five years were:
Lucas Buchen (Coordinator, Instructional Research & Analytics Specialist)
Lori Eddy (Office Assistant, Student Services)
Honored for 15 years were:
Ellen Armstrong (Office Assistant, Macomb Campus)
Andrea Barbknecht (Director, Canton Outreach Center)
Todd Thompson (Diesel & Power System Technology Faculty)
Bob Walter (Coordinator, Commercial Driver Training)
Vicky Walter (Commercial Driver Training Faculty)
Todd Thompson (Diesel & Power System Technology Faculty), was recognized as SRC’s Illinois Community College Trustees Association Outstanding Full-Time Faculty Member award nominee. This award is presented to faculty who display teaching excellence, have an ability to take a personal interest in students, and inspire enthusiasm through teaching techniques.
Amy Rutledge (Science Faculty), was the recipient of the H. Truman Standard Award, presented each year to a faculty member for teaching excellence, meritorious service to the institution, and displaying the Spoon River College Core Values of Caring, Respect, Integrity, Fairness, and Responsibility.
Faculty award recipients will also be recognized at the commencement to be held Thursday, May 14 at the Canton Campus.
Spoon River College is a two-year, public community college in West Central Illinois, with campuses and Community Outreach Centers in Canton and Macomb, and Learning Centers in Havana and Rushville.
Posted by Vickie Parry on | Comments Off on Mrs. Roper’s Romp Raises $3,000 for Havana High School Students attending SRC
The 2nd Annual Mrs. Roper Romp fundraiser was held in downtown Havana on May 9, with dozens of Mrs. Ropers and a few Stanleys (characters from the 70s sitcom Three’s Company) taking to the streets to raise scholarship funds for Havana students attending Spoon River College.
“We raised more than $3,000 this year, double what we raised our first year,” said Michelle Howe, Alumni/SRC Foundation coordinator. “We had over 75 people attend, the weather was perfect, and we all had a good time as we raised funds for our students.”
Brian Lutz was the winner of the costume contest dressed as Mrs. Roper, Coral Kimble was the winner of the farthest drive coming from Edwardsville, IL, Sarah Gray was the winner of the door prize from Barner’s Butcher Block, and there were more than 120 winners during Bingo with Chris Boggs and DJ Vern Smith. A 50/50 raffle was also held.
Participating businesses—who offered coupons and food/drink specials throughout the day—were the Stag Tap, Babes on Plum, Vic’s Place, Riverside Restaurant, Nightcap Tap, JC’s River Run, Heaven Scent Florist, The Blue Butterfly, Gisela’s House, Market Street Boutique, and Manhattan Fields.
Bingo prizes were donated by Spoon River College Community Outreach, Black Maple Coffee, Manhattan Fields, Market Street Boutique, The Blue Butterfly, Heaven Scent Florist, Studio 300, Mason City Limits Comedy Club, Opera House Suites, Barner’s Butcher Block, Ace Hardware, and employees of Spoon River College.
Event Sponsors included Havana National Bank, Fornoff Fertilizer, Mason District Hospital, Atwater Garage, and Wolter’s Drug Store.
The event was hosted by the Spoon River College Foundation, Spoon River College Community Outreach, and Andrea Thomson/Mason District Hospital.
For more information about the SRC Foundation, visit www.src.edu or call (309) 833-6083.
Posted by Vickie Parry on | Comments Off on Ronald Gunther’s Legacy Lives On Through Transformational Gift to Spoon River College
Spoon River College is honored to announce a generous estate gift of $141,817 from the late Ronald G. Gunther, whose lifelong dedication to education and the sciences will continue to impact students for generations to come.
A 1962 graduate of Canton Community College, now Spoon River College, Gunther went on to earn his Master of Science degree from Bradley University in 1971.
From 1966 until his retirement in 1989, Gunther taught Biology and Advanced Biology at Mid-County School District, where he became widely respected for his passion for science education and commitment to student success. During his teaching career, he was honored with the Teacher of the Year award three times. Known for his innovative and engaging approach to Biology instruction, Gunther also authored several published papers in the field.
