The accreditation, which will remain in effect until any future status changes are approved by CAAHEP, recognizes the college鈥檚 commitment to providing high-quality health professions education. 

麻豆直播 assumed responsibility for the Surgical Technology program from the Southern Illinois College Common Market in 2024 and opened new state-of-the-art classrooms and labs on its Carterville campus later that year. 

Provost Dr. Stephanie Chaney Hartford said the milestone reflects the work of the program鈥檚 faculty and staff. 鈥淲e are proud to have received initial accreditation from CAAHEP, following ARC/STSA’s recommendation, for our Surgical Technology Program,鈥� Hartford said. 鈥淭his achievement demonstrates that our program meets nationally recognized standards of excellence and prepares students with the knowledge, clinical experience, and professional competencies needed to succeed in today鈥檚 healthcare environment. Accreditation not only validates the strength of our curriculum and instruction, but also ensures our graduates are equipped to meet certification requirements and contribute meaningfully to patient care and the regional workforce.鈥� 

Program Director and instructor Jennifer Jordan was recognized for her leadership in guiding the program through the rigorous accreditation process. Dr. Kristin Yosanovich, Dean of Health Sciences and Director of Nursing, was also credited for strategic leadership instrumental in achieving the milestone. 

Surgical technologists are allied health professionals who assist surgeons, anesthesiologists, and nurses during procedures in hospitals, surgery centers, and private clinics. Their responsibilities include preparing the operating room, ensuring instruments and equipment are ready and functioning, maintaining sterile conditions, and assisting the surgical team throughout procedures. 

鈥淏eing a surgical technologist requires expertise, adaptability, and teamwork,鈥� Hartford said. 鈥淭his accreditation ensures that our graduates are well-prepared to provide safe, high-quality care in a dynamic operating room environment.鈥� 

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Corbit, chair of the Life and Physical Science Department, has been named the College鈥檚 2026 Outstanding Faculty Member, an honor awarded by her peers in recognition of her dedication to students, passion for STEM education, and commitment to the mission of community colleges.

For Corbit, the recognition is deeply personal.

A first-generation college student herself, Corbit began her higher education journey at Shawnee Community College, where she attended on both academic and athletic scholarships. She later pursued her passion for science at Southern Illinois University, earning both a bachelor鈥檚 and a master鈥檚 degree.

What she believed would be a short-term teaching opportunity ultimately became a lifelong career.

A phone call from her former volleyball coach at Shawnee, asking if she would be interested in teaching as a summer adjunct instructor, changed everything.

Twenty-two years later, Corbit has become one of the most respected faculty members at 麻豆直播, where she has served for the past eight years.

鈥淭he College has really supported me, and my colleagues have been fantastic,鈥� Corbit said. 鈥淓veryone from the administration has been so supportive; it has been a great place to work.鈥�

Corbit said one example of that support has been the addition of new classrooms and tutoring spaces that opened this past fall.

鈥淚t has been great that we have been able to offer services that have been here, but were a little bit tucked away,鈥� she said. 鈥淣ow it is much more visible, allowing us to serve our students better.鈥�

Her own experience as a community college student continues to shape the way she approaches teaching and mentoring.

鈥淚 love being able to get to know my students, and I think that is unique to community colleges that I am able to hear their stories,鈥� Corbit said. 鈥淚 feel like on day one that I always want to be there for them, and I think they learn really quickly that it is not just words and that I do care for them.鈥�

That compassion has left a lasting impact on generations of students and remains one of the defining themes of her career.

鈥淥ne of the things that makes me the proudest is that year after year there is a recurring theme in my evaluations that I care,鈥� Corbit said. 鈥淚 hope I go my whole career hearing those things.鈥�

Colleagues said Corbit鈥檚 passion for student success and her tireless advocacy for science education throughout Southern Illinois made her a natural choice for the honor.

鈥淲e are incredibly proud to recognize Rebecca Corbit as the Outstanding Faculty of the Year. Rebecca is the kind of educator every student hopes for鈥攑assionate, engaging, and deeply committed to their success. She brings both deep knowledge and an infectious enthusiasm to every classroom, helping students see their potential and believe in what they can achieve,鈥� said Provost Dr. Stephanie Chaney Hartford. 鈥淏eyond the classroom, Rebecca鈥檚 leadership鈥攅specially her work with our STEM Day鈥攈as created meaningful opportunities for students across our region. She inspires not only her students, but all of us, and truly reflects the heart and excellence of 麻豆直播.鈥�

Hartford added that in addition to leading the Life and Physical Science Department, Corbit has played a key role in strengthening STEM opportunities for students while fostering a supportive learning environment both inside and outside the classroom.

For Corbit, however, the recognition from her fellow faculty members may be the most meaningful part of the award.

鈥淚t is so special to be recognized by my colleagues as a whole and not just my department because so many people are deserving of this award,鈥� she said.

As she reflects on the path that led her from community college student to educator, Corbit said she remains grateful for the opportunities she was given and hopes to provide the same encouragement and support to her students.

