Diesel and Power Systems Technology Students Awarded Scholarships

Five Spoon River College students in the Diesel and Power Systems Technology (DPST) program were awarded scholarships following a round of interviews with program faculty and members of the Diesel Advisory Board.

Advisory Board member Sam Brooks presented the awards to the following students:

Jack Godsil (Victoria), Edward R. Kaiser Scholarship for $1,500; Carter Chambers (Bushnell), Coachmen Scholarship for $1,250; Ethan Voss (Mendon), Phi Mu Tau Scholarship for $500 and a Coachmen Scholarship for $500; Kolette Slough, (Coal City, IN), Brian Telander Memorial Scholarship for $500 and a Coachmen Scholarship for $250; and Braden Hagerty (Abingdon), Harold Dare Memorial Scholarship for $450 and a Coachmen Scholarship for $200.

DPST Advisory board members and faculty members are Joe Clemens (faculty), Vance Geisendorfer, Von Geisendorfer, Sam Brooks, Eric Bunnell, Kevin Quick, Todd Thompson (faculty), Brian Friedrich, Kevin Kaiser, Danny Mahr, John Danielson, SRC President Dr. Curt Oldfield, Aaron Mayall (faculty), and Dave Andersen (faculty).

The two-year DPST program is one of the college’s longest-running career and technical education programs, offering education and training in the field of diesel power technology that culminates in an associate in applied science degree. In 2019, the College also became a certified training center for the railway industry through a partnership with NARS (National Academy of Railroad Science) and Johnson County Community College. Certificates are offered in Locomotive Mechanical, Preventive Maintenance, and Rail Transportation and Power System Technology.

For more information about the program, visit www.src.edu.

Pictured are Ethan Voss, Jake Godsil, Kolette Slough, Carter Chambers, and Braden Hagerty.

SRC Community Outreach Hosts 32nd Lifelong Learning Conference

The Spoon River College Office of Community Outreach hosted the 32^nd Lifelong Learning Conference April 11 at the Canton Campus, welcoming attendees, speakers, and resource fair vendors.

“It’s always wonderful to welcome this group of enthusiastic learners!” said Andrea Barbknecht Director of the SRC Canton Outreach Center. “It’s nice seeing old and new friends!”

Rick Klinedinst welcomed guests, and Mike Walters presented the keynote address on the history of Canton in honor of Canton’s Bicentennial Celebration that will be held June 20-29. Other sessions included AI in Everyday Life by Becca Werland, Shakespeare Goes to the Movies by Stan Ransom, Sensitive Personal Information by Cliff Magee, Introduction to Food and Wine Pairings by Brad Beam, Iran: A Personal Perspective by Frank Goudy, and Staying in the Eye of the Hurricane by Jeanine Standard.

“This event is a collaboration between our Community Leadership Academy graduates and many local experts and enthusiasts. I never cease to be amazed by the talent that is right here in our own backyard!” Barbknecht said.

The event was co-sponsored by MidAmerica National Bank. Other sponsors included Spoon River Partnership for Economic Development, The Loft Rehabilitation & Nursing Center, Spoon River Home Health Services, Western Illinois Home Health Care, Canton Bicentennial Committee, The Clayberg Nursing Center, and Advanced Rehab and Sports Medicine.

Attendees enjoyed morning refreshments and a soup and sandwich buffet that was catered by the SRC River Roast Café.

The next Lifelong Learning Conference is scheduled for Friday, October 10, 2025, and College for Kids is scheduled for June 2 – 5 of 2025.

Pictures of the event can be viewed on the Spoon River College Community Outreach Facebook page. For more information about the classes and events offered through the Office of Community Outreach, visit https://src.augusoft.net, their Facebook page, or call (309)649-6260.

Cross-country Returning to SRC with Chase Fisher as Head Coach

Spoon River College is bringing back a cross-country program, with the season set to begin in the fall. Chase Fisher has been hired as the head coach, and he has already recruited 15 incoming freshmen to be on the team.

Fisher brings coaching experience at both the high school and college level, and says he’s looking for members with a high level of commitment to be the best version of themselves they can be, and to be committed to the team. “It’s easy to buy into something when everyone around you has also bought into it, not only for results, but also for relationships.”

Fisher credits his high school coach for having that type of mindset, and for inspiring him to become a coach.

“I was lucky to be brought up through a program that was more of a family than a team, where everyone cared for each other, and fought for each other, and those relationships last forever,” said Fisher, who a decade later still talks weekly with his former coach. “And two of teammates were my groomsmen in my wedding. A family like that is what I’m striving to build at Spoon River College.”

