Posted by Sally Shields on | Comments Off on Connor McCabe: From Oklahoma to Canton to A Dream Job
“None of this would have ever happened, if it weren’t for a little college in a little town, nestled in the cornfields of Illinois. You never know where the greatest treasures lie, so look everywhere.”
Connor McCabe of Oklahoma came to Spoon River College to enroll in the Diesel and Power Systems Technology program. With a passion for all things rail related, he had a specific interest in the Locomotive Mechanical Certificate, offered through the DPST program and possible through a unique partnership with Johnson Community College and their NARS (National Academy of Railroad Sciences) certified training program. Now the 2024 graduate is back in Oklahoma working as a locomotive mechanic at South Kansas and Oklahoma RR.
“SRC’s diesel program is second to none, with the most knowledgeable and experienced mechanics you’ll ever meet. You can walk in on day one with zero knowledge of anything mechanical, and graduate with the ability to work on anything that has an engine, hydraulic system, electrical system, you name it!”
Connor’s mother posted this on the college’s FB page: “Our son graduated over a year ago. We still consider SRC an incredible school for an affordable price. He has a terrific job (secured before graduation), was trained incredibly well, and gets to earn a living doing exactly what he loves to do.”
As for leaving home and traveling 700 miles to a small rural community college, Connor had this to say: “I’m glad I came. Moving hundreds of miles away from home to a place where you know no one and no one knows you forces you to rapidly discover what you’re capable of, and who you are as a person. Don’t write the flyover states off as boring! Illinois has some of the most interesting, intelligent and hardworking people I’ve ever met, with some of neatest cities and towns, too; lots of them look like paintings waiting to be made.”
Posted by Sally Shields on | Comments Off on Ariana Reynoso Follows Her Passion for Welding
Ariana Reynoso of Colchester was only 7 years-old when her grandfather enlisted her help with a welding job on a tractor. “I was terrified, but I was also hooked.” That moment in time led her to enroll in SRC’s welding program as a dual credit student. This past May, she graduated job ready with a Basic Welding Certificate.
Ariana is no longer terrified by welding, and actually finds it calming. “It’s almost Zen-like.”
She plans to combine her passion for iron work with her passion for driving, and travel to wherever the jobs are. “I love driving and have already visited 27 states. I can talk to anyone and I make friends easily.”
A family member who had already completed SRC’s welding program—and who now works at PELLA—encouraged her to enroll. “I’m so glad I choose this program. Chuck Harris is an amazing instructor and makes it enjoyable. This class was my favorite part of the day, and I would encourage others who are interested to go for it!”
Ariana is one of the 13 dual credit students from Macomb and West Prairie high schools who completed the program. For more information about our welding program, visit Welding Program Information. For more information about our dual credit program for high school students, visit Dual Credit Information
Posted by Sally Shields on | Comments Off on Cassidy Tarter: From Canton to Montana and Living Her Dream
Cassidy Tarter is living her dream as an Associate Veterinarian at the Treasure Veterinary Service in Hysham, Montana, where she spends her days tending animals both big and small, from cattle to cats.
“My passion for animals started when I was young, and I knew then I wanted to be a veterinarian and work with animals.”
Cassidy was active in FFA during her time at Canton High School—she was recognized as a Star Chapter Farmer—and continued that passion at SRC as an active member of the National Professional Agriculture Student Association (PAS), serving as President and participating in PAS related events. One of her favorite memories of those events is of competing in the job interview category two years in a row—and winning first place both times. Cassidy has also been honored with the American FFA Degree, something less than 1% of FFA members and alumni receive.
After completing an Associate of Arts and Sciences degree and a certificate in Agricultural Precision Technology at SRC, she transferred to the WIU School of Agriculture where she was in the Sigma Alpha Professional Ag Sorority, Hoof N Horn Club, and Collegiate Farm Bureau. She graduated with a B.S. in Agricultural Science with a Minor in Chemistry. Cassidy completed her journey with a DVM degree from the University of Illinois College of Veterinary Medicine in 2023.
