Olney Central College has been honored by University HQ in its ranking of the Top 25 Best Associate Degree Programs in Illinois. OCC secured the No. 9 spot in the 2024 ratings by the prominent independent online education organization. “Olney Central College is pleased to receive this No. 9 ranking from University HQ,” said OCC President and Vice Chancellor for Business Chris Simpson. “It is a testament to the high-quality educational experience we provide to our students and the commitment and dedication of the OCC faculty and staff.”

OLNEY, Ill. — Outstanding students at Olney Central College have received academic honors for the Spring 2024 Semester. Students named to the Chancellor’s List have attained a grade point average of 3.90 or higher, on a 4.0 scale. Those on the President’s List have achieved a grade point average between 3.75 and 3.89, while those students named to the Dean’s List have earned a grade point average between 3.50 and 3.74. Chancellor’s List: Albion: Emma Gill and Isabel Shepherd Bellmont: Greta Claywell

Olney Central College student Landyn Piercefield was among the top finishers in the Southern Indiana Career and Technical Center Welding Competition in Evansville. The OCC sophomore captured second place in the Apprentice Category, which is open to those ages 18-22. “I really enjoyed the competition,” Piercefield said. “It shows you where you stand in comparison to other welders your age. I like seeing where I stand and trying to improve my skills.”

Dive into a world of exploration and excitement with Olney Central College’s Ignite Curiosity Summer Camps! These fun-filled, one-day camps offer an excellent opportunity for students to explore their interests and hobbies while having a great time with peers. Students can attend just one camp or all seven while engaging in plenty of hands-on activities under the guidance of OCC instructors. All camps will meet from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Camps available include: Metaling Around – Welding | Grades 7-12

Olney Central College will hold its 60th commencement exercises at 7 p.m. on Friday, May 10 in the OCC Gymnasium. Friends and relatives of the graduates are invited to attend. OCC Interim Dean of Instruction Amy Tarr will give the welcoming remarks. Other speakers include OCC President Chris Simpson and OCC Alumnus Dr. Tanner Miller, who will give the Commencement Address.

OCC Men's Basketball will offer Summer Youth Camps for boys and girls entering Grades 1-10. The Girls Camp will meet June 15-17 and the Boys Camp will meet June 18-20. Both camps will be held from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m., with drop off times of 7:30 a.m. The Cost is $100. For more information or to register, contact Joe Ledvina at 517-861-7587 or email ledvinaj@iecc.edu.

Join the Olney Central College Music Department as the Concert Choir and Musical Theater Workshop students present their Spring Musical Theater Showcase at 7 p.m. on May 3 in the Dr. John D. Stull Performing Arts Center. “The showcase is a chance for these students to have leading roles and gain experience in performing,” said OCC Director of Choral Activities Dr. Andrew Pittman. “Everyone is featured at least once, giving them a chance to shine.”

Olney Central College freshman Jorri VanDyke was seated as the new Student Trustee for Illinois Eastern Community Colleges during the Board of Trustees meeting on April 16. Elected by the OCC student body on March 19, VanDyke is eager to represent students across the district, giving them a voice in the decision-making process. “I am excited and looking forward to this opportunity,” VanDyke said. “It’s a great way to be informed about what is going on in the district. As student trustee, I want to help bridge the gap between students, administration and the board.”

Olney Central College’s Music Department will host its Contemporary Music Ensembles and Brass Band Concert on April 10, while the Big Band and Concert/Community Band will perform on April 24. Both performances will begin at 7 p.m. in the Dr. John D. Stull Performing Arts Center. The Contemporary Music Ensembles will feature two separate bands under the direction of adjunct faculty Josh Moats and Trevor Parrent, both OCC graduates.

Olney Central College students can now perform genomic sequencing and DNA analysis with cutting-edge biotechnology purchased through a $5,000 OCC Foundation mini grant. Foundation members Sherry Brauer and Brenda Glover along with Executive Director Beth Miller witnessed these capabilities firsthand as students used the new portable PCR thermocycler and gel electrophoresis to solve a crime.