Lincoln Trail College recognized four outstanding students with special awards during its 55th Annual Commencement ceremony.

With pride, reflection, and a message to “seize the day,” Lincoln Trail College honored the Class of 2025 du

Lincoln Trail College honored the Nursing Class of 2025 in a heartfelt Pinning Ceremony that celebrated the hard work, compassion and dedication of the graduating students as they prepare to enter the nursing profession. The ceremony began with a welcome from Associate Professor of Nursing Angie Williams, who spoke about the symbolism behind the nursing pin. She explained how the pin represents more than just the completion of a program—it’s a badge of honor that reflects a commitment to care, service and integrity.

Four Lincoln Trail College Process Technology students recently tested their skills on a national stage, competing in the North American Process Technology Alliance’s Troubleshooting Skills Competition — and gaining a firsthand look at the industry they’re preparing to enter. Students Madison Davis, Kollin Ramos, Reeve Dennis, and Garrett Winterrowd represented LTC in the event, which challenges students from across the country to solve simulated industrial problems using Distributed Control Systems (DCS), teamwork, and real-world troubleshooting.

Lincoln Trail College welcomed approximately 100 high school and college students on May 1 for the 2025 Future Educators Summit, a one-day event designed to motivate, inform and prepare the next generation of teachers and education leaders.

Olney Central College will hold its 61st commencement exercises at 7 p.m. on Friday, May 9 in the OCC Gymnasium. Friends and relatives of the graduates are invited to attend. OCC Dean of Instruction Amy Tarr will give the welcoming remarks while Chris Simpson will deliver the President’s Message. Julie A. Hill will present the 2025 Commencement Address. Hill is the Board Chair of GA Franchising and co-founder of Ginger Ale’s, a growing chain of specialty drink shops.

Illinois Eastern Community Colleges announced the appointment of Paul Tait as the district’s next Chief Information Officer, effective May 12, 2025. Tait will succeed Alex Cline, who is retiring after nearly three decades of service.

After nearly three decades of service to Illinois Eastern Community Colleges, Chief Information Officer Alex Cline is preparing for retirement, leaving behind a legacy defined by innovation, leadership, and an unwavering commitment to the institution and its people.

After more than two decades of planning, Lincoln Trail College is set to break ground later this year on a state-of-the-art Technology Center that will house high-demand programs in Welding, Process Technology, and Broadband Telecommunications. The new facility will enhance technical education across the region, offering hands-on training aligned with local industry needs and statewide workforce priorities.