Her move to Montana was the result of an internship opportunity that she applied for. It was delayed one year due to COVID, but in 2021 she was finally able to complete the 3-week program, and that was enough time for her to fall in love with the state and secure permanent employment.
When not working, Cassidy can be found reading, or exploring Montana either on horseback or dirt bike. She also enjoys hiking and shed hunting with her three dogs.
Posted by Sally Shields on | Comments Off on Fall 2025 College Visit Days Scheduled at Spoon River College
Spoon River College will host College Visit Days on both the Canton and Macomb campuses. Canton dates are Tuesday, September 16, 9-11 a.m., Wednesday, October 15, 9-11 a.m., and Tuesday, December 2, 1-3 p.m.
Macomb dates are Thursday, September 18, 9-11 a.m., Monday, October 13, 9-11 a.m., and Tuesday, December 2, 9-11 a.m.
The September 16 date in Canton and the October 13 date in Macomb will feature Career and Technical Education programs.
College Visit Days are open to people of all ages who are interested in learning about both the transfer and the career education programs available at Spoon River College, including the different degrees and short-term certificates each program offers.
Attendees will hear from advisors and financial aid specialists, and receive information about the application process, tuition costs, and financial aid options, including scholarships.
Tours of the campuses will be given, and will include the Snapper Villas student housing on the Canton Campus. All attendees will receive a free t-shirt.
RSVPs are encouraged. RSVP Here or by calling 309-649-6400 (Canton) or 309-833-6069 (Macomb).
The Canton Campus is located at 23235 N. County Hwy. 22, and the Macomb Campus is located at 2500 East Jackson Street.
Posted by Sally Shields on | Comments Off on Spoon River College Online Textbook Ordering
The Spoon River College Bookstore at the Canton Campus has all the required materials and textbooks for the coming academic year, and students can now begin ordering their books and supplies online through the Bookstore.
When ordering online, students will choose the Fall term, and the department, course, and section of their class. There will be an option to choose between new, used, or rental (if available). Students will also have the option of picking up their books in Canton, Macomb, Havana, or Rushville, or to have them shipped to their home. All books will be shipped from the Canton Campus.
Starting August 11, students who have financial aid in the form of grants, scholarships, FAFSA awards, or third-party payments (such as DORS, WIA, Career Link, etc.) can use those funds for books and supplies once all tuition and fees have been paid. Shipping costs can also be paid for with financial aid. Those using third-party payments must pick up their books in person as a signature is required.
Students are encouraged to utilize the online ordering, but they can also take their schedule to the Canton Bookstore and staff will assist them in finding the correct books and materials.
Students should watch for postcards, as well as messages through Canvas, student email accounts, and texts for detailed instructions. Information about book orders will also be shared with students during orientation. For more information or assistance, call 309-649-6295 or visit the Spoon River College Bookstore
Posted by Sally Shields on | Comments Off on Fast Track Registration with Extended Hours Starts August 18
Fast Track Registration for the Fall 2025 semester at Spoon River College will begin the week of August 18 and run through the week of August 25. During that time, the college will offer extended hours of operation from 8 a.m. until 5:30 p.m. on Mondays thru Wednesdays at both the Canton and Macomb campuses. On Thursday and Fridays, the college will be open regular hours of 8 a.m. 3:30 p.m.
Regular 16-week classes and the first session of 8-week classes start August 25, and a 12-week session of classes starts September 22.
Prospective students will be able to apply, test, and register in one day. It is not necessary to make an appointment, but a valid picture ID is required. Financial Aid staff will be available during the extended hours to answer questions and assist in the aid process.
For information about financial aid options and deadlines, or enrollment in the automatic payment plan, call 309-649-7030 or visit www.src.edu.
The Canton Campus is located at 23235 North County 22 and the Macomb Campus is located at 2500 East Jackson.
For more information about the registration process or to make an appointment with an advisor, call (309) 647-6400 in Canton, (309) 543-4413 in Havana, (309) 837-6069 in Macomb, and (217) 322-6060 in Rushville. View the course schedule here
Posted by Sally Shields on | Comments Off on Student Orientations for the Fall Semester Scheduled at Canton and Macomb Campuses
In preparation for fall classes that start August 25, Spoon River College will hold orientations for new students at both the Canton and Macomb campuses.
