Posted by ONEFIRE Development on | Comments Off on Registration Open for Free GED Classes Beginning October 18
Registration is now open for free GED preparation classes that begin October 18 at Spoon River College in Canton, Havana, Macomb, and Rushville. These classes are offered through the college’s Adult Education program.
In addition to offering classes, Spoon River College partners with Career Link in Canton to offer the Out-of-School Youth program, which specifically targets those aged 17-24 who reside in Fulton and Mason counties and who meet the criteria for enrollment. In McDonough and Schuyler counties, they partner with LWIA14 to offer the program.
Besides partnering with community agencies, staff in the Adult Ed program at Spoon River College also aid GED completers with transitioning to a career and technical program and college classes.
“My favorite thing about my job is helping people discover their true potential,” said Melissa Koke, advisor for the program. “It is amazing to watch the students transform through learning and growing. We have fantastic instructors who genuinely care about the students, and even during the pandemic, we had 34 students graduate.”
An appointment with an Adult Education advisor is required to enroll. Call (309) 649-6278 to make an appointment. Call 309-649-6278 to make an appointment.
Posted by ONEFIRE Development on | Comments Off on Graham Health System Scholarship Applications Now Available Through SRC Foundation
Applications for the Graham Health System Scholarship for the Advancement of Rural Healthcare at Spoon River College are now available for students intending to enter healthcare programs or several other programs at SRC. Both current and prospective students are encouraged to apply.
In exchange for a scholarship which may cover the entire cost of tuition, fees, books, materials, and potentially other expenses, the recipient will agree to work for Graham Health System for a period of time after graduation and licensure.
“We remain extraordinarily grateful to Graham Health System for their foresight and leadership,” said Colin Davis, Executive Director of the SRC Foundation. “Healthcare professionals in particular are one of the economy’s greatest needs right now, but the up-front cost to education and licensure can be a large barrier. As one of the largest employers in our area, Graham is leading the way and making a big commitment to both our students and the local economy. This is an incredible opportunity for local students.”
Prospective applicants may visit www.src.edu/grahamscholarship to download the application and view all requirements to qualify and all steps to apply.
Though the scholarship is available on a rolling basis, students who wish to be considered for the Spring 2022 semester should complete all requirements to apply by Oct. 31, 2021. Students who apply after that date may be considered beginning in future semesters.
Eligible programs of study at SRC include, but are not necessarily limited to: Nursing, Health Information Management, Computer Information Systems, Culinary Management, Emergency Medical Technician, Pharmacy Technician, Industrial Maintenance, and all related degree/certificate programs.
Posted by ONEFIRE Development on | Comments Off on 2021 SRC/CCC Alumni Award Recipients Announced
Spoon River College will host its Annual Alumni Association Awards Reception on Saturday, Nov. 6 from 5-8 p.m. Dinner will be offered beginning at 5 p.m., and the program will begin at 6 p.m. The event is scheduled to be held in the Student Center, Downstairs Centers Hall, on SRC’s Canton Campus.
The Distinguished Alumni Award, reserved for those SRC alumni who have previously been honored with an alumni award and have reached the top of their field or otherwise achieved extremely noteworthy accomplishments of statewide notoriety, will be presented to Pam Wilson of Texas, whose accomplishments and contributions to public health have been internationally recognized.
Alumni Achievement Awards are given to alumni to celebrate outstanding achievements made by alumni of SRC or Canton Community College, and this year’s recipients are Nancy Anderson (Ohio), Klinton Briney (California), Scott Brown (Canton), Brian Fengel (Bartonville), Chris Helle (Farmington), and Lindsey Larson (Canton).
The Outstanding Service Award, given to alumni who have made significant voluntary contributions to mankind in general and/or to the college will be presented to Paula Grigsby, Executive Director of the Canton Family YMCA and an SRC graduate.
Former SRC faculty Dr. Roland Pettit will be honored with the Distinguished Spoon River College Retiree Award, which is based upon an individual’s significant contributions to Spoon River College, its students, and the community.
The 1964 CCC Baseball Team will be inducted into the SRC Athletic Hall of Fame, and the SRC Athletic Hall of Fame Class of 2022 will be announced at the event.
