Olivia Miller, SRC Student: First-Generation Student Feature

Current SRC Sophomore, member of TRIO and Snapper Volleyball Team

My college experience at Spoon River has been great as a first-generation student. Spoon River has been the perfect blend of staying close to home, but also branching out and making new friends. The faculty and staff here are amazing and are always willing to help students.

TRIO has provided me with the extra resources I needed to be successful as a college student. They have provided me guidance in many different aspects and are very helpful. I have learned many different things that will help me in my future.

After SRC, I plan to attend Saint Francis Medical Center College of Nursing to earn my BSN. I hope to become a pediatric nurse!

Nikki Rittenhouse, Director of Financial Aid: First-Generation Student Feature

My college experience was not typical. First of all, the school I attended had 13,000 students, so I felt like I was just a number! I was a commuter, traveling around 50 miles a day, to and from class. I worked 30 hours a week to afford gas, insurance and other things I needed. I didn’t have time for any extracurriculars. I lived at home with my parents because I could not afford housing on campus. Thankfully they supported me in that way, but because my parents did not have the experience of going to college themselves, I had to figure out a lot of things on my own. I remember being too scared to go into the Financial Aid office to ask questions. I didn’t know what to say or how to ask about withdrawing from a class and how that would affect my financial aid. Now that I work in Financial Aid, I never want a student to feel that way. I have always tried my hardest to make students feel comfortable in our office.

SRC is small enough that students don’t feel like “just a number”. We know our students names, and they know ours! With that added personal experience, we take the time to work with students, by offering the TRIO program to help prepare them for transferring on to a 4-year school. We have a top-notch Learning Resource Center that works with students, one-on-one, to be successful.  Our faculty provide challenging coursework to ensure our students are ready to move on to the workforce or their next academic adventure. We take pride in saying “we knew that student when” because our students go on to do some amazing things!

Jason Strandberg, History/Political Science Professor: First-Generation Student Feature

In some ways, my college experience was very challenging.  I had pretty much no support from my parents and lived largely with friends.  I accepted a Track and Cross-Country scholarship so I could afford to go to college, but balancing school work and outside work with that definitely kept me on my toes.  There were definitely times I was not convinced that I would finish college, but I kept at it with the help of friends. On the other hand, I loved it.  I made a lot of friends at SRC who I am still in touch with today and enjoyed my time here.  Lowell Aten, the history teacher during my time inspired me to work towards my Master’s Degree.  After SRC, I went on to earn my B.A. and M.A. and eventually began to teach full time at SRC when Mr. Aten retired.

Although I went to SRC a long, long time ago, I feel many of the things that helped me be successful are still major strengths at SRC today.  I believe both faculty and Student Services are good at helping students see what their options are after they leave SRC.  There are many opportunities to explore what four-year universities can do to help further prospective student educational goals, or career opportunities after graduating from SRC.  When it comes to First-Gen students, these can be crucial to help students feel more confident (and lower stress) when it is time to take that next step.

Elaine Lucas, Health Science Professor: First-Generation Student Feature

At Spoon River College, many of our faculty members once stood where our students stand now: uncertain, overwhelmed, and wondering if they belong. For first-generation students, that path can feel especially lonely. But take heart: your journey is valid, and you’re not walking it alone.

I was a first-generation American whose parents immigrated from Greece with limited education and no English language skills. They eventually adapted, but they couldn’t really help me with school, I struggled through most of my early education. Despite the odds, I was accepted to Western Illinois University but continued to feel lost. In hindsight, I would have benefited so much from starting at a community college.

It wasn’t until grad school, while teaching short seminars, that I discovered a passion for education. I began adjunct teaching at SRC while finishing my master’s degree, and everything clicked. That sealed the deal. After working in both university and community college settings, I knew SRC was where I belonged.

Today, I am proud to be a part of a campus community that actively supports students who are just like I was. Through programs like TRIO, personalized guidance from Student Success Coaches, and small class sizes that foster real connections, SRC is committed to helping first-gen students succeed and thrive.

Elaine’s message to students: “Education is yours to keep and no one can ever take it away from you. Whether it takes two years or twenty, whether you switch paths or stumble along the way, just keep going. Your journey is valid, and it’s worth it.”

Catherine Calvert, Assistant Director, Learning Resource Center: First-Generation Student Feature

My college journey was far from traditional. As a first-generation college student, I entered higher education without a clear roadmap. For me, college represented a chance to create a better future for myself and to earn a degree that would lead to a good job with solid benefits and long-term stability.