Orientation at the new Macomb Campus will be held Tuesday, August 19, and at the Canton Campus on Wednesday, August 20, both from 9 a.m. to noon. They will begin with a welcome from President Oldfield, followed by break-out sessions and tours of the campus.
“This is an excellent way for new students to learn the lay-out of the college, where classrooms and faculty offices are located, and to receive overviews of financial aid options, student clubs, the support services available to them, and more,” said Jo Branson, assistant dean of student services.
All students will receive a free t-shirt, and a variety of door prizes will be available to win. All students will also be entered into a drawing for the chance to win a $100 Visa gift card.
“We encourage students to attend. It’s a fun way to meet other students while also getting important information, and can help alleviate any nervousness before the first day of classes,” Branson said.
Students may attend orientations at either campus, regardless of where they are enrolled. RSVP online here or by calling 309-649-6400 for Canton or 309-833-6069 for Macomb.
The Canton Campus is located at 23235 N County 22, and the Macomb Campus is located at 2500 East Jackson.
The fall session begins Monday, August 25, and there is still time to register for classes. For more information about the classes at Spoon River College and registration, visit www.src.edu here or call (309)649-6400 in Canton, (309)543-4413 in Havana, (309)833-6069 in Macomb, and (217)322-6060 in Rushville.
Posted by Sally Shields on | Comments Off on Kaylee Grebner: Spoon River College Student and Business Owner
When Kaylee Grebner graduated from Canton high school this past spring, she already had one year of college course work completed, thanks to the Running Start partnership between Canton HS and Spoon River College. While that in itself is a significant accomplishment, it’s just one of several for this busy and ambitious young woman.
Grebner is also the owner Kaylee’s Country Cupcakes, which she started when she was just 14 years old. It’s a passion she discovered at the age of nine when she began decorating cakes as a 4-H project.
Grebner, who lives in rural Glasford, said the hardest part of starting her business wasn’t the hours of baking and decorating. “It was getting all the approvals and certifications required for a food business, which in my case included having city water run to our farm.”
Kaylee’s Country Cupcakes has been a regular at the Canton Main Street Farmers Market since 2022, and Grebner also attends other local markets and events, including Graham Hospital’s Service League fundraiser (where she sells out quickly!), as well as doing custom orders. In 2024, her lemon and blueberry cupcakes earned her the Best Dessert Award at the annual Taste of Canton.
Grebner is just as dedicated to her education and extracurricular activities. As an 8th grader, she was the recipient of the Steven R. Nagle Distinguished Student of the Month Award, and in high school she was named a Golden Apple Scholar and was an Outstanding Senior Award recipient. Besides being an energetic 4-H member, Grebner was also active in FFA. Her awards included Star Green Hand, Chapter Star Farmer, and State FFA Degree candidate—something that fewer than 3% of FFA members earn. She was the District 3 winner in Food Service Entrepreneur, and state runner-up for her Food Service Entrepreneurship record book. In addition, she works full-time at Canton Family Restaurant.
Grebner will graduate next spring with her associate degree and plans to transfer to a four-year university to major in Elementary Education. Those who enjoy her cupcakes will be glad to hear that a teaching career won’t be the end of her baking career. “I look forward to teaching and will enjoy it, and I’m also glad I’ll have the summers off so I can continue to build my business!”
Grebner doesn’t do anything half-way, and somewhere in the future, a classroom full of children are going to get the best treats ever from the best teacher ever.
Shop local, support your Farmers Markets, and visit Kaylee’s Country Cupcakes on Facebook.
Running Start is a partnership between Canton High School and Spoon River College that provides an opportunity for academically qualified seniors to enroll in college classes through SRC as part of their high school coursework. This unique partnership between the Canton #66 and SRC allows high school students to attend college classes during the fall, spring, and summer while earning both high school and college credits.
Posted by Sally Shields on | Comments Off on Enrollment Open for GED® Prep Classes at Spoon River College Locations
Enrollment is currently open for free GED® prep classes at Spoon River College. The classes are offered at SRC locations in Canton, Havana, Macomb, and Rushville for those who are 17 or older and not enrolled in high school.