Though donations will be accepted and appreciated, the event is free, and the public is invited to attend; though, reservations are required. Social distancing will be enacted to the extent possible, and masks will be required when not eating. Please RSVP to Lori Murphy at (309) 649-6260 or at lori.murphy@src.edu by Friday, Oct. 29. Additional information on how to view the ceremony remotely will be announced in the coming weeks.
The SRC Alumni Association exists as a function of the SRC Foundation and seeks to close the gap between past alumni, present students and future leaders. SRC alumni need not be graduates. To learn more about the SRC Alumni Association or to register as an alumnus/alumna, please visit https://www.src.edu/alumni or call (309) 649-6260.
Posted by ONEFIRE Development on | Comments Off on SRC Foundation Golf Outing Raises Over $23,000
The 28th annual Spoon River College Foundation Golf Outing was held on Friday, July 30 at Wee-Ma-Tuk Hills Country Club. This year’s outing raised more than $23,000.
“Given these uncertain times where times remain difficult for many, having the success we had with our outing is incredible,” said SRC Foundation Director Colin Davis. “Times remain difficult for many within our student body, too, and every dollar raised will help local students have the best educational experience possible at SRC.”
In all, over 60 businesses and organizations from the SRC District and beyond sponsored the outing, and 26 teams competed in the event.
“We tried to keep the pressure off our local businesses given all that they have had to endure this year,” said Davis. “But that didn’t stop them. We owe a debt of gratitude to all of our sponsors, and especially our Ace Sponsors: Corporate Clean, Cook Medical/CFC Inc., CTS Group, the Odendahl Family, Randy & Susie McMillen/RE/MAX, Unland Companies, and 94.1 BYS/Q98.1.”
Golfers this year were treated to lunch, a SRC-themed t-shirt, and the opportunity to compete for the coveted championship. This year’s winners, with scores of 18-under, were Teams Coleman and Town and Country Insurance. The Very Most Average Team award, given to the team which finishes closest to the average score that day, went to Team Dalpiaz, who finished at 10-under and won a coin toss to determine the winner.
Golfers also had the opportunity to compete for skill prizes on every hole. While these are normally prizes donated by local businesses, the SRC Foundation chose this year to purchase Chamber Bucks from the Canton Area Chamber of Commerce.
“Each year, we ask our local businesses to step up for us, and the last two years, we’ve thought it was important for us to show our support for them,” said Davis. “Chamber Bucks ensure that local businesses will see direct benefit from our outing, and we were proud to support Wee-Ma-Tuk by hosting our outing at Fulton County’s only golf course.”
The SRC Foundation raises funds to support scholarships, programs and facilities at Spoon River College. Funds from the 2019 and 2020 outings helped to provide emergency hardship grants to SRC students who lost income or had unexpected expenses due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Funds raised at this year’s outing will help the SRC Foundation meet similar needs during this academic year as needs arise.
“The support of our communities means everything to us and to our students in a normal year,” said Davis, “but in this time where our students’ need is greater than ever, the support of our sponsors and teams means even more.”
Next year’s event is tentatively scheduled on the event’s traditional date of the last Friday in July – July 29, 2022. To learn more about the SRC Foundation, call (309) 649-6260, e-mail foundation@src.edu, or go to www.src.edu/foundation.
Town and Country: Jeremy Kauzlarich, Justin White, Bill Bequeaith,and Jeff Coultas
Coleman: Al Coleman, Tim Merna, Don Heller, and Chuck Taylor.
Posted by ONEFIRE Development on | Comments Off on SRC Community Chorus Begins Rehearsals for 2021 Winter Concert
Following a very successful video concert in December 2020, the SRC Community Chorus returns to live performance with Silver Songs & Golden Gifts, directed by John L. Davis, on December 4 and 5, 2021. Rehearsals begin Thursday, September 30 at 6:30 p.m. at the First Christian Church in Canton.
The concert includes a variety of sacred songs such as Hallelujah, Go Where I Send Thee, and Angelus ad Virginem. Secular songs of the winter holiday season will also be featured, including a unique arrangement of The 12 Days of Christmas, arranged by Straight No Chaser, All I Want for Christmas is You, and Zat You, Santa Claus? Embedded within the performance is an original dramatic and musical interpretation of O. Henry’s classic short story The Gift of the Magi.
