Illinois Valley Community College’s Board of Trustees learned about campus activities, new SGA members, employee recognition, and potential remodeling at their April meeting.
To begin the meeting, the board was presented with an update on current events happening at IVCC
Sophomore elections for the 2024-2025 Illinois Valley Community College Student Government Association took place on April 4 and 5 in the Student Life Space.
A total of 83 ballots were cast across the board.
Emma Garretson was selected as the 2024-2025 Student Trustee with 75 votes.
Daniel Sack was selected as SGA President with 44 votes.
Avah Moriarty was selected as SGA Vice-President with 61 votes.
Cooper Spears was selected as Treasurer with 71 votes.
Emelina Coss was selected as Secretary with 72 votes.
Ashton Watkins was selected as representative on the SGA programming board.
The write in candidate for Sophomore Representative and Sophomore Programming Board will be announced once confirmed.
Student Activities Coordinator Cory Tomasson says, “The current members of the SGA have been very active and have represented the student body in a professional and mindful manner.”
In regards to the new SGA members, he added, “I think that they will pick right up where the out-going members left off. Since we have a few candidates that are returning as sophomore members, the transition should be seamless.”.
Counselor Debbie Burch of Peru was selected recently by colleagues as the winner of Illinois Valley Community College’s 2024 Outstanding Part Time Faculty Award.
Burch has been employed at IVCC since 1981, starting as a counselor for BEST/Job Training Partnership Program and most recently as Counselor in the Counseling Center. She was nominated by student and Counseling Center Administrative Assistant Lynn Keyt and by fellow Counselor Valery Calvetti.
“Debbie shows great expertise when guiding her students through the difficult beginnings of the col-
lege journey and along their journey ... and encourages them as they go off on their next adventure,” Keyt wrote in her nomination.
“Debbie encourages experiential learning by providing a listening and safe environment – offering her input while inviting them to explore,” Calvetti wrote.
“When a student is seated in front of Debbie, they feel listened to, supported and, most importantly, respected.”
Burch recalls receiving a sticker with a slogan she cherishes to this day because it sums up her philosophy.
“Advising is teaching,” it reads.
“These simple words ring true to what I aspire to do with students. They enter my office with very different levels of knowledge toward their college careers. My responsibility is to help them learn wherever they are in the advising process. I provide information. I help the student apply it. I show each one how they can find information when they leave my office. They can then take ownership of their college career.
“With this method I advise and teach. The student learns,” she added.
Burch was honored at employee recognition night.
These events include the student art show, the “Tootsie” musical production, IVCC’s employee recognition event, and the Explore IVCC open house.
IVCC’s board also received an overview of upcoming events taking place at the college.
Upcoming events include:
• Thursday, April 25 100th Aniversary Celebration at 6:30 p.m.
• Monday, April 29 Choir Concert at 7 p.m.
• Tuesday, April 30 Jazz Ensemble at 7 p.m.
• Wednesday, May 1 Guitar/Piano Recital at 7 p.m.
• Thursday, May 2 Wind Ensemble at 7 p.m.
• Saturday, May 18 Nursing Pinning at 11 a.m. in the Cultural Centre
• Saturday, May 18 Commencement at 1:30 p.m. in the Gym
• Wednesday, May 22 Adult Education Recognition at 6:30 p.m. in the Cultural Centre
• Friday, May 31 Pistol Shrimp IVCC Alumni Night
Most of the musical night events will be in the Dr. Mary Margaret Weeg Cultural Centre.
Spring 2024 enrollment
resulted in a 5.1 percent increase in overall headcount, college officials said.
Statewide, 36 out of 48 community colleges also saw an increase in headcount enrollment.
The American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) in partnership with the LaSalle County Board and ROE has provided a total of $49,500 to students in CNA, EMT, and RN/LPN programs. These scholarships are expected to expand to $76,500 for the upcoming spring semester. .
Student Trustee Libby Boyles gave updates on sports events, the SGA student picnic, the upcoming Wellness Series, and recruiting new SGA members before receiving a stan.
Boyles received a standing ovation from the Board of Trustees since it was her last meeting as student trustee.
“She has been instrumental in providing the student perspective related to plans, programs, and policies as well as through her monthly reports, which have directly benefited the future of Illinois Valley Community College,” president Tracy Morris said.