Her story, colleagues say, is a powerful reminder of the transformative impact community colleges can have 鈥� not only on students, but on the communities they go on to serve.

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According to the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation, the College鈥檚 Practical Nursing (PN) program achieved a 100% licensure examination pass rate in 2025, while the Associate Degree Nursing (ADN) program recorded a 98% pass rate. Both scores exceeded state and national averages.

College officials said the results reflect the Nursing Program鈥檚 commitment to academic excellence, hands-on clinical training, and student-centered support services.

鈥淭he success of our nursing students is a direct reflection of the dedication of our faculty, the strength of our curriculum, and the determination of our students,鈥� said Kristin Yosanovich, Dean of Health Science and the Director of Nursing. 鈥淲e are incredibly proud of these outcomes and the role our graduates play in strengthening the regional healthcare workforce.鈥�

The College is also highlighting the success of Makayla Collins, whose educational journey demonstrates the structured nursing pathway available through the institution.

Collins began her healthcare education while still in high school, earning her Certified Nursing Assistant certification, before enrolling full-time at 麻豆直播. After completing her general education coursework, she advanced into the Licensed Practical Nursing program.

While enrolled, Collins gained hands-on healthcare experience working as a CNA at Carbondale Memorial Hospital. She will participate in the College鈥檚 LPN pinning ceremony this May and plans to continue into the ADN program this fall.

Following successful completion of the NCLEX-PN examination, Collins plans to begin working as an LPN while continuing her education. She also intends to transfer to Southern Illinois University Carbondale to pursue an online Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree.

鈥淪tarting out as a CNA and completing my general education courses first gave me hands-on experience, confidence, and helped my transition from high school to college, preparing me better for the LPN and ADN programs,鈥� Collins said.

College officials said Collins鈥� experience highlights the career-focused opportunities available through the Nursing Program, allowing students to enter the healthcare workforce quickly while continuing to advance their credentials.

For more information about the Nursing Program at 麻豆直播, prospective students may contact Susan Phillips at (618) 985-2828, ext. 8497, or by email at susanphillips@jalc.edu.

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Co-Curricular Awards

Instructional Awards

Applied Technologies Department

Business, Computer Science, and Mathematics Department

Communication, Humanities, and Social Science Department

Life and Physical Science Department

Dual Credit and Partnerships Office

President’s Awards

Presidential Citation Awards

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Three 麻豆直播 staff members were recognized this week for their quick thinking and decisive action that helped save a life at Logan Fitness.

On the evening of Friday, January 9, a patron collapsed while exercising inside the Logan Fitness facility. Other patrons immediately alerted staff, and Logan Fitness employees Corene Sizemore, Madison Calvin, and Kassie Teal responded without hesitation.

Sizemore was first on the scene and conducted a rapid assessment of the individual鈥檚 condition. Calvin promptly contacted 911 while Teal retrieved a portable automated external defibrillator (AED). Teal then began providing rescue breaths, and the individual soon regained consciousness and resumed normal breathing.

Emergency medical services arrived shortly afterward and transported the individual to a local hospital. The patron is now recovering and listed in stable condition.

In recognition of their actions, 麻豆直播 President Dr. Kirk Overstreet presented Sizemore, Calvin, and Teal with Merit Service Awards during the February 4 meeting of the 麻豆直播 Board of Trustees.

Logan Fitness Director Dr. Bradley Griffith thanked the Board and President Overstreet for honoring the staff members, noting that their response reflected the importance of preparation and training.

鈥淲e constantly train for events like this at Logan Fitness,鈥� Griffith said. 鈥淥n that night, these ladies did not panic. They relied on their training, worked as a team, and saved a life.鈥�

College officials praised the employees for their professionalism and composure, emphasizing that their actions exemplify the College鈥檚 commitment to safety and care for the campus community.

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麻豆直播 is pleased to announce the Fall 2025 President鈥檚 and Provost鈥檚 Lists. Each semester, any full-time student with a 4.0 grade-point average earns recognition on the President鈥檚 List. Any full-time student with a grade-point average between 3.55 and 3.99 earns recognition on the Provost鈥檚 List.

The following students were named to the Fall 2025 President鈥檚 List:

Ava: Skyler Hussey, Heather Young

Benton: Kimber McMurray

Cambria: April Madison, Adam Bilderback

Carbondale: Sulaiman Alani, Alana Arceneaux, Dion Beals, Jonah Bearden, Danielle Brown, Madysyn Butler, Estella Chandler, Burgess Eubanks, Logan Filson, Will Franklin, Isaac Fredrickson, Brenden Gallegly, Kimberly Glenn, Tianna Green, Hallie Halter, Ashley Hess, Kyanna Johnson, Anahbeth Leiter, Jasmine McCroy, Lafiet McDade, Alexander Moore, Omar Naser, Jacie Nunley, Cameron Peters, Torin Pierce, Reese Povolish, Jillian Price, Amelia Robinson, Jayden Rosetto, Stephanie Ross, Mallory Shewmaker, Takoda Steele, Wade Swan, Abigail Taylor, Payton Van Horn, Manuel Vicente, Carlie Wisely