“Anyone with a love of singing is invited to be a part of the Chorus,” says John Davis. “We do not require auditions and our concert’s unique programming offers something for everyone.”
Rehearsals will follow strict pandemic protocols including distancing and masking when inside the church.
Posted by ONEFIRE Development on | Comments Off on SRC Community Chorus Begins Rehearsals for 2021 Winter Concert
Following a very successful video concert in December 2020, the SRC Community Chorus returns to live performance with Silver Songs & Golden Gifts, directed by John L. Davis, on December 4 and 5, 2021. Rehearsals begin Thursday, September 30 at 6:30 p.m. at the First Christian Church in Canton.
The concert includes a variety of sacred songs such as Hallelujah, Go Where I Send Thee, and Angelus ad Virginem. Secular songs of the winter holiday season will also be featured, including a unique arrangement of The 12 Days of Christmas, arranged by Straight No Chaser, All I Want for Christmas is You, and Zat You, Santa Claus? Embedded within the performance is an original dramatic and musical interpretation of O. Henry’s classic short story The Gift of the Magi.
“Anyone with a love of singing is invited to be a part of the Chorus,” says John Davis. “We do not require auditions and our concert’s unique programming offers something for everyone.”
Rehearsals will follow strict pandemic protocols including distancing and masking when inside the church.
Posted by ONEFIRE Development on | Comments Off on Spoon River College Hosting College Night 2021 on October 5
Spoon River College will host College Night 2021 on Tuesday, October 5 from 5:30−7 p.m. in Lower Centers on the Canton Campus. This is an opportunity for high school students, parents, and adult learners to meet with representatives from different colleges, universities, and trade schools.
“This is an excellent opportunity to explore a variety of colleges, all in one place and at one time,” said Brandi Ketcham, student advisor at Spoon River College. “Representatives will be able to answer questions regarding admission requirements, the registration process, tuition, room and board, athletics, student activities, and more.”
As of press time, the following colleges were scheduled to participate:
Bradley University, Carl Sandburg College, Columbia College, Eastern Illinois University, Eureka College, Graham Hospital School of Nursing, Greenville University, Illinois College, Iowa Wesleyan University, Lincoln College, McKendree University, Quincy University, SIU-Edwardsville, U of I-Springfield, US Air Force, US Merchant Marine Academy, US Navy, Western Illinois University, and Western Illinois University-Military Science.
Spoon River College tables will include Admissions/Advising, Financial Aid, Transfer Programs, Agricultural Business Management, Commercial Driver Training, Computer Information Systems, Diesel and Power Systems Technology, Early Childhood Development, Emergency Medical Technician, Health Information Management, Logistics Operations Management, Medical Laboratory Technician, Natural Resources and Conservation, Nursing, Nursing Assistant, Small Business Management, Welding, and Student Life Organizations.
Spoon River College is located at 23235 N County 27 in Canton.
Posted by ONEFIRE Development on | Comments Off on First College Visit Day Held, Two More Planned
Spoon River College hosted the first of three College Visit Days on September 13 at both the Canton and Macomb campuses. Prospective students and parents were able to talk with advisors, get the facts on financial aid options, and learn about the support resources that are available for students, including tutoring, counseling, and disability support services. Transfer education and career programs offered by Spoon River College were also highlighted.
Two more College Visit Days are scheduled for Tuesday, October 12, and Wednesday, November 17 from 9−11:30 a.m. in Canton and Macomb. These events are for people of all ages, and high school students using a college visit day will be provided with a letter confirming their attendance at the event. Tours of the campuses will be given, and will include the Multi-Purpose Building and Snapper Villas student housing on the Canton Campus. All attendees will receive a free t-shirt.
RSVP online at src.edu/collegevisit to choose your preferred date. Masks are required at Spoon River College for all students, staff, and visitors.
The Canton Campus is located at 23235 N. County Hwy. 22, and the Macomb Campus is located at 208 S. Johnson Street.
Posted by ONEFIRE Development on | Comments Off on Summer 2021 Graduates
Spoon River College congratulates the following individuals who have completed graduation requirements and received degrees and/or certificates during the 2021 summer semester.