Fisher also intends to continually expand his coaching knowledge, and recently traveled to New York City for his USA Track and Field (USATF) certification. He also noted that they will be adding track and a half-marathon to the program.

“We are excited to bring back cross-country, and excited that Coach Fisher will be leading it,” said John Bassett, athletic director and head softball coach at Spoon River College. “His experience and enthusiasm will be an invaluable resource, and we look forward to a fun and competitive first season.”

Originally from Dixon, Fisher and wife Liz will be residing in Canton, and they are expecting their first child in August. “I am excited to be a Snapper and I look forward to joining the list of successful SRC athletic teams.”

The Importance of Solar Farms and the Use of Solar Energy on College Campuses

As college campuses strive to become more sustainable and eco-friendlier, the implementation of solar farms and the use of solar energy have emerged as key solutions. Solar energy, harnessed through solar panels and solar farms, offers significant environmental and financial benefits that can play a vital role in shaping a greener future for institutions of higher learning – including Spoon River College.

One of the most compelling reasons for colleges to invest in solar energy is the positive environmental impact. Traditional sources of energy, such as fossil fuels, contribute to greenhouse gas emissions and climate change. Solar energy, on the other hand, is a clean, renewable resource that significantly reduces carbon footprints. By establishing a solar farm, we can directly contribute to global efforts to combat climate change and can reduce the college’s reliance on the local power grid, leading to lower energy bills.

For many colleges, sustainability is a key part of their mission. A solar farm aligns with these goals by reducing the campus’s reliance on non-renewable energy sources and demonstrating a commitment to environmental stewardship. Additionally, the use of solar energy sends a powerful message to students, staff, and visitors about the importance of sustainable practices and the role everyone can play in protecting the planet.

The integration of solar energy through a solar farm on our campus is a step toward a more sustainable and energy-efficient future. By reducing carbon emissions, cutting energy costs, and providing educational opportunities, solar energy contributes to the overall success of the institution and the planet. More information will be available as we break ground on this exciting initiative for 2026.

About the Aspen Institute

The Aspen Institute is a nonpartisan, nonprofit organization dedicated to fostering leadership, advancing policy, and promoting dialogue on critical issues facing society. Founded in 1949, the Institute is headquartered in Washington, D.C., and has campuses across the United States and abroad.

With a mission to drive change through values-based leadership and open dialogue, the Aspen Institute brings together leaders from business, government, education, and the nonprofit sector. Its programs and fellowships focus on a wide range of areas including education, economic opportunity, global affairs, and civic engagement.

One of its key initiatives is the College Excellence Program, which works to improve student outcomes in higher education—especially at community colleges—by promoting strong leadership and innovative practices.

Through conferences, fellowships, research, and partnerships, the Aspen Institute continues to be a respected platform for developing solutions to complex global and local challenges.

SRC and the Aspen Institute

Spoon River College participates in two prestigious programs led by the Aspen Institute’s College Excellence Program, underscoring its commitment to improving student outcomes and advancing educational equity.

In July 2024, SRC was chosen to join the 2024–2025 cohort of the Aspen-AASCU Transfer Student Success Intensive. This initiative, a collaboration between the Aspen Institute and the American Association of State Colleges and Universities (AASCU), aims to strengthen partnerships between community colleges and four-year institutions to enhance transfer student success. SRC will work alongside its partner, Western Illinois University, and other institutions to develop strategies that support equitable transfer pathways. ​

Additionally, SRC President Dr. Curt Oldfield was named an Aspen Presidents Fellow for the 2024–2025 academic year. This year-long fellowship, sponsored by JPMorgan Chase, brings together 25 community college presidents nationwide to engage in professional development focused on advancing student success. Fellows collaborate with peers and experts to analyze institutional outcomes and implement reforms that promote equitable student achievement. ​

These recognitions reflect SRC’s dedication to fostering academic excellence and providing students with opportunities for successful transfer and career advancement.

Spoon River College Faculty: Committed Educators Across Disciplines

Spoon River College boasts a dedicated and diverse faculty, both full-time faculty members and numerous adjunct instructors who provide quality education across various disciplines. The college maintains a student-faculty ratio of approximately 16-to-1, ensuring personalized attention and support for its students.

