Some love stories begin with a grand gesture or a chance encounter in a far-off place. For Ross and Nikki Westdorp, it all started in the halls of Lincoln Trail College—between classes, on the ballfields, and in the quiet moments of campus life. What began as a simple friendship grew into something greater, standing the test of time, distance, and the challenges of college athletics. Years later, they returned to the place where it all began, not as students, but as husband and wife—saying “I do” on the very field that had been their home for so many innings.

Felipe Silva (‘23) has always had soccer in his blood. Growing up in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, the sport was more than just a game—it was a way of life. His dream, like many young athletes, was to become a professional player. But life had other plans, and while his path didn’t lead him to a playing career, it took him somewhere just as meaningful: the world of sports journalism.

The Arts at Lincoln Trail College has announced the cast and production team for its upcoming production of Footloose the Musical, directed by Taylor Dahlberg. Performances will take place April 4-6 and 11-13 at the Zwermann Arts Center Theater. Dylan Batten stars as Ren McCormack, a city teen who moves to a small town where dancing is banned. Rebecca Trivett plays Ariel Moore, the rebellious daughter of Reverend Shaw Moore, portrayed by Justin Janney. Danyelle Ayres takes on the role of Vi Moore, with Mindy Evans as Ethel McCormack.

Lincoln Trail College recently showcased the talents of young artists in the community with its Children’s Art Show, which ran from February 3 to 14 in the Learning Commons. The exhibition featured 88 pieces of artwork submitted by students from Nuttall Middle School, Oblong, Palestine, and New Hebron Christian School. An open house on February 4 welcomed artists, their families, and community members to celebrate the students’ creativity across various mediums.

At Lincoln Trail College, Career and Technical Education (CTE) is more than just classroom learning—it’s hands-on training that prepares students for real-world success. Whether welding, telecommunications, process technology, or health careers, LTC’s CTE programs provide students with the skills and confidence to launch successful careers. Learning by Doing

For many students, community college serves as a stepping stone, a place to gain experience, explore opportunities, and prepare for the next phase of life. For Mallory Mundy, Lincoln Trail College (LTC) was much more than that. It was a foundation that shaped her personally and professionally, leading her to DePauw University and now to an exciting career with iHeart Media. Discovering a Community at Lincoln Trail College

Lincoln Trail College has released its academic honor lists for the Fall 2024 Semester. Three lists have been established by Illinois Eastern Community Colleges to indicate students who have achieved academic excellence. They are the Chancellor’s Honors List, the President’s Academic Honors List, and the Dean’s Academic Honors List. To qualify for any of the honor lists, a student must be enrolled full-time (12 hours or more) and must be taking college-level classes.

The Arts at Lincoln Trail College is proud to announce auditions for its spring production of "Footloose," scheduled for Jan. 30 and 31 at 5 p.m. in the Zwermann Performing Arts Center.

Lincoln Trail College Theatre will celebrate five decades of performances, memories, and community with a special 50th Anniversary Celebration on Saturday, February 22, at 6 p.m. The event will take place at The Woods Event Center, 10584 N. 600th St., Robinson, Ill.

Students from Oblong High School’s FFA and FBLA programs visited Lincoln Trail College for the annual Etiquette Luncheon, an event designed to teach professional dining skills, social etiquette, and networking strategies. The luncheon, organized and led by LTC President Tona Ambrose, provides students with hands-on experience in formal dining settings. “I often start the event by having students take a deep breath and then I promise that by the time they leave, they will know what to do with each and every fork, spoon, and knife spread out all around them,” Ambrose said.