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 Amanda Koll of Canton, 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.

While at SRC, Koll was actively involved in TRIO, Phi Theta Kappa, Students for Environmental Action, Student Government Association, Gay Straight Alliance, and the SRC Theatre Artists Group for Education. She also volunteers at the Fulton County Humane Society, Helping Hands, and other community programs. Koll plans to transfer to Western Illinois University to pursue a degree in social work, with a specialty in crisis work.

The Career and Technical Student Achievement Award was presented to Alyssa Gilstrap of Farmington. She is known for consistently offering support and encouragement to classmates and being a reliable resource to others whenever possible.

Gilstrap completed the Licensed Practical Nurse certificate at SRC several years ago and is now earning her Associate Degree in Nursing. She was credited for excelling in her studies and building her knowledge in nursing, and described as a dedicated student who worked hard, gave 110%, and set an example of success and professionalism for the SRC nursing program.

In addition, two Pay It Forward scholarships for up to $5,000 each were awarded to Ryleigh Moser of Canton and Shyler White of Havana. These awards were introduced last year 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.

Image of Student Achievement winner Amanda Koll pictured with President Oldfield at SRC Commencement Amanda Koll                            Image of Student Achievement recipient Alyssa Gilstrap pictured with President Oldfield at SRC Commencement Alyssa Gilstrap

Pay It Forward Scholarship Recipient Alyssa Gilstrap with President Oldfield at SRC Commencement  Ryleigh Moser                         Pay It Forward Scholarship recipient Shyler White with President Oldfield at SRC Commencement Shyler White

 

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