The faculty encompasses a broad range of academic and technical fields and all are committed to fostering an engaging and supportive learning environment. Their dedication to teaching excellence and student success is evident in the college’s strong academic programs and the personalized attention students receive. ​

Learn more about our faculty here Faculty Directory – Spoon River College

Dual Credit Program for High School Students

Dual Credit Program for High School Students

Spoon River College offers a robust Dual Credit Program that enables high school students to earn both high school and college credits simultaneously. This initiative provides students with a head start on their postsecondary education, offering both academic and financial advantages. ​

Program Highlights:

• Diverse Course Offerings: SRC’s dual credit courses encompass general education subjects that are transferable to four-year institutions, as well as career and technical education programs in fields like nursing, welding, and diesel technology. ​
• Flexible Enrollment Options: Students can participate in dual credit courses offered at their high schools, on SRC campuses, or online. Evening and summer classes are available, allowing students to balance their studies with other commitments.
• Cost Savings: Tuition at SRC is approximately one-third the cost of public Illinois universities and one-eighth the cost of private four-year colleges, making it a cost-effective option for early college credit.
• Scholarship Opportunities: The SRC Foundation offers dual credit scholarships to assist eligible high school students with tuition expenses. Preference is given to families with a gross annual income under $65,000 and households of four or more, though all students are encouraged to apply.
• Support Services: Dedicated Dual Credit Advisors are available to guide students through the enrollment process, placement testing, and course selection. Advisors are accessible at various SRC campuses, including Canton and Macomb. ​

For more information or to enroll in the Dual Credit Program, students should consult their high school guidance counselors or contact SRC’s Dual Credit Advisors directly or look for additional information on our Dual Credit Programs page.

Spoon River College to Open New Campus in Macomb

Spoon River College will open a new campus in Macomb in summer 2025, marking a significant step in expanding access to higher education in the region. The new facility is expected to serve as a modern hub for learning, career training, and community engagement.

The Macomb campus will offer a range of academic and vocational programs, including general education courses, healthcare certifications, and technical training. Designed with student success in mind, the campus will feature updated classrooms, labs, and resources aimed at supporting both traditional and non-traditional learners.

The new campus will strengthen partnerships with local businesses and schools, creating more opportunities for workforce development and dual-credit programs for high school students. The initiative aligns with Spoon River College’s mission to provide affordable, quality education across its service area.

The expansion highlights Spoon River College’s continued commitment to meeting the evolving needs of students and the regional economy. Click here for photos of the construction project through its multiple phases.

18th Annual Tractor Show and Car Cruise-In April 26 at Canton Campus

The 18^th Annual Tractor Show and Car Cruise-In will be held Saturday, April 26, from 9 a.m.-2 p.m. at the Spoon River College Campus in Canton.

The event is hosted by Phi Mu Tau fraternity students in the Diesel and Power Systems Technology program. Anyone who has a classic car or tractor is invited to bring or drive them to the college and be part of the show. There is no entry fee.

“This is a free, fun, casual event,” said Todd Thompson, DPST instructor and Phi Mu Tau advisor. “Bring the family and come on out. There is always a nice variety of antique vehicles and tractors, plus some new and unique ones.”

Registration will be from 9-11 a.m. Awards for best car and best tractor will be determined by fan voting and announced at 2 p.m. Raffle and 50-50 drawing winners will also be announced at 3 p.m. Food and drinks will be available for purchase.

The event is free and open to the public. In case of inclement weather, it will be held inside the VOTECH building.

The Canton Campus of Spoon River College is located at 23235 N. County Hwy 22.

SRC Hosting Job Fair May 2 at Canton Campus

A job fair will be held on Friday, May 2, from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. at the Multi-Purpose Building on the Canton Campus located at 23235 N. County Hwy 22.

Job seekers are encouraged to bring their resumes and be prepared to talk with employers on site. Event sponsors are Spoon River College, Spoon River College Office of Community Outreach, Canton Area Chamber of Commerce, and Fulton and Mason County Career Link offices.

As of press time, the following employers are registered to attend:

Heat and Control-Galesburg; Nature’s Grace & Wellness, Graham Health System, Western Illinois University Office of Public Safety, Bridgeway-Pekin, Illinois Department of Children and Family Services, Advanced Medical Transport, Cook Medical/Cook Polymer Technology, Illinois Department of Human Services, State of Illinois-Department of Central Management Services, Watco-Pittsburg, IL, Illinois Department of Healthcare and Family Services, The Loft Rehabilitation and Nursing, Illinois Department of Agriculture, Spoon River College, Illinois Department of Transportation, and the Canton Police Department.

To see the most recent list of employers attending, or to register a participating employer, visit www.src.edu and click on Career Services under the Student Services tab, or click the following link https://www.src.edu/event/2025-src-job-fair.