The financial plan regarding the purchase of a CNC mini mill simulator was approved by the members of the board as well.
Amber Robertson was recognized for receiving the Outstanding Full-Time Faculty Member Award.
Deborah Burch was also recognized for receiving the Outstanding Adjunct Faculty Member Award.
Jill Wohrley received the Support Staff Award.
IVCC plans to make adjustments for the science lab after hearing feedback from students and staff.
Short term and long term fixes are being considered, but the Board of Trustees plans to revisit the subject in May with an architect concept design.
Tina Hardy, coordinator of the Center for Accessibility and Neurodiversity, partnered with students to speak on notable women in disability history.
On March 21, Hardy, in collaboration with students shed light on some remarkable figures and issues within the realm of disability rights. Hardy began with a call for attention to historical landmarks and their relevance, urging the audience to reflect on their knowledge of disability rights.
As a lifelong advocate in the field, Hardy acknowledged her expertise while inviting contributions from others. “I’ve worked on disability rights my whole life; however, I am not an expert on disability rights,” said Hardy.
Then, Hardy played a video that included archival footage which showcased civil rights protests and highlighted the historical context of eugenics, where disability was viewed through a lens of deficiency rather than diversity.
Hardy emphasized the relatively recent passage of laws like the Americans with Disabilities Act, also known as the ADA, in 1990, underscoring the significance of these legal protections in shaping her own career trajectory.
“1990, to me, feels like a really short time ago but it’s not that long ago when we look at civil rights history. It’s because those laws are passed that I’m here,” Hardy stated.
Throughout the speech, Hardy spotlighted notable women whose activism resonates across intersecting identities. She mentioned figures like Helen Keller, Barbara Jordan, Marsha P. Johnson, and Temple Grandin. “I chose these people because it shows intersectionality,” Hardy said.
Hardy discussed Keller’s promotion of positive aspects
of blindness, Jordan’s political achievements, Johnson’s intersectional approach to activism, and Grandin’s portrayal of autism showcasing different perspectives on disability rights.
Two student speakers, both with disabilities, also presented and gave insight on living with a disability in today’s world.
They highlighted Isabelle Grant, who advocated for inclusive education, and Dorothea Lange, whose photography captured the struggles of marginalized communities, including individuals with disabilities.
Hardy emphasized the importance of ongoing advocacy and awareness by discussing figures like Judy Heumann, who played a major role in the 504 sit-in, and Alice Wong, who is a prolific writer.
Hardy also mentioned that Wong’s book will be used for OBOC next year, which she stated was “huge.”
Lizzy, a student with autism, shared her concerns about employment and financial stability. “There is a lot of stigma around disabilities. It’s scary when you’re trying to get a job and it’s very stressful to think about,” said Lizzy.
Hardy concluded, “I do want to reiterate that while things have come a long way there is a lot of work to be done,” said Hardy.
She stated that for women with disabilities, college completion is increasing, unemployment rates are doubled, mental distress is greater, and they earn less than women without disabilites.
“I know a lot of people who haven’t had the opportunity to have a job. I’m looking to star internships to give those people the opportunity to get their foot in the door,” said Hardy.
Hardy closed by by saying that she hoped everything they highlighted during the speech will help listeners “light the spark.”
IVCC continues its 100th anniversary celebration at 6:30 p.m. Thursday, April 25 in the Mary Margaret Weeg Cultural
Nursing instructor Amber Robertson of Seneca is the winner of IVCC’s 2024 Stephen Charry Memorial Award for Teaching Excellence.
Robertson was nominated by student Ella Gilbertson, who wrote: “Each week after clinicals we discuss what we would like to do in the next clinical. Amber has us set our goal and she ensures we make it.
She has constructive criticism to try to make us the best nurses we can be. She makes sure we understand what she’s teaching ... and is very open to questions and will explain until we completely understand the concept.”
Robertson said she is
Jill Wohrley of Mendota is the winner of Illinois Valley Community College’s Connie Dzierzynski Skerston Memorial Award for Support Staff Distinguished Service.
Wohrley, the College’s Financial Aid Compliance Specialist, was nominated by Financial Aid Director Isamar Taylor, retired Financial Aid Advisor Ida Brown and the financial aid team.