Abingdon: Ethan Fowler, Associate in Applied Science degree/Diesel and Power Systems Technology
Adair: Jaimie A. Beal, Associate in General Studies degree
Astoria: Breckon K. McKinney, Associate in Arts degree/Early Childhood Education certificate
Augusta: Sydnee Marie George: Practical Nursing certificate
Banner: Katy Bucco, Practical Nursing certificate
Bardolph: Ethan C. Stambaugh, Associate in Applied Science/Computer Information Systems degree, Computer Information Technology, Computer and Network Technician, and Cyber Security certificates
Bath: Jacob Blakeley, Associate in Arts degree
Beardstown: Amber Chisholm, Associate Degree in Nursing
Blandinsville: Jennifer Rodeffer, Associate Degree in Nursing
Canton: Regina L. Featherston, Medical Coding certificate; Faith Marie Haley, Associate in Science degree; Amanda Lynn Hedges, Associate in Arts degree; Mackenzie Hess, Associate in Science degree; Tessie D. Hilton, Associate Degree in Nursing; Alizé Hoffman, Associate in Arts degree; Cassidy Anne Locke, Practical Nursing Certificate; Brandon McGraw, Computer User Support Specialist certificate; Tarah Ann Murphy, Practical Nursing certificate; MacKenzie Rhoads, Practical Nursing certificate; Reynalda Roger, Associate Degree in Nursing; Hannah Snook, Associate in Arts degree; Mackenzie R. Stockham, Associate in Arts degree; Ciara Tedrick, Early Childhood Education certificate; Hunter Varnes, Associate in General Studies degree
Chicago: Christian Gilkey, Associate in Arts degree; Daja S. Williams, Associate Degree in Nursing
Colchester: Emerald L. DeWitt, Practical Nursing certificate; Torie Kreps, Associate Degree in Nursing; Emily Richardson, Associate in Arts degree; Eric Zimmerman, Basic Commercial Driver Training certificate
Creve Coeur: Shelby K. Null, Associate in General Studies degree
Cuba: Taylor Ann Sims, Practical Nursing certificate
Dunfermline: Ann E. Lockhart, Associate Degree in Nursing
East Peoria: Tiffany Shankle, Associate in General Studies degree
Essex: Nathan Joseph Smith, Associate in Arts degree
Farmington: Mary Patricia Rose, Practical Nursing certificate
Havana: Ruth A. Hackney, Associate in Applied Science/Health Information Management degree, Medical Assistant, Medical Insurance/Billing, and Medical Records certificates; Reggan Hall, Associate in Arts degree; Mary King, Practical Nursing certificate
Humble, TX: Rayna D. Davis, Associate in Arts degree
Jim Thorpe, PA: Brittany A. Wegrzynowicz, Associate in Arts degree
Lewistown: Nick Hebb, Basic Commercial Driver Training certificate; Dorinda Lange, Computer Information Technology and Computer User Support Specialist certificates; Brooke Massingale, Practical Nursing certificate
Littleton: Alex Triplett, Associate in Applied Science/Computer Information Systems degree
London Mills: Jessica Lynn Tompkins, Associate in Arts degree
Macomb: Nicole Lynn Ackley, Medical Assistant certificate; Candace Bainter, Associate Degree in Nursing; Christian M. Brewer, Advanced Welding certificate; Abigail L. Cebuhar, Associate in Arts degree; Kaitlyn R. Ellis, Associate in Arts degree; Kelsey Flynn, Associate in Arts degree; Tori Marie Fosdyck, Associate in Applied Science/Health Information Management degree, Medical Assistant, Medical Insurance/Billing, and Medical Records certificate; Jordan Graham, Associate in Arts degree; Megan Diane-Gale Kokoszka, Associate Degree in Nursing; Angela Locke-Bowen, Early Childhood Education certificate; Madison Merritt, Practical Nursing certificate; Alexandrea Neve, Practical Nursing certificate; Timothy Pollock, Associate in Applied Science/Computer Information Systems degree; Dustin L. Shinn, Associate Degree in Nursing; Devon Simpson, Associate in Applied Science/Health Information Management degree, Medical Assistant, Medical Insurance/Billing, Medical Records, and Phlebotomy Technician certificates; Dana L. Wesley, Practical Nursing certificate
Memphis, TN: Chancey Jackson, Associate in Science degree
Montrose: IA: Danielle Marie Birdsell, Associate Degree in Nursing
Mt. Sterling: Kara M. Taylor, Practical Nursing certificate
Normal: Desmond Dion Boyd, Associate in Arts degree
Oneida: Tina Fogleson, Associate in Science degree
Pekin: Emily Knaus, Practical Nursing certificate
Rosevill: Kevin C. Holliger, Basic Commercial Driver Training certificate
Rushville: Stacy R. Demaree, Associate in Arts degree; Lillian A. Fisher, Associate in Arts degree