Through this generous estate gift, Spoon River College will establish the Ronald Gunther Biology Scholarship, which will provide financial assistance to students majoring in biology. The scholarship reflects Gunther’s enduring belief in the power of education and his desire to support future generations of students.
“We are deeply grateful for Ronald Gunther’s extraordinary generosity and lifelong commitment to education,” said Dusty Berg, Foundation Director. “His legacy will continue through the students who benefit from this scholarship and pursue careers in science.”
Planned gifts such as Gunther’s create lasting opportunities for students and strengthen the future of higher education. Individuals interested in including Spoon River College in their estate plans are encouraged to speak with their financial advisor, attorney, or estate planner. Spoon River College also welcomes conversations with donors who wish to explore planned giving opportunities and create a meaningful legacy through scholarships, programs, and student support.
For more information about planned giving opportunities at Spoon River College, please contact the Spoon River College Foundation at 309-649-6395.
Posted by Vickie Parry on | Comments Off on President’s Receptions Honors Donors
Spoon River College hosted the annual President’s Reception to honor those donors who have reached specific levels of cumulative giving to the SRC Foundation, and also those who established new named endowed scholarships in 2025. This year’s event was held April 30 at the Spoon River College Canton Campus.
New scholarships established were the Susie McMillen Memorial Scholarship and the L&C Scholarship.
Friend ($1,000-$4,999): Canton Gear Jammers, Joby Crum, Charles Cox, Shawnie Evans, Michael Gibbs, Tara Gross, Dan Helms, Victor Johnson, Deena Kohlmeyer, John Kurtz, Bill and Judy Leitze, Julie Morrisette, Suzan Nash, Kevin Ruzas, Harold Sargent, Donna Stuckey, Local Union No. 7110, Maximillion Wilson, and Mary Young.
Ambassador ($5,000-$9,9999): Fairview State Banking Company, The Curtis Gorsuch Family, John and Kathy Marshall, Marsha McCormick, Kevin and Debbie Stephenson, and Unland Insurance and Benefits.
Benefactor ($10,000-$24,999): Randy McMillen, and Alison and Warren Wolf.
President’s Council ($50,000-$99,999): Edward Juraco, Marianne and Robert Reading, and West Central FS.
Founder ($100,000 and up): Kenneth and Nina Long, and Spoon River College Community Chorus
“We at the Spoon River College Foundation strive to be able to give a scholarship to every eligible student who applies. The President’s Reception is just one way for us to say ‘thank you’ to the wonderful donors who make that possible,” states Dusty Berg, SRC Foundation Director.
“In addition to scholarships, the donors and their generous gifts are responsible for many of the facilities and programs that enhance SRC students’ lives as they fulfill their educational goals. We are beyond grateful to our donors for caring about our community and students!”
In addition to honoring donors, outgoing Foundation board member Debbie Collins was recognized for her time of service.
The SRC Foundation supports scholarships and college programs through hardship grants, innovation grants, faculty research, facility and technology upgrades, and community projects. For more information about the SRC Foundation visit www.src.edu.
Posted by Vickie Parry on | Comments Off on Fall 2026 Dual Credit Scholarship Applications Deadline Extended to July 1
The application for SRC Foundation Fall 2026 dual credit scholarships for eligible high school students who want to begin earning college credit at Spoon River College is available, and the deadline has been extended to July 1.
The dual credit/dual enrollment program helps high school students get an early start on their college education. By enrolling in specific programs and courses, eligible students can take Spoon River College classes for high school and/or college credit or gain job training to begin a career after graduation.
“The application is now due by 3:30 p.m. on July 1, 2026,” said Dusty Berg, director of the SRC Foundation. “After that, recipients will be selected based on the number of applicants and availability of funds. Students will be notified by email as soon as possible once selections are made.”
Participating high schools include Astoria, Bushnell, Canton, Cuba, Farmington, Havana, Lewistown, Macomb, Rushville, Spoon River Valley, V.I.T., and West Prairie. Homeschooled students who reside within these districts are also eligible to apply.
For more information about dual credit scholarships, visit https://www.src.edu/foundation or call Beth Wilson at (309) 649-6221 or Connor Hughes at (309) 833-6022. For more information about summer scholarships, visit https://www.src.edu/foundation or call Dusty Berg at (309) 649-6395.