“Jill has been a driving force that guided the office through challenging months without a permanent director/staff, which showcased her exceptional leadership,” nominators wrote. “The Financial Aid Office was able to maintain efficiency and productivity during our transitional period ... because of her unwavering dedication.”
moved and humbled to be chosen for the award
She added, “I strive to give my students 100 percent and assist them with all parts of their education, so this award really helped to justify that I might be doing this right!”
Whether teaching or nursing, Robertson said her philosophy blends care, compassion, critical thinking and assistance.
A nursing program graduate, Robertson returned to teach in 2018, first as an adjunct instructor and then full-time.
She advises the Student Nursing Association. She continues to work part-time as a compliance auditor for OSF Health Care.
“I feel incredibly honored to have won an award for which I was nominated by my team and then voted on by my co-workers,” Wohrley said. Though she never met Skerston, “to have won an award in her name is a very meaningful and special moment I will never forget.”
Wohrley began her IVCC career in 2016 as an Academic Support Technologist. Two years later, she became a financial aid advisor and became compliance specialist last year.
Wohrley and fellow nominees Chad Brokaw, Juliana Dzurisin, Lynn Ewing-Teegardin, Steve Mazzorana, Marlene Merkel, Diane Scoma, and Manessa Trench, were honored April 4 at IVCC’s employee recognition reception.
Growing up in a family dedicated to civic duty, IVCC Geology Instructor Mile Phillips was immersed in the world of local politics at a young age.
“From the time I was like, I don’t know, 10, I was doing at least minor campaign work at the courthouse on election night, watching the returns come in, so I’ve just always pretty much always been doing it,” Phillips said.
Phillip’s dad held office in Will County, so he was introduced the basics of elections at an early age.
Phillips has helped foster an interest in politics in IVCC students, as adviser of the IVCC College Democrats club.
Phillips said, “One of the things I want students to see is how their participation matters, and it doesn’t matter to me which party they participate in because the more young people that are involved in the system, the more likely politicians on either side of the aisle — no
Students who are interested in joining the newspaper staff are asked to apply for editorial positions for 20242025.
Emma Coss of Ottawa will return as the IV Leader editor in chief.Student positions available include editors for opinion, arts and sports sections as well as photo, social media and multimedia editors.
Students who would like to learn more about serving on the newspaper staff should email adivser Lori Cinotte at lori_cinotte@ivcc.edu.
matter what their stripe is — are going to be paying more attention if young people are involved.”
Phillips’ work in education and his lifelong experience in local politics would combine when he became involved in the College Democrat Club.
Phillips’ goals of inspiring the next generation to make their voices heard has succeeded not only in the IVCC student body, but also also in the aspirations of his children.
Phillips’ daughter Morgan is now running for state representative in District 105.
“He encouraged me and my brother to know what’s going on and be involved.
“He gave me a strong ethic on civic engagement,”Morgan Phillips said.
“I was thinking about what kind of student organization I could sponsor,” he said. “I’ve always been really interested in getting students more involved sooner
Submitted photo
IVCC professor Mike Phillips (back left) and students from the College Democrats (seated) visit with U.S. Rep. Lauren Underwood at a political event.
“What happens is young people are not very politically engaged,” he added. “It’s a pretty low percentage for 18 to 24 year olds, but you get up to people in their 50s and 60s, it’s a pretty high percentage and you can see the impact of that on things like funding.”
On her shared views with her father, Morgan Phillips said, “People should be able to be themselves and have freedom of choice and be
able to live their life, to have good opportunities in life. That freedom is my central value. I feel like to be a good professor [like my dad], you must care.”
U.S. Rep. Lauren Underwood learned community college concerns and initiatives during an April 5 visit to campus.
Underwood visited with students druing a meeting of Socrates Cafe.
She also was able to tour the Early Childhood Education classroom, which recently recieved a grant for renovation.
In addition to meeting with students and seeing the campus, Underwood also met with college administraton and received seed packets from the One Book One College program, which read Octavia Butler’s “Parable of the Sower.”