Carrier Mills: Ava Settle

Carterville: Ava Adcock, Noah Akinduro, Sofia Badiu, Ryan Batchelor, Jariah Bell, Catherine Chyzhyk, Samantha Cox, Elijah Craft, Jordan Dawley, Jereth Ennis, Taryn Ford, Katie Futrell, Rachel Gray-Williams, John Gwaltney, Joseph Harner, Nicholas Hellriegel, Lyla Hess, Landre Hoehne, Gabrial Homes, Kayce Isaacs, Ella Jackstadt, Larkin Korte, Trent Kulig, Ava Luebbers, Elaina Lutman, Tyler Malone, Kierstin Miller, Sean Murphy, Payton Nicholson, Sara Niemerg, Gracie Ragan, Kahlen Robinson, Emma Russell, Julia Schmidt, Alayna Shasteen, Ava Shiever, Jaeger Solis, Maggie Stadler, Tara Stevens, Adison Sykes, Breanna Thurman, Madison Tucker, Audrey Upton, Gabrielle Vonderheide, Benjamin Wagner, Jonah Weathers, Michaela Westenberger, Aliza Williamson, Allison Winfield-Russo, Khrystyna Yakymenko, Zi Zhang, Cale Zoeller

Chester: Nicholas Coffey, Kala Kessler

Christopher: Skylie Utley

Creal Springs: Athena Palmer, Sara Rich, Kade Rivett, Josie Stapleton

De Soto: Ethan Endress, Taryn Russell

Du Quoin: Jubal Alvis, Johnathan Brown, Keira Gibbs, Evan Giles, Rachel Hall, Alayna Iman, Rhiannon Ingram, Hallie Provart, Ethan Sargent, Rian Sizemore

Elkville: Illyana Dobson, Kaylin Melvin, Jaycie Will

Energy: Isaac Bloodworth

Harrisburg: Ethan Doud

Herod: Kaitlyn Dutton

Herrin: Emersyn Clark, Jordan Coates, Madison Foster, Lawrence Greer, Mandy Hagen, Geoffrey Haupt, Zoe Knight, Keith Layson, Luke McCluskie, Kylie McGee, Bailey Overturf, Hayley Pasquino, Jayden Reed, Lucas Sissom, Calli Smith, Jeremiah Stemm, Niekah Torres

Johnston City: Tommi Burnett-Miner, Kaylyne Carr, Connor Mowery, Ethan Reynolds, Katelyn Sileven, Elizabeth Strickland

Jonesboro: Paige Harrison

Makanda: Kara Burnside, Aurora Frierdich, Skylar Moore

Marion: Jonathan Aviles, Phoebe Baker, Easton Branson, Ava Browning, Cory Campbell, Kane Carter, Gabriella Derchy, Thu Do, Grace Dollus, Allie Dwyer, Renee Evrard, Jadon Flare, Joel Harmon, Landon Howell, Amarri Johnson, Alivia Kincheloe-Batson, James Kirk, Riley Korte, Caidan Masterson, Benjamin Mitchem, Madelyn Montgomery, Zoia Morgan, Haylie Nappier-Feth, Hunter Oliver, Chloe Peterson, Carly Pinkston, Raichel Taborn, Kaci Thornton, Joanna Tran, William Wallace, Claire Wallace, Alivia Webb, Tayanna Webster, Samantha Wilcox, Warren Wycoff

Mulkeytown: Cole Gelso

Murphysboro: Joscelin Clark, Brayden Craig, Marcus Gilmore, Gavin Hooks, Brooklin Huffman, Chasey Mears, Haley Peterman, Tatum Price, Dakota Przybocki, Wilma Wimberly

Pinckneyville: Brayden Cleland

Royalton: Kiersten Knox

Springfield: Camerin Leonard

Steeleville: David Coleman

Stonefort: Lillian Steward

Tunnel Hill: Danika Whitehead

Valier: Catrina Russell

West Frankfort: JoAnne Banks, Mya Bradford, Kile Britton, Danielle Broy, Jesse Clinton-Helfrich, Haley Cornaglia, Jacob Prince, Jade Remp, Jayden Smith, Olivia Stewart, Madison Tate, Andrew Woolard

Willisville: Jamie Bowerman

The following students were named to the Fall 2025 Provost鈥檚 List:

Alto Pass: Wyatt Lindsey

Anna: Kyle Conway, Daniel Dover, Logan Ebersohl, Skylar Webb

Ava: Benjamin Deshazo, Kyle Durham, Kendall Farris, Madilynn Holt, Karley Powell, Olivia Thies

