A new chapter in musical exploration unfolded as the first-ever music camp, under the guidance of Dennis Stroughmatt and directed by Doug Hawf, brought together a diverse group of 41 participants ranging from ages 6 to 80. This unique event provided an opportunity for attendees to delve into the world of music, learn new instruments, and create lasting memories.  

The excitement of starting college is a mix of emotions, from anticipation to anxiety. At WVC the journey begins with New Student Orientation, a crucial event that eases the transition into campus life. This year's orientation will be held on August 16th, the day before classes start, after careful consideration to strike a balance between confidence-building time and practical preparation.  

Wabash Valley College is experiencing a powerful transformation with the addition of three remarkable coaches who are poised to reshape the athletic landscape. The college has proudly welcomed Terrance McGee, Rachel Refenes, and Jade Montgomery, each bringing unique experiences, expertise, and a shared passion for excellence to their respective teams.  

Tona Ambrose has been named the new President at Lincoln Trail College. She will also serve as the Vice Chancellor of Institutional Outreach (VCIO) for Illinois Eastern Community Colleges (IECC). Ambrose is the 12th President in Lincoln Trail College’s history.  

Longtime Richland County educator and administrator Chris A. Simpson has been named Olney Central College President and Vice Chancellor of Business Operations for Illinois Eastern Community Colleges. Prior to joining OCC, Simpson served as the Superintendent of Schools for Richland County Community Unit 1, where he led the school district from 2019 until his retirement in June. In all, he spent nearly 25 years with the district including four years as assistant superintendent.

Lincoln Trail College students Madisyn McIntosh and Krista Phillips finished sixth in the nation at the Future Business Leaders of America Collegiate National Leadership Conference. It is the second year in a row LTC students have earned a top-ten finish at the event.  

As students prepare for the start of the Fall 2023 Semester, Lincoln Trail College is holding a series of events called Walk-In Wednesdays. The events will help students register for classes this fall at LTC.   “We want to make it easy for students to register for classes this fall,” said LTC Coordinator of Marketing and Public Information Chris Forde. “The Walk-In Wednesday events allow students to easily register for classes, meet with advisors, get help with financial aid and complete any testing they may need to do before the start of classes.”  

On June 30, an era will come to an end as Olney Central College Baseball Coach Dennis Conley retires after 43 years with the Blue Knights. When Conley started his coaching career at OCC, he was only a couple of years older than his players. In the intervening years, the Charleston native has devoted countless hours into building the college’s athletic programs and developing top-notch players both on the field and in the classroom.

Olney Central College Men’s Basketball will host Summer Youth Camps July 17-19 in the OCC Gym. The camps offer a unique opportunity for young basketball enthusiasts in Grades 2-8 to enhance their skills under the guidance of experienced OCC Men’s Basketball staff and players. The camps will provide campers with high-level instruction and training to develop their basketball abilities. The boys’ camp will meet from 8 a.m. to noon, with drop-off starting at 7:30 a.m. The girls’ camp will meet from 1 to 5 p.m., with drop-off starting at 12:30 p.m.

OLNEY, Ill. — Outstanding students at Olney Central College have received academic honors for the Spring 2023 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: Addison Cowger and Diane Marie Ochate Bone Gap: Taylor Bogle