Nestled in the heart of IVCC, resides Aseret Loveland, whose journey from a first-generation student to becoming a beacon of guidance and support for others is remarkable. In an exclusive interview, Loveland shared her path through education, her dedication to her community, and her passion for empowering students to bloom wherever they are planted.
Loveland was raised by her single mother in Spring Valley and attended Hall High School. Throughout her academic journey, she had to navigate without the privilege of mentorship or guidance. Despite feeling the absence of direction keenly, this void ignited a determination within her to carve a path for herself and help others do the same.
Reflecting on her early experiences, Loveland shared, “I didn’t graduate with any fancy honors…I didn’t get any help really figuring out what to do after high school.” However, the absence of support fueled
her desire to make a difference in the lives of students facing similar challenges.
After graduating high school she attended IVCC during the years of 2008 and 2010. While at IVCC, Loveland discovered the Project Success program and applied.
She found the guidance and workshops “incredibly beneficial and provided a better foundation of what to expect and achieve in furthering” her education. She was also a 21st Century and PTK All-Illinois Academic Scholar in 2010.
Following her education at IVCC, Loveland continued to Eastern Illinois University (EIU) with aspirations of becoming a teacher. However, her journey took an unexpected turn as her fascination with sociology grew, coupled with the mentorship she received at EIU, which steered her towards a career in higher education.
During her time at EIU, she completed her Bachelor of Arts in Sociology and her Master of Science in Student
College Affairs. Her journey through EIU’s master’s program in college student affairs illuminated her true calling: to support and advise college students.
Despite uncertainty about the specific direction she wanted to take, she embraced opportunities as they came, including a role in admissions at EIU. Ultimately, Loveland had her sights on returning to IVCC.
In 2013, she returned to IVCC with an internship under Dr. Morris to see what area would be of interest to her. Then when an opportunity in admissions arrived, she applied and was hired as the Assistant Director in 2015.
She got married and had two boys while working as the Assistant Director of Admissions for 8 and a half years. In 2023, she transitioned to become a Project Success counselor.
“I’m juggling motherhood and learning a new position while still having fun,” Loveland said. In addition to being a Project Success counselor,
Loveland helps advise the Project Success Leadership Team and the Hispanic Leadership Team.
With her new position, Loveland can have more meaningful conversations with students and have more one-on-one interactions with them. “I find that I get to play being a mom sometimes just to remind students why they’re here,” Loveland said.
One of Loveland’s goals, as an educator, is to create a safe and supportive environment for her students. She understands the anxiety that comes with asking for help and wants to ensure that her students never feel that way.
Loveland believes that she has become quite skilled at asking for help, to the point where she may be “bothering” others. Because she knows that students have a lot going on in their lives, just as she did when she was a student, Loveland wants her students to feel like they always have someone to turn to for assistance.
Jennifer Cortes, a former colleague and a current men-
tee of Loveland’s, reflects on her experience, saying “It’s not intimidating to talk to her…she has an overall welcoming attitude…she makes things fun.” Cortes says she is always telling people outside of IVCC “You’ve got to meet Aseret.”
For Megan O’Boyle, another former colleague and one of the students Aseret has mentored, Aseret’s presence has been transformative. “She makes me feel hopeful about my future and that I can actually accomplish what I want to do with my life,” Megan shares, echoing the sentiments of countless others whose lives Aseret has touched.
Aseret Loveland’s story is one of resilience, compassion, and unwavering dedication to the betterment of others. As she continues to inspire and uplift those around her, she reminds us all to bloom where we are planted, for it is in our shared growth and support that true flourishing occurs.
On April 8 at 2 p.m., IVCC students and staff gathered in the Academic Support Center, Activity Center, and courtyard to watch the Eclipse. There were several activities offered by the library staff as well as “Eclipse glasses” given out to anyone that wanted to participate. Staff took pictures of the moment the moon’s shadow passed over the school as well as pictures of student’s reactions. The activity hosted group projects such as pinhole projectors, eclipse photography, coloring pages, and bracelet making.
On Monday, April 4, I was able to witness the eclipse in full totality.
I went to visit a friend who goes to Rose-Hulman University in Terre Haute, Indiana, and that area was one of the few places in the United States where totality can be seen.
Leading up to the eclipse, the lighting around us was getting darker with every passing minute, to the point of automatic lights turning on nearby.