Though my path wasn’t traditional, it deeply shaped who I am. Being a first-generation college student in the 1990s meant figuring out many things on my own. My experiences taught me resilience, independence, and the importance of persistence, even when the path isn’t always clear. Looking back, I wish I had taken more time to learn about the resources available to me before I started college.

Today, I am amazed and encouraged by the wealth of support available to first-generation students. Programs like TRIO, along with success coaches, financial aid advisors, mental health services, and even free laptop lending programs, are making a tremendous difference. High school counselors are also more equipped than ever to guide students through the college process, from scholarships and grants to dual-credit opportunities.

At SRC, first-generation students now have access to a network of support that can help them feel seen, heard, and empowered. The TRIO program, in particular, offers individualized guidance that helps students build confidence, overcome barriers, and stay on track for graduation and success beyond college. These kinds of resources can truly change the game for students like me, those who may not have started with all the answers, but who are ready to work hard for a better future.

I’m proud to now have a career where I can help students who face similar challenges, and I find great purpose in supporting them on their educational journey. It’s rewarding to know that the college experience continues to evolve for the better, especially for first-gen students who deserve every opportunity to thrive.

Annalies Dowell, SRC Student: First-Generation Student Feature

Current SRC Sophomore, member of TRIO, Student Government Association, and the Theater program

My college experience has been pretty decent so far. I’m on my last year at SRC, but I’ve made a lot of friends, not just students but faculty as well. Everyone here is amazing and makes the environment feel safe.

TRIO has helped because of the TRIO faculty. Sarah is always willing to help with any questions I have, and I haven’t needed one yet (don’t want to jinx myself) but it’s nice to know there are tutors and other resources available if needed.

Annalies plans to continue her education at Western Illinois University and take classes in either criminal justice or fire science.

Alex Jackson, SRC Student: First-Generation Student Feature

Current SRC Sophomore, member of TRIO and SRC Bowling Team

My college experience has been good but also stressful. It has been filled with a lot of great moments that I am extremely thankful for. TRIO has helped me through this by offering services that give me a space where I can ask for help, and get some help. They also have fun events that I can go to and learn some more. In fact, I got a crockpot and some new recipes from one of these events.

Alex’s plans beyond SRC are to transfer to a four-year university to pursue a degree in architecture.

Dr. Curt Oldfield, SRC President: First-Generation Student Feature

Dr. Curt Oldfield: President of Spoon River College – “Make college a priority; it does not last for forever, but it will make a forever difference in your life.”

I graduated from Farmington High School, and I selected Spoon River College because my SRC Agriculture Professor reached out to me and encouraged me to enroll. He provided personalized advising support. I knew nothing about attending college. It was July before I registered for my first semester of classes. However, I was fortunate to have received career planning advice and it helped me realize early that becoming a Veterinarian was not a good fit for me.  As a student, I was willing to ask questions about how my classes would transfer, where to find scholarships, and advocate for myself. It was not easy; there were times I worked 3 part-time jobs at the same time while attending SRC. I could quickly see that completing my Associate’s Degree and then my Bachelor’s Degree was essential to my future success.

SRC is a perfect place for First-Gen students to start their academic journey.  SRC faculty and staff are focused on helping students succeed.  SRC has faculty who care about teaching and learning, small class sizes, excellent academic advising, flexible course schedules, affordable tuition, and financial and academic support services that all work together to help students succeed.  SRC has been successfully preparing students to succeed in their next step since the first graduating class of 1962.

My advice for a first-generation college student is to first, be an educated advocate for yourself.  This means asking questions, utilizing resources, having goals you want to accomplish, communicating clearly, participating in student events and student organizations, researching career options, and learning from others.  Secondly, attend class. Missing 1 class can lead to a bad habit. Make college a priority; it does not last for forever, but it will make a forever difference in your life.  Finally, don’t compare your progress to others.  This is your journey, and it is unique to you.  Take as many classes as possible, do the work to get the best grades possible.  Remember if your results are different than someone else, it is ok, but stay committed to finishing the journey.

Our Community. Our Future. — #GivingSPOONday Kicks Off Season of Giving

Goal of 300 gifts by midnight Dec. 2; All Gifts Benefit SRC Students

#GivingSPOONday, Spoon River College’s version of Giving Tuesday, the worldwide day of giving that kicks off the holiday season, is Tuesday, Dec. 2.

A gift to the SRC Foundation helps students pay their tuition, but it goes beyond that. It helps fill the student needs pantries on each campus which provide non-perishable food and toiletries, provides emergency grants for students in crisis, and creates innovative educational opportunities.

