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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.”
A graduate of Richland County High School, VanDyke has been active in Future Farmers of America serving as chapter vice president and holding the regional office of Section 23 Treasurer. As an office holder, VanDyke assisted with event planning and activities.
VanDyke is on course to receive the prestigious American FFA Degree later this year. The highest degree achievable in the National FFA organization, only 1 percent of members earn this honor. It recognizes the effort members apply toward their supervised agricultural experience along with the outstanding leadership abilities and community involvement exhibited through their FFA career.
“It requires a considerable investment of time both in and out of the classroom,” VanDyke added.
While attending RCHS, VanDyke played softball, volleyball and basketball and was active in Student Council, Pep Club and Travel Abroad Club. A member of the Builders of the Future 4-H Club, she held numerous offices including secretary, reporter and currently president. She also is serving as president of the Richland County 4-H Federation.
“I think it is good to get involved,” VanDyke said. “In high school, I would encourage younger students to make connections with others and to try new things. I’m hoping to do the same as Stu-dent Trustee.”
At OCC, VanDyke currently serves as a tutor and is the manager for the women’s basketball team. She is pursuing a transfer degree in science with plans to become a large-animal veterinarian focusing on livestock.
“I grew up showing pigs and sheep and loved it,” VanDyke said. “I had an opportunity to job shadow at Three Rivers Veterinary Clinic. I talked with Makenzie Michels there, and she helped me out a lot with my decision to pursue this field.”
VanDyke says beginning her studies at OCC was an easy choice.
“OCC is less than 3 minutes from my house, and I was impressed by the excellent science pro-gram here. Chemistry instructor Dr. (Aaron) Lineberry’s class has pushed me to be more focused and is challenging me.”
OCC Advisor Jodi Schneider encouraged VanDyke to run for Student Trustee and believes she will do an outstanding job.
“Jorri demonstrates leadership abilities inside and outside of the classroom,” Schneider said. “She has demonstrated her ambitions and strengths not only in academics, but also in many extra curriculars. As a representative of Olney Central College, I know Jorri will be a strong voice for our students, community and college district with her variety of experiences and insight.”
VanDyke is the daughter of Jessica and Jamie VanDyke of Olney.