I unfortunately did not see the diamond ring before the eclipse set in but when I took off my glasses as totality was happening I was floored. This was my first time watching an eclipse, let alone totality, and I was completely blown away. It looked like an eye was staring right back at me. The feeling of witnessing totality in real time is unparalleled and if possible, needs to be experienced by everyone.
It is hard to describe exactly, but it was incredible to witness a phenomenon of this scale. The pictures that people take online do not do the eclipse justice at all.
When glancing around, it looked like it was night all around us, but it was 3 p.m. EST. Another cool thing that happens is the horizon circles around you instead of setting in the west. A different way of putting it, it looked like the sun was setting around you in every direction.
Moving back to the sun and moon, at my location we got 3 minutes of totality and towards the end of it we also witnessed solar flares. It was very neat to witness that, even if it took a little bit away from the experience.
Overall, the 3 minutes of totality was worth the three-hour drive required to get there and I do not plan on missing the next total eclipse in America.
Editor: Emma Coss Arts Editor: Eric Lockwood Sports Editors: Logan Bland Jake Gerding Photo Editor: MaKade Rios Staff: Lucy Zavada, Grace Mertel, Wes Ruppert, Nicholas Graham, Ashton Watkins, Jason Bell.
IV Leader, a member of the Associated Collegiate Press, is published monthly by students of Illinois Valley Community College. Editorials and columns express opinions of student and staff members and do not necessarily express the views of IVCC, the administration or the Board. Editorial opinions are those a student editorial board. Letters to the editor must be signed and should be addressed to the IV Leader Office B-316, IVCC, 815 N. Orlando Smith Rd., Oglesby, IL 61348-9691.
Read the IV Leader online, meet the staff, apply for a staff position, and explore the newspaper’s long, distinguished history online.
To join the staff, contact lori_cinotte@ivcc. edu
If you are in search of a cost-free way to get therapy, you may find music to be the perfect solution, as it can have a wide range of benefits for the mind, body, and soul.
According to Healthline, music can offer various health benefits such as enhancing memory, treating mental illness, reducing anxiety, alleviating fatigue, helping with symptoms of depression, improving heart health, boosting exercise performance, and managing pain.
It is no surprise that music therapy is growing in popularity, as it can help people deal with physical and mental pain, and regulate their emotions.
Moreover, the act of engaging with music— whether through listening, singing or playing and instrument—can have profound effects on the brain and body.
The next time you are feeling low, try listening to some music you enjoy. You may be taken aback by how much it can brighten your mood.
Using music as a form of therapy is one of the easiest and most effective ways to meditate. It does not require any payment or special effort on your part. All you need to do is play the music that pleases you, and it can have a positive effect on your mood and health.
Personally, music helps me get through the tough times. It is what keeps me going when I am dealing with anything challenging.
In addition to its therapeutic benefits, music offers a gateway of self-expression and personal growth.
For some individuals, writing and composing music can serve as a form of release, allowing them to channel their emotions and experiences into creative expression.
Artists like Lizzy McAlpine, Olivia Rodrigo and Taylor Swift are shining examples of individuals who use music as a means of self-exploration and healing, turning their
personal struggles into powerful works of art.
As we navigate the complexities of modern life, the importance of self-care and mental well-being cannot be overstated.
In the midst of life’s challenges, music stands as a beacon of hope and healing, offering a timeless reminder that amidst the chaos, there exists a sanctuary where the sould can find solace and peace.
So, the next time you find yourself in need of a little therapeutic relief, why not turn to the healing power of music? You may be surprised by the profound impact it can have on your mind, body, and soul. E
Hello, Eagles! My name is Emma Garretson and I was voted Student Trustee for the 2024-2025 academic year. I will be filling the role of Libby Boyles. I am currently a freshman, from Peru, IL.
During my first year at IVCC, I was a part of the volleyball team and was elected as a freshman representative in the Student Government Association.
I decided to run for Student Trustee because I want to help students understand their importance at IVCC and make it known that their opinions matter. I will effectively communicate students’ perspectives on issues to both the Board of
Trustees and the Student Government Association.