These classes help prepare students to take the GED® test, and students learn at their own pace. Test readiness is determined by practice test scores and instructor/advisor recommendations, and those who pass the test earn an Illinois High School Equivalency Certificate.
Chad Murphy, director of Adult Education programs, noted the strong achievements the program had over the past year, including a 15% increase in enrollment, a 10% increase in GED® sections passed, and a 26% increase in GED® earners.
“These improvements highlight the dedication of our instructors, staff, and students, and the program’s ongoing commitment to student success across the district,” Murphy said. “The numbers also represent students finding new opportunities, reaching personal goals, and building stronger futures for themselves and their families.”
Murphy noted that many students are often balancing work, family, and other challenges. “We’re proud of our students, and they continue to inspire all of us.”
Posted by Sally Shields on | Comments Off on Two Students, One Professor, 22 Years Apart
When Spoon River College Sociology professor Michael Maher was in his third year of teaching, he had a group of students in his Introduction to Cultural Anthropology class that made a profound impact on him. “This cohort of students knew each other, and they took multiple classes with me. As a relatively young and inexperienced teacher, I remember feeling a strong connection to these students who were engaged, interested, funny yet serious, and taking their education seriously.”
2002 SRC graduate Mandy Manock of Canton was one of those students. “Professor Maher was the first adult I can remember who explained the ‘adult’ world to us, and who encouraged us to question and analyze our thoughts, our society, our world.”
At the end of that semester, Maher had the students bring in a variety of items to put in a time capsule that was then buried in the college’s Arboretum. “I wanted to celebrate them, and create an excuse to reunite with them in twenty years.” In 2022, several of those students—including Manock—did return to unearth the capsule with their former professor.
Fast forward to 2024, and Maher is now a seasoned professor who has made it a habit to always have music playing while students are arriving to class. One of those students, Logan Clardy, developed the habit of arriving early for all of his classes in order to enjoy one-on-one conversations with his professors, and Maher was one of those professors. “We instantly bonded while talking about music, but I soon realized his interests and depth of knowledge went far beyond music,” Maher said.
At around the fifth week of the semester, Maher was dumbfounded when Clardy told him that Mandy Manock was his mother. “It felt surreal to have made such a strong and meaningful connection with the son of a former student from 22 years prior, who I had also felt such a strong connection with. By the time Logan took his second class with me, it was evident what a special student he was and what a remarkable son Mandy had raised.”
Manock, who went on to earn a Bachelor’s in Elementary Education and a Masters in Instruction and Technology, has taught 3rd grade at Lincoln Elementary in Canton for the past seven years and plans to earn a second Masters in Curriculum and Instruction. “I was proud that my son decided to begin his collegiate journey at my Alma Mater, and I enjoy having the opportunity to share stories with him about our times at Spoon River College.”
Clardy, who was a member of Phi Theta Kappa and the Speech and Debate team while at SRC, graduated this past May. He will begin at ISU in the fall to major in Audio Production, and he dreams of working as a producer and sound engineer. He said “all the amazing professors” were his favorite thing about SRC.
“While I didn’t enjoy my high school experience, at SRC I was surrounded by kind, supportive, and genuine professors who have invigorated my love for knowledge and instilled a deep sense of self-efficacy in me that I am grateful for. The one-on-one conversations I had with them was often the highlight of my day.”
Maher says he remembers Manock as somewhat shy but insightful and caring, whereas Clardy is gregarious but also insightful and caring. He is also among the most intelligent, thoughtful, engaged, and kind students I’ve taught, regularly introducing information, history, and concepts he learned in other classes to illuminate the discussion in my Racial and Ethnic Relations class. Students like Mandy and Logan make me hopeful that a better future is possible.”
Maher wasn’t the only professor that Manock had an impression on. “I took a song from one of my favorite bands, Dashboard Confessional, to my poetry course. The professor, Doug Okey, liked it so much that he and Communications professor Bob Gorg went to one of their concerts!”