One student in particular who has been helped by a SRC Foundation scholarship is Jessica Moyemont, a nontraditional student who returned to school after 17 years.

Jessica said, “This opportunity has not only benefited me personally but also my family, who see the value of education through my example. My long-term plan is to continue from Spoon River College to a four-year university, and this scholarship has helped make that path feel achievable. I am truly grateful to the Spoon River Foundation for investing in students like me. Your support is shaping not just my educational journey, but also the future I’m building for my family and community.“

The SRC Foundation has set a goal of 300 separate gifts to be raised in the campaign, which ends at 11:59 p.m. Dec. 2. The campaign promotes giving online at www.src.edu/givingtuesday, but cash or check donations are gladly accepted, too.

Spoon River College students, employees, and friends will also be sharing the campaign via email and on their social media pages. “The more people that get involved with the campaign, the more students we could potentially help,” said Dusty Berg, Director of the SRC Foundation. “For #GivingSPOONday, every gift counts toward their goal. Even a $10 donation can provide a meal for a student facing food insecurity.”

To make your gift or to learn how you can get involved, visit www.src.edu/givingtuesday, visit the Spoon River College Foundation Facebook page (www.facebook.com/spoonrivercollegefoundation), or call (309) 833-6083.

The Aspen Institute Names Spoon River College as a Top 200 U.S. Community College Eligible for the 2027 Aspen Prize

$1 Million Prize Honors Colleges Achieving Strong Student Results, Both in College and After Graduation

WASHINGTON D.C., October 28, 2025 – Today, the Aspen Institute named Spoon River College as one of the 200 institutions eligible to compete for the $1 million Aspen Prize for Community College Excellence, the nation’s premier recognition of high achievement and performance among two-year colleges. The 200 colleges were selected based on their student outcomes data, including retention, completion, transfer, and bachelor’s attainment rates. Started in 2010, this is the ninth cycle of the Aspen Prize.

Curt Oldfield, President of Spoon River College stated, “Being named to the Aspen Institute’s top 200 Community Colleges in the nation is a tremendous honor that reflects the dedication of our faculty, staff, and students who work tirelessly to provide exceptional educational opportunities. This recognition affirms our commitment to student success and the vital role of Spoon River College in strengthening the communities we serve.”

Together, these 200 colleges represent the breadth and diversity of the community college sector. They are located in urban, rural, and suburban areas across the country and serve anywhere from a few hundred students to tens of thousands. Some of these colleges focus primarily on workforce programs, while others focus on transfer and bachelor’s attainment or a combination of the two.

“The Aspen Prize rewards colleges that achieve the kind of outcomes that actually matter to students—completing college degree programs that, in turn, lead to lifelong success,” said Josh Wyner, executive director of the Aspen Institute College Excellence Program. “Aspen Prize winners offer a powerful message: Community colleges can deliver the kind of life-changing education that makes the American Dream real.”

Community colleges educate nearly six million students. Yet community college student outcomes fall short in both the rate at which students graduate and the percentage of students who achieve success after graduation. The Aspen Prize process identifies and celebrates community colleges that demonstrate that achieving stronger outcomes is possible, providing a roadmap of effective practices and strategies for other colleges to follow.

The 200 eligible colleges have been invited to submit an application and participate in a rigorous review process that will culminate in the naming of the Aspen Prize winner in spring 2027. Over the coming 20 months, the colleges that apply for the Aspen Prize will be assessed based on (1) student outcomes data, ranging from student transfer and completion rates to employment and wages after graduation and (2) whether they have engaged in scaled practices that led to high and improving student outcomes.

“Among these 200 colleges are some really special places that deliver strong and improving outcomes for students across the board,” Wyner said. “Our job over the coming 20 months is to gather a lot more data and work with a deep bench of field experts to assess which of these 200 stand out so we can not only honor them with a monetary award, but drive attention to the most effective field practices that other colleges can replicate.”

This is the first time since the inception of the Aspen Prize that 200 colleges are eligible to apply, growing from 150. This year, in addition to publicly available federal data, over 600 colleges authorized the use of National Student Clearinghouse data on their institution’s degree completion, transfer, and bachelor’s attainment rates for full- and part-time students.

The full list can be accessed on the Aspen Prize homepage. To read more about the selection process, visit as.pn/prize.

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. It serves students in a 1,566 square mile area that includes portions of Fulton, McDonough, Mason, Schuyler, and Knox counties. For more information about Spoon River College, visit www.src.edu.