I am honored to serve the students of IVCC next year and I am looking forward to meeting new people along the way. I get the opportunity of writing a column for each issue of the IV Leader, keeping everyone updated on anything significant happening at the school and topics covered in board meetings.
I am open to any advice or recommendations that you have to offer. You may contact me via email, K002D7E1@ivcc.edu.
During my free time, you may find me in the SGA office that is located in the Student Life Space.
ART RECEPTION
Art instructor Shannon Slaight-Brown presents awards April 12 at the Student Art Show reception. High school and IVCC students were honored.
Submitted photos
IVCC’s Art Department hosted its annual Student Art Show from April 1-12.
An award reception was held from 5 to 7 p.m. on April 12 in the Stu dent Life Space.
The winners included:
Best in 3-D IVCC Student - Mary Tutoky, Stone Ware-Ceramic and Glazes, Pants.
Best in 2-D IVCC Student - Arian Benitez, Acrylic on Paper, Anatomical Orchids.
Best in 3-D High School - Natleigh Wamoff, La Moille High School, Cardboard Room Model, Single Dude Apart ment.
Best in 2-D High School - Rebekah Graman, Ottawa
High School, Mixed Media, Illustration. Tuition Waiver Student (High School Senior attending IVCC in the Fall) - Donna Sloan, La Moille High School, Colored Pencil Drawing, The Lion. Gerrard Fine Arts Scholarship - Leah Green, Ottawa High School, Acrylic on Canvas, Portrait People’s Choice Award - Gretchen Hauger, White Charcoal on Black Paper, Portrait.
IVCC student Mary Tutoky created “Pants” (at left) in the category of Stoneware and Glazes.
After a break in publication due to the COVID pandemic, River Currents, IVCC’s literary magazine has resumed publication. The lastest issue is available online at www.ivcc.edu/rc. “Special Issue: The Lost Years” includes work created during the pandemic that has not been published until now.
A reception marking the relaunch of the magazine will be noon-2 p.m. Monday, April 29 in Room C-316. All are invited.
The 2023-2024 men’s basketball team had a good season this year, making history this year by winning the Arrowhead Conference this year being the first team to do so in program history.
Surprisingly enough, there was only one sophomore on the entire team and that would be forward Wes Ruppert.
Ruppert is a 6’4” forward from La Salle and graduated from LaSalle-Peru High School. He just finished his second year of playing basketball at IVCC playing a total of 24 games at the college.
Ruppert is proud to be part of a team that won IVCC’s first conference title.
“To be a part of a team that made IVCC history feels amazing,” he said. “Even if my role was more behind the scenes and not as much during the game... Everyone played a part that contributed to us being conference champs.”
Although Wes may not have played that many games on the court, he still accomplished a lot in the classroom, earning IVCC Academic Honors in every semester, NJCAA 2nd Team Academic Honors, and Arrowhead Conference Academic All-Conference while managing being a player on the basketball team.
Ruppert will take away many memories from his IVCC career.
“My favorite moment from my IVCC basketball career is probably when I got announced at sophomore night.” he said. “It was nice and my teammates were very
supportive.”
As the only sophomore on the team, Ruppert provided leadership as the entire team transitioned into working together.
Ruppert said, “At the start it was weird. It was almost like being a freshman again; I didn’t know anybody on the team. But as time went on, I got more and more familiar with my teammates and it went away.”
As one of two people from the local area on the team, Ruppert enjoyed his experience.
“Honestly it was very cool to see everyone with such different backgrounds come together to form a team,” he said. “For both years I played at IV, we had players from all over, including other countries. It was very interesting learning about everyone and the cultures they brought with them.”
Ruppert said the transition from high school to college ball helps to make players better.
“The biggest difference going from high school to college was that everybody could shoot and was at least solid with the ball,” he said. “Not everyone was like that in high school. At the same time though, all the other freshmen at the time were simply advancing to the next level like I was. So while people could shoot and play better defense, I also got better in those areas alongside my peers.”
As for what lies ahead for Ruppert in his future plans, he said that after IVCC he plans to join a union to be an electrician and wants to specifically become a lineman as his future career.
Sue Harding has been the Administrative Assistant in Athletics at Illinois Valley Community College for over 32 years.
Over this course of time she has made countless connections with the student athletes, some still lasting to this day. With as much experience as Harding has, she has a repertoire of events, moments, and memories around IVCC.