Cambria: Victor Bione, Jessica Crawford, Ayden Gill

Campbell Hill: Weston Westerman

Carbondale: Alexis Anders, Christopher Anderson, Jack Binkowski, Dayra Bran Herrera de Mileur, Shamarc Bursey, Grace Carr, Jennifer Cox, Alaina Crayton, Joel Daly, Gwynevere Deaton, Jenna Falco, Macy Glasser, Mattie Griffin, Bria Hunter, Lina Ibrahim, Taylor Ingram, Toiara Kellum, Kendra Kendricks, Alicia Keown, Emily Kersten, Lydia Kramer, Simon Langley, Brenden McNally, Wilson Meinert, John Meredith, Bradley Miller, Nurfarhana Mohamad Ali, Lisa Moore, Ariel Moyer, Alexis Murray, Jaden Patterson, Ariel Quigley, Elizabeth Roberts, Erin Rogers, Aiden Schweitzer, Amaris Shelley, Jason Smith, LeDonn Smith, Evan Torres, Jordan Whitehead

Carmi: Haylie Mendenhall

Carterville: Yeshiya Akinduro, Ross Aldridge, Bradley Anderson, Haley Banovz, Alexis Beers, Hayden Bernreuter, Evan Berry, Logan Bingham, Isabella Boyd, Clarissa Buckles, Emma Burzynski, Maximus Clark, Christopher Clover, Davis Collie, Zoey Danner, Livvia Deaton, Justice Decker, Andrew DeFord, Samantha Doan, Ethan Dorsey, Alyssa Duncan, Dax Dunnill, Ta鈥橫arcus Eaves, Cody Freitas, Joseph Glander, Allyson Goldman, Miller Green, Taylor Hettenhausen, Toby Hollister, Hannah Jarnegan, Isabella Jerrells, Carter Johnson, Jaycie Johnson, Chloe Keen, Addasyn Kell, Treyton Langan, Reagan Lynn, Zoe Mercer, Frankie Nicholes, Taylor Nolan, Makaila Peevy, Daly Penick, Luke Phillips, Shea Pyatt, Jaxon Quint, Brooklynn Reams, John Rozear, Maddox Seaman, Roman Sienza, Abby Stalker, Mallory Strubhart, Rebecca Thompson, Presley Trogolo

Cobden: Agent Inman, Serria Yonts, Alejandro Zamora

Colp: Jacob Rush

Creal Springs: Cierra Lopez, Levi Tanner

De Soto: Crystal Bressner, Addison Cook, Sydney Fred, Addison Stinson

Du Quoin: Benjamin Bringas, Kalena Clark, Raina Hawkins, Alec Hopkins, Kendal Hopkins, Ashanti Johnson, Jill Molina, Jamison Sizemore, Ashtyn Weeks, Savannah Williams, Addison Willis

Elkville: Bridgett Elder, Jaylen Marshall, Rory Monahan

Energy: Branden Graves, Zachary Henson

Glen Carbon: Katelyn Ludwig

Goreville: Michael Moore

Harrisburg: Cody Bynum, Laynie Kleinfeldt, Gabrielle Shires

Herrin: Willow Allen, Joella Brimm, Braden Cagle, Trysta Charlet, Trevor Coloni, Stephan Griggs, Daniel Jensik, Saphyra Lagang-Souders, Mariah Lampley, Morgan Litton, Princess Mays, Julian Mize, Brieanna Napier, Caidence Phillips, Reece Preston, Morgan Restivo, Gage Sneed, Madison Todd

Hurst: Emma Holland, KaCee Stahlheber, Miranda Wyatt

Jackson: Cooper McKay

Jerseyville: Emily Tuey

Johnston City: Kristen Burnett, Ellie Burns, Katlynn Cagle, Zoee Cullum, Corbin Frattini, Diego Garza, Stephanie Gosney, Tinaya Lacy, Landon Lafollette, Toni Ridle, Alicia Sommers, Mallory Wyant

Makanda: Drake Prepejchal

Marion: Tazzy Angus, Chase Banks, Courtney Barrett, Robert Bradley, Rebecca Branch, Rylan Brotherton, Nevaeh Campbell, Makayla Collins, Nathan Craig, Logan Drew, Cohen Gebhart, Valarie Hayter, Jacob Henry, Wyatt Landeck, Alyssa Long, Ryan McCaffrey, Coco McMurtry, Kamaura Miller, Terryn Moyes, Chase Niemeyer, Aiden Peek, Myrka Perez-Mimendi, Nia Posey, Jessica Pouncil, Autumn Ray, Heather Rich, Amya Robinson, Robert Robinson, Grayson Sanders, Shai Schauf, Hannah Schweitzer, Emma Sprague, Brian Staley, Aaron Tabor, Ashley Tripp, Kylee Turner, Riece Utley, Shayleigh Wallis, Kara Zerbe

Mount Vernon: Brandon Ellis

Murphysboro: Alyssa Bastien, Madison Bell, Charles Campos, Tia Dolin, Ian Etherton, Julia Hooker, Tucker Horstmann, McKenna Lally, Ariana Mcbride, Macy Melzer, Mia Neal, Violet Ottwell, Dillion Phoenix, Gabriela Romero, Natalee Smith, Jonathan Taylor, Maya Tripp, Joshua Wisely

