The Anderson Library is providing a new avenue for reading and sharing books at OCC — The Free Little Library Cart. Located in the library gallery, the cart features a variety of hardback, paperback and even children’s books in a variety of genres. “Our goal is to help inspire a love for reading and build a community among all of our patrons by having them share books that they’ve read with one another,” said Library Assistant Kaitlyn Weger. “We are going to see how it goes for this semester, and hopefully if it goes well, look into creating another space on campus.”

OLNEY, Ill. — Outstanding students at Olney Central College have received academic honors for the Fall 2021 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: Camden Cowger, Summer Holmes and Gabriel Weber Bridgeport: Hannah Drummond Charleston: Fred Christopher

Olney Central College is currently accepting applications for Fall 2022 entry into the Illinois Eastern Community Colleges/OCC Nursing Program. Those who plan to rank for the nursing program for Fall 2022 must attend one of three informational meetings scheduled for Jan. 24, Jan. 27, and Feb. 2. The meetings will be held at 1:30 p.m. in Wattleworth Hall Room 217.

Olney Central College is excited to add a second Peer Coach. Dorothy Ochate joins Philip Henderson in assisting and reaching out to fellow students. Initiated earlier this year, the Peer Coach Program connects incoming freshmen with current students through OCC text messaging. Peer Coaches can convey information and answer questions from fellow students.

The website Best Accredited Colleges has named Olney Central College’s Associate Accounting Degree among the top in the nation. Best Accredited Colleges provides its guide and school rankings to assist students in making the best college decision. Selections are based on U.S. Department of Education data including accessibility, affordability, quality of education and return on investment. OCC’s Accounting Program was ranked No. 16 on the list.

If you are interested in exploring one or multiple artistic media, local artist Mari Yamato invites you to join the Open Studio Art Class she will be teaching this spring at Olney Central College. “The class provides the studio space for students to explore a specific area they are interested in,” Yamato said. “This is a great class for students who want to work in a specific media that is not offered as another class or if they want to work in mixed media.”

Artist Mari Yamato invites area residents to join her for an oil painting class this spring at Olney Central College. The course is designed for both novice and experienced painters who are interested in enhancing their skills. While instructors typically assign art projects for students, Yamato’s open studio class will give participants a chance to explore their own interests while receiving feedback from a seasoned artist. During the sessions, Yamato will both advise and mentor students, who are encouraged to bring in their own projects to complete.

Local artist Mari Yamato will teach spring ceramics courses at Olney Central College. The classes are project-based and designed for both students and community members who want to learn basic ceramic techniques. During the semester, students will create their own pottery using pinch pot, coil, slab and sculpture techniques. They also will work with the potter’s wheel and will learn how to make bowls, vases, plates and mugs.

Olney Central College’s Cosmetology Program is accepting new students for spring semester classes. Students enrolled in Cosmetology participate in both classroom and clinical experiences. The program focuses on all facets of the industry, including hair shaping, skin care, makeup, permanent waving, shampooing, scalp treatments, hair styling and chemical hair relaxing. Pedicures, manicures, massage and shop management also are covered.

Olney Central College is offering spring Line Dancing Classes starting Jan. 13. While line dancing is most closely associated with country music, Instructor Vickie Smith said her course encompasses much more. “I use a variety of music in the classes including Spanish, some Rock and Roll and some newer pop tunes,” she added.