St. David: Caleb Michael Keithley, Associate in Science degree
Springfield: Gracie L. Henrikson, Associate in Arts degree
St. Louis, MO: Alexander Schmidt, Associate in Applied Science/Diesel and Power Systems Technology degree
Tinley Park: Mark T. Garcia, Jr., Associate in Science degree
Trophy Club, TX: Dianna Juliusson, Associate in General Studies degree
Vermont: Leslie A. Kessler, Associate Degree in Nursing
Posted by ONEFIRE Development on | Comments Off on Workforce Development Programs at SRC Get a Boost with $1.5M EDA Grant
In May, Spoon River College officials learned that the college would be receiving $1.5M in CARES Act Recovery Assistance to boost its workforce development programs. That boost will be in the form of new training equipment and renovations of the college’s Vocational and Technical Education Center (VOTECH) over the next three years.
Advanced Manufacturing, Agriculture, Commercial Driver Training (CDT), and Diesel and Power Systems Technology (DPST) programs are among those slated for the updates.
“Almost all local, regional, and national skilled trades are suffering from a skills gap in the talent pipeline. The jobs are there, but the skilled workforce is not,” said Brad O’Brien, dean of career and workforce education at Spoon River College.
O’Brien noted that it is predicted there will be three million job openings in the US in skilled trades by 2028. “Our goal is to provide training with more technologically updated equipment in order to close the gap, feed that talent pipeline, and give our students the skills that will lead to them being successful.”
Students in the Ag program will benefit from a new tractor with auto steer capability, allowing expansion of the existing precision technology program. “These tractors have become a staple in the agricultural world and provide multiple benefits to farmers working their fields, including taking the human error out of the equation,” O’Brien said.
Truck driving continues to be a high demand career, and the current fleet of tractors and trailers in the CDT program will be replaced over time with more modern equipment. “The demand for truck drivers is only going to increase, and it’s also a high wage earner. We’ll be able to give our students an updated look into the future of the field of truck driving,” said O’Brien.
As with Ag and CDT, the Diesel and Power Systems Technology program will also become more modernized. The grant will provide more technologically modern diesel engines for training purposes, allowing students to learn diagnostics and trouble-shooting on a higher level.
“The updated engines, with their functioning diesel emissions after-treatment components, will give students an enhanced hands-on training experience, as will use of diagnostic software,” said Joe Clemens, DPST instructor. “There could also be the possibility of being able to offer additional training certificates to our students, making them even more preferred by employers and capable of filling the numerous job opportunities that are available.”
New welding booths and manufacturing/robotics training simulators will be purchased for the Advanced Manufacturing program to expand the current program as well as contribute to the development of newer areas within manufacturing.
The VOTECH building itself will also receive an upgrade with new ventilation and exhaust systems plus an overhead crane in the shop area, geothermal in the offices and classrooms, radiant heat, new overhead doors, LED lights, a new air compressor and large fans. A Mezzanine will also be constructed in the diesel tool area.
These career training programs can be completed in two years or less.
O’Brien said that college officials regularly meet with local and regional workforce representatives. “We have to stay current on industry needs and modern technology as we prepare students for the jobs that are available now, as well as for future jobs that don’t even exist yet.”
“While other sectors have struggled during the pandemic, the skilled trades have remained strong throughout and are expected to do so post-pandemic. The workforce shortage they are experiencing had begun before the pandemic as the number of new workers lagged behind the number of those retiring. The jobs will be there, and skilled workers will be needed,” said O’Brien.