Paducah: Jeremiah Pulliam

Pinckneyville: Brian Kling

Pittsburg: Kenadie Cavitt, Cort Edwards

San Antonio: Neil Tronggettumm

St.Ann: Kodie Gordon

Steeleville: Jackson Knop, Christian Rees

Stonefort: Macie Zertuche

Vergennes: Lilyana Mitchell, Isabel Sherman

Waterloo: Ashley Cornelius

West Frankfort: Abigail Banks, Nicolette Basenberg, Julie Beals, Ava Capogreco, Hayden Cole, Travis Crum, Chase Denham, Eric Duncan, Elijah Futch, Ava Harkins, Jessie Johnson, Alena Mason, Nikolette Ronketto, Whitney York

Willisville: Tessa Nehrt

Zeigler: Mackenzie Osburn

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The 麻豆直播 Board of Trustees unanimously approved the naming, and an official dedication ceremony will take place at 11 a.m. Tuesday, October 28, in the Crisp Room of the College鈥檚 Conference Center.

鈥淚t is with great pride and heartfelt appreciation that we announce the naming of our campus day care facility in honor of Dr. Marilyn Toliver, a beloved and respected educator who dedicated more than 30 years to teaching Early Childhood Education at 麻豆直播,鈥� said Provost Dr. Stephanie Chaney Hartford. 鈥淒r. Toliver鈥檚 legacy is woven into the very fabric of our institution. Her tireless commitment to preparing future childcare professionals has had a profound and lasting impact on our region. Generations of students, many of whom are now educators and caregivers themselves, credit Dr. Toliver not only for their academic success but also for inspiring their passion for nurturing young minds.鈥�

A Carbondale native, Toliver is the youngest of seven children and was the first in her family to earn a college degree. While studying social work at Southern Illinois University and raising a young family, she began her career serving the city of Carbondale. She later returned to higher education to pursue her master鈥檚 and doctoral degrees, where her focus shifted toward early childhood education, a field that would become her lifelong passion.

Toliver joined the 麻豆直播 faculty in 1992, where she helped shape and expand the Early Childhood Education Program. Her leadership emphasized not only academic preparation but also compassion and care for young learners and their families.

鈥淲e need qualified, caring, competent teachers for two reasons,鈥� said Toliver. 鈥淧arents need childcare so they can go to work, but children need early instruction so they can be more successful in school. We have children in homes where their parents do not read to them, so they start behind. We also have those with disabilities and learning difficulties who will fall further behind without immediate, qualified teachers giving them the support they need. I feel our program is in a place to do just that.鈥�

Although Toliver officially retired earlier this year, her influence continues to resonate across campus and throughout the community. Former students and colleagues describe her as a mentor, innovator, and tireless advocate for early childhood learning.

Assistant Provost for Academic Affairs Dr. Nathan Arnett said he admired Toliver鈥檚 passion for teaching, her students, her family, and her faith.

鈥淥ne of my favorite memories with Dr. Toliver was when the ECE program brought Pete the Cat author Eric Litwin to campus,鈥� said Arnett. 鈥淚t was such a joy to see her excitement in creating experiences that inspired both teachers and children alike. She met each day with a bright smile and optimism, always seeing the good, sharing it generously, and inspiring others to do the same.鈥�

Dr. Marilyn Toliver has touched countless lives as an educator, mentor, and community leader. Generations of students will continue to benefit from her legacy, and now future 麻豆直播 students will have a permanent reminder of that legacy.

For more information about the dedication ceremony, contact the 麻豆直播 Office of Marketing, Public Relations, and Communications at 618-985-2828.

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By: Hilary Holdinghausen

After a year of determination and a few setbacks along the way, Frank Henson successfully completed the Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) program at 麻豆直播. This was his third attempt at the class. In the past, transportation challenges had kept him from finishing, but through every obstacle, Henson held on to hope and never gave up on the brighter days ahead.

鈥淔rank鈥檚 dedication and spirit are inspiring,鈥� said Assistant Professor of Certified Nursing Assistant Crystal Young. 鈥淗e faced every obstacle with positivity and determination.鈥�

Henson has faced many challenges in his life and continues to overcome adversity. Reflecting on his experience, he emphasized, 鈥渋t鈥檚 been a journey.鈥� Through it all, he remained focused on his goal, knowing that brighter days were within reach if he just kept going.

During the recent CNA Pinning Ceremony, Henson received the Chelsey McKinney Sunflower Award, an honor given to students who demonstrate exceptional tenacity, passion, and positivity.

The award was created in memory of聽Chelsey McKinney, a former 麻豆直播 Nursing Assistant student in Young鈥檚 first class. McKinney worked tirelessly to achieve her dream of becoming a CNA, overcoming every obstacle in her path. She eventually earned her dream job at Herrin Hospital before her life was tragically cut short in a UTV accident. McKinney鈥檚 mother, Melissa, attended the ceremony to help present the award in her daughter鈥檚 honor.