Harding is the youngest of seven siblings and has lived in Oglesby for most of her life although she spent a year living overseas in England with her husband until she moved back to the United States and started her career with IVCC.
During that time, they lived in an apartment in Bristol, England.
When asked how her time was in Bristol, she responded, “A terrific place to visit, though I didn’t really care for living over there.” Her reasoning was people are not as friendly and talkative as they are in the United States and the food can be hit or miss for most people.
Her favorite part of the job is her interactions with the student athletes. She enjoys what they bring to the table and they never fail to make her laugh.
As Harding puts it, “I would say 99% (of student athletes) are very respectful, very
polite to me and considerate to me.” Some former students even reach out to Harding to this day to talk and keep up with her life.
One of her favorite moments at IVCC is seeing all the basketball teams play against each other when hosting the regional tournament: “It was a lot of work, but they were fun to see the teams and the games it was nice to see everybody from the outside come in.”
Another favorite of hers is getting to know the secretaries and athletic directors of other colleges. It has been rewarding for Harding and has resulted in friends that she still talks to today.
Harding is neat and precise when it comes to doing her work, as she likes to “have all my T’s crossed and I’s dotted.” As Cory Tomasson, the Athletic Director of IVCC sports, puts it, “Sue is the most important element to the Athletic Department. Her years of experience, caring personality, and eye for detail make her invaluable.”
In 2012, she won the Support Staff Distinguished award, which was voted on by students and staff.
One of the most important things Harding has learned at IVCC is to not look at everybody at face value. As Harding says, “I think it causes you to step back and appreciate people rather than how they look or where they come from or anything like that.”
IVCC brought its 2 teams to Joliet’s Inwood Golf Course for the Saint Francis Spring Invite. Out of the 7 participating teams, IVCC Purple took 2nd place shooting a 313, five shots behind the winner Saint Xavier University. Leading the Purple team was Jon Cooper shooting a 76, followed up by teammate Jake Delaney with a 77.
Coach Guilfoyle says, “Jon and Jake have really stepped up early this spring. Both have been steady for us and provided key scores to keep us in contention. I know they will say they left some shots out there but with Jake
already having a prior top 5 finish this year and Jon finishing in each of the last 2 events, they are playing great.”
IVCC Grey finished 4th in the event with a 328 lead by Connor Noramczyk who shot his collegiate career best 78 (T6th).
The Eagles also finsihed 1st at Carl Sanburg with the IVCC Purple team shooting a 317 with 3 of the players taking top 5. Jake Delaney finished T1 and shot a team low 76 followed by Drake Stoudt and Jon Cooper both finishing T4th with a pair of 79s. Rounding off the scores for purple were Dylan Cartwright with an 83 and Carter Fenza with an 86.
The IVCC mens tennis team finsihed their season this month finishing the year with a record of 7-3 winning six matches in the month of April and losing two this month and winning their one and only match in the month of March.
The eagles softball team is crushing the competition this year having an overall record of 19-5 this year winning sixteen of their last seventeen only losing one game in the month of April as of April 23 losing a game to Kishwaukee by one run ending their twelve game win streak at the time. The softball team has fourteen games left on the season playing their last double-header on April 30.
The Eagles are lead in Hitting by sophomore outfielder Maddy Klicker who leads the team in Runs, Hits, Triples, Walks, and second on the team in Average behind Katie Bates (min. 10 ABs). The eagles are led in picthing by Sophomore pitcher Katie Bates who has picthed the most inning on the team with 63.2 having a 7-3 record on the season withan ERA of 3.19 and 58 strikeouts on the year.
The IVCC Baseball team has not had the season they hoped for having a record of 8-24 so far on the year. The team plays thirteen more games on the season playing ten more in April and three more in May.
The team is led in hitting by Freshman Matthew Reksnis who leads the team in hits and runs on the team. The team is also lead by Freshman Beau Ewers who lead the team in Homerunns and RBI’s and Sophomore Ryne Kerschke leads the team with the best batting average on the team. The Team is lead in picthing by Freshman Payton Harwood who has the most innings picthed o the team with 27.0 and the most strikeouts on the team with 20 on the year.