Henson shared a few words of encouragement for others who may be walking their own difficult paths.鈥淵ou can鈥檛 quit because life happens,鈥� he said. 鈥淵ou have to keep on. Don鈥檛 give up. There鈥檚 always a brighter day.鈥�

鈥淐helsey never gave up, and neither did Frank,鈥� Young said. 鈥淗e鈥檚 the perfect example of what this award stands for: heart, hard work and hope.鈥�

Henson鈥檚 journey is a powerful reminder that success is not defined by setbacks, but by the strength to keep moving forward. His story shows that with perseverance and faith, a brighter day is always ahead.

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Leo Loucks聽of Crab Orchard has been riding and roping since he was six years old. By his teens, he had roped and ridden his way to multiple state titles. But on the national stage, success always seemed just out of reach.

That changed after his first year at 麻豆直播.

In July, Loucks closed out his final National Little Britches Rodeo Association season in unforgettable fashion. He became the Senior Boys World Champion Tie-Down Roper, the Senior Boys Finals All-Around Champion, and the Senior Boys Reserve All-Around World Champion, earning three major titles at the NLBRA Finals.

He credited much of that breakthrough to an unexpected source: 麻豆直播鈥檚 Nursing Program.

鈥淣ursing is tough mentally. You have to keep your head on,鈥� Loucks explained. 鈥淓very class has a quiz, every week an exam. Being in that constant pressure situation has strengthened me tremendously,鈥� he insisted. “Rodeo is the same way. When the pressure is on, you have to perform.鈥�

At nationals, Loucks went last, watching 19 competitors before him. In tie-down roping, each cowboy ropes and ties a calf in multiple rounds, and the times are averaged together to determine the winner. With calm focus, he made two clean runs and posted the best overall average time to secure his first world title.

The win was even more meaningful because it came on Little Debbie, a 10-year-old mare he borrowed from a fellow nursing student and longtime rodeo friend from Missouri.

Despite earning nearly $16,000 in winnings and scholarships, Loucks says rodeo will remain a passion, not a career. His future is in nursing. 鈥淪ince junior high, I knew I wanted to be in healthcare. I come from a blue-collar family, and I鈥檒l be the first to go into healthcare. I feel like I was called to help people.鈥�

Loucks had already completed the CNA program in high school and graduated with his LPN from 麻豆直播 in May 2025. In August, he began the RN program, working toward his goal of becoming an ER nurse in southern Illinois.

Balancing full-time nursing school with rodeo travel is not easy, but Loucks is thriving. 鈥淩odeo has taught me life lessons. It鈥檚 more than riding and roping. You learn connections, communication, and that you are your own biggest competition. Nursing is the same way.鈥�

With eight titles to his name and a spot as a first draft pick for the Junior Ironman in 2026, Leo is not slowing down. His advice to future nursing students is simple: 鈥淕et your prerequisites out of the way, master the art of critical thinking, and use study groups,鈥� he said. 鈥淭he nursing program here at 麻豆直播. Logan is tough, but it has instilled a foundation for me to succeed.鈥�

For Loucks, the connection is clear. The pressure of nursing school prepared him to win in rodeo, and the lessons of rodeo prepared him for a career in nursing. Loucks鈥� success in the classroom and in the arena has proven that with grit, discipline, and heart, you can rope your dreams and ride them to the finish line.

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The following students were named to the Spring 2025 President鈥檚 List:

Anna: Austin Adams

Ava: Brayden Guy

Campbell Hill: Shealee Swisher

Carbondale: Mariam Atme, Dion Beals, Fred Beck, A’Niyah Black, Christopher Bradshaw, Madysyn Butler, Josiah Cherry, Gwynevere Deaton, Isaac Ekstrand, Logan Filson, Will Franklin, Isaac Fredrickson, Maxwell Howard, Ronald Hull, Mischa Jamorabon, Michele Jones, Aiden Ledbetter, Allison Lindsay, Kalea Marshall, Kakeya McDade, Aveniel Mohr, Jacie Nunley, Graciella Olandez, Vacheffia Reid, Eden Reinier, Amelia Robinson, Seth Rose, Stephanie Ross, Forest Spiegel, Justin Stehl, Alastor Tolliver, Payton Tuttle, Jordan Whitehead

Carterville: Jasper Bullock, Gabrielle Burkard, Eric Butz, Karson Caudill, Abigail Compton, Alyssa Dawson, Natalie Frye, Katie Futrell, Annalise Gould, Cruz Harlan, Joseph Harner, Ashlyn Harris, Caden Hawkins, Lyla Hess, Taylor Hettenhausen, Delaney Hilpp, Landre Hoehne, Adelyn Horn, Connor Hughes, Cheyanne Kimmle, Nevaeh Laster, Lillian Leadingham, Lauren Lenihan, Neenah Lin, Cody Luttrell, Lauren Lynch, Paige Mausey, Kendall McCalla, Jackson Militello, Kierstin Miller, Trista Moore, Sean Murphy, Sara Niemerg, Cole Noreuil, Kara Phillips, Gracie Ragan, Pablo Rebollar, Parker Renken, Emma Rogers, John Rozear, Julia Schmidt, Maddox Seaman, Maggie Stadler, Tara Stevens, Baleigh Todd, Audrey Upton, Paige Vasquez, Gabrielle Vonderheide, Aliza Williamson, Khrystyna Yakymenko, Kameron Yearsley

Cobden: Anna Staley

Congerville: Austin Wiegand

Creal Springs: Katherine Holmes, Alexis Miskelley, Levi Tanner

Du Quoin: Jolee Bailey, Aiden Caraker, Phillip Carter, Joseph Chapman, Dustin Cluck, Drake Davis, Derick Davis, Mackenzie Edwards, Caitney File, Braden Harsy, Maggie Kellerman, Evette Lewis, Isabella Phillips, Grace Phipps, Greyson Riley, Megan Schuler, Samuel Vancil

Effingham: Marah Kirk

Elkville: Illyana Dobson, Katlyn Rayner, Brayden Wright

Energy: Blake Arnold, Brandi Bailey, Maressa Mize, Lexi Price, Irma Reyes, Dana Reyes

Goreville: Paige Arondelli

Grantsburg: Briley Lehman

Harrisburg: Ethan Doud

Herrin: Olivia Bond, Alexis Campea, Alysah Charlet, Autumn Faivre, Dominick Gentile, Mara Graham, Lawrence Greer, Ava Greiner, Shawn Herring, Madilyn Kerrigan, Hayley Pasquino, Michael Rigdon, Carrington Rolle, Lucas Sissom, Calli Smith, Jesse Switzer, Yeshua Zayas

Johnston City: Kailee Grant, Cassidy Hermetz, Andrew Johnson, Angela Miller, Connor Mowery, John Ray, Delaney Thompson

Marion: Jonathan Aviles, Chase Banks, Macy Bates, Charles Bates, Rebecca Branch, Corey Bruce, Kane Carter, Makayla Collins, Nicholas Cornaghie, Wendy Deutsch, Lucas Ellis, Mia Fernandez, Alana Flood, Nehemiah Goodman, Paige Graves, Keith Haack, Joel Harmon, Ryan Hatchett, Zachary Hill, Sebastian Housden, Maci Johns, Taeler Kee, Wyatt Landeck, Jaxon Lawrence, Collin Marshall, Evan Noelle, Carly Pinkston, Jessica Pouncil, Ella Ray, Allison Rodgers, Jessica Taylor, Kaci Thornton, Joanna Tran, Claire Wittenborn

Mulkeytown: Cole Gelso, Clare Meadows

Murphysboro: David Brunaugh, Zachary Lux, Emily Lyons, Haley Peterman, Mackenzie Watson, Katherine Wilson

Orient: Crystal Ping

Ozark: Lucas Strickland

Percy: Charissa McDonald

Pinckneyville: Garret Huggins, Sadie Lacy

Pittsburg: Kylee McGee, Nathan Sullivan

Rockwood: Landon Hindrichs

Royalton: Autumn Jones

Sandoval: Sarah Evans

Sesser: Jessica Wyciskalla

Steeleville: Madison Haertling, Jackson Knop

Stonefort: Teslyn Jenkins, Lillian Steward, Anniston Zertuche, Macie Zertuche

Thompsonville: Kendal Borchelt, Cole Davis, Kaydence Kelly

West Frankfort: JoAnne Banks, Erica Crites, Chase Crocker, Kaytee Hall, Jordan Joplin, Thomas Levanti, Serenity Pearson, Sydney Phillips, Anna Rolla, Nikolette Ronketto, Morgan Walters, Katelynn Watkins, Andrew Woolard

Willisville: Jamie Bowerman, Tessa Nehrt

The following students were named to the Spring 2025 Provost鈥檚 List:

Alto Pass: Wyatt Lindsey

Anna: Daniel Dover, Maelee Dover, Oregon Dover

Buckner: Tyler Mueller

Cambria: Ayden Gill, Carlie Inman

Campbell Hill: McKenzie Ebers

Carbondale: Sulaiman Alani, Christopher Anderson, Braeden Antoline, Charlie Barnes, Jasmine Beard, Bailey Brown, Rasheia Brown, Viviana Brumley, Terah Carlton, Taylor Carter, Fernanda Chaparro, LaRhonda Chick, Benjamin Chrisman, Kristina Crawford, Monika Dawson, Lierra Gray, Gordon Haley, Michael Hardges, Chaelynn Harris, Keanna Hlavacek, Lina Ibrahim, Kemisola Ibukun, Tyrane Jackson, Megan Kenneth, Eduardo Llamas, Nicholas Love, Gwendolyn Martin, Ann Mays, Ricardo Meneses, Delani Milburn, Omar Naser, Emily Nelson, Alexis Northington, Clatrice Oliver, Alexis Parker, Sabrina Pendleton, Julissa Perez, Sabrina Pendleton, Julissa Perez, Jacob Rinard, Selena Rogers, Jaleela Rollins, Jessica Russell, Blake Shea, Adyson Shepard, LeDonn Smith, Evan Torres, Siham Touza, Alexander VanWinkle, Manuel Vicente, Nola Wallace, Kelly Wright, Miranda Wright

Carrier Mills: Anthony Kalodner, Shamika Suits

Carterville: Yeshiya Akinduro, Nathan Anderson, Josephine Antoine, Bryer Arview, Abigail Banovz, Kendall Blau, Isabella Boyd, Jennifer Braggs, Jackson Burke, Brooklynn Burnett, Zoey Danner, Andrew DeFord, Samantha Doan, Ta鈥橫arcus Eaves, Zena Ennis, Caydance Gibbs, Mikaelyn Jarvis, Jaycie Johnson, Madeline Konstantopoulos, Reagan Lynn, Mariah Maclin, Amelia Maragni, Jeremy McKinney, Jordan Meng, Zoe Mercer, Owen Mowrer, Frankie Nicholes, Taylor Nolan, Elijah Porter, Samantha Scholtz, Zachary Sims, Patricija Tamasauskas, Ensley Tedeschi, Addison Wallace, Jonah Weathers, Grant Wilson, Braden Wright

Cobden: Bryan Calderon, Mitchell Howell, Alejandro Zamora

Colp: Jacob Rush

Crainville: Kyren Cosey

Creal Springs: Kade Rivett

DeSoto: Amanda Bastien, Jacob Cross, Kaitlyn Hanson, Abby Piper

DuQuoin: Nicholas Brown, Landon Caraker, Jakob Eaton, Rachel Emling, Lani Hall, Xander Ingram, Cameron Lemons, Emma Loyd, Brylee Melton, Savannah Provart, Addison Pursell, Ethan Sargent, Justin Walters, Brooklyn Willis

Elkville: Amanda Poppen

Energy: Issac Goldman, Branden Graves, Kara Rowland

Grand Chain: Sydney Blevins

Grand Tower: Savanah Mefford

Greenville: Lauren Hentschel

Harrisburg: Analeia Perez

Herrin: Sydney Allen, Yesenia Atkins, Trent Bennett, Julie Butler, Jarret Coleman, Natalie Coleman, Janiya Harrison, Mollie Hilton, Caleb Hopson, Maezy Lukens, Derek Mann, Joseph McCarthy, Daniel Oliver, Khlowie Parrish, Jason Ralston, Gage Sneed, Jeremiah Youngblood

Hurst: Emersyn Clark, Miranda Wyatt

Johnson City: Ellie Burns, Katlynn Cagle, Jarron McCoy

Lake Zurich: Benjamin Fawcett

Makanda: Dayton Dillow, Simon茅 Prozesky

Marion: Elijah Adkins, Raylena Baldwin, Courtney Barrett, Dane Bell, Nadia Blissett, Easton Branson, Jacob Byers, Antuan Carter, Suzanne Cousin, Ian Edmister, Renee Evrard, Caroline Farthing, Madison Guy, Keira Hance, Andrew Harris, Lorenzo Hightower, Tobie Holem, James Kirk, Riley Korte, Brody Larson, Joshua Loyd, Shauntay Lucas, Caidan Masterson, Isaac McAtee, Kamaura Miller, Madelyn Montgomery, Trenton Montgomery, Parker Nave, Kyleigh Newton, Wyatt Nicholson, Conrad Niggeman, Phoenix Odle, Maxxton Pearson, Taylor Petitt, Kyson Rix, Madison Rogers, Ava Segers. Brian Staley, Abigail Stewart, Erin Stout, Drake Taylor, Hallee Teeling, Malakei Weatherly, Melissa Whitecotton

Mount Vernon: Brandon Ellis

Murphysboro: Morgan Austin, Dayra Bran Herrera de Mileur, Joscelin Clark, Kaitlyn Cowger, Caden Eichholz, Ian Etherton, Lauren Gray, Tucker Horstmann, Miles Howard, Jacob Newton, Dillion Phoenix, Tobius Raines, Callie Risse, Haleigh Tarrants, Owen Thipkhosithkun, Ariel Yisrael

Orient: Amy Dunning

Percy: Mia Jimenez

Pinckneyville: Jacob Anderson, Brian Kling, Jaden Miller

Pittsburg: Caden Clark, Rylee Rutledge

San Antonio, TX:  Neil Tronggettumm

Sparta: Mason Ethington

Steeleville: Dylan Hepp

Stonefort: Tratyn Johnson

Tamms: Abby Menkhaus

Thompsonville: Max Price

Valier: Catrina Russell

Vergennes: Isabel Sherman

West Frankfort: Adam Ashby, Ashlan Galli, Irazander Kramer, Hannah Mullins, Jade Remp, Anastasia Schuessler, Revlyn Willis, Lani Wolfe

Zeigler: Connor Sullivan

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