Distinguished Alumnus Award
The Distinguished Alumnus Award recognizes former students who have achieved success in their chosen field while providing humanitarian services to benefit society and demonstrating continuing support of education and community colleges.
Meet the 2024 Winner – Rick Swan
Rick is a successful pillar of our community who has dedicated his entire adult life to giving back to Central Illinois through advancing education, economic development, and community leadership.
For the past 16 years, he has served as Executive Director of the East Peoria Chamber of Commerce, where he has tirelessly championed workforce development and built strong connections between local businesses and ICC to ensure students are prepared for the evolving regional economy.
Under his leadership, the Chamber has expanded membership, strengthened resources for local businesses, and established a Governmental Affairs Committee that serves as a model for other chambers. Rick has also helped develop the next generation of leaders through the East Peoria Leadership School, which includes many ICC alumni and future students.
In addition to his work with the Chamber, Rick serves as Supervisor of Fondulac Township, demonstrating a strong commitment to public service, and he brings earlier experience from Keystone Steel and Wire, giving him deep insight into the region’s industry and workforce needs. Rick’s associate degree from ICC was the essential foundation for his career and lifetime achievements.
Nominate the Next Distinguished Alumnus
We want to recognize an outstanding ICC Alumnus who has excelled in the three areas listed below:
- Achievement within his/her field or work or expertise
- Committed to improving education in the ICC district
- Outstanding service to the community
To nominate an ICC Alumnus, fill out the form below.
Nominations are due March 31. Any nominations received after will be considered for next year’s award. An individual can only receive this award once in a ten year period.
Previous Winners
- Dr. Keith Knepp (2024)
- Betsy Jones Bladel (2023)
- Dr. Jonathan F. Sauder (2022)
- Sean Arians (2021)
- Christopher McCall (2020)
- Ronald Givens (2019)
- Rachel Reliford (2018)
- Sheri Poe-Pape (2017)
- Sue Yoder Portscheller (2016)
- Matthew Pruitt, Pharm.D. (2015)
- Timothy L. Elder (2014)
- Dr. Phillis Dewitt (2013)
- Cindy Stein (2012)
- Gary List (2011)
- None (2010)
- Kim Blickenstaff (2009)
- Dr. Rebecca Wood (2008)
- Melody Reynolds (2007)
- Tim Wiles (2006)
- None (2005)
- Lisa Merkel Snow (2004)
- Kevin Finch (2003)
- Sharon Doubet (2002)
- Mary Beth Kiefner RN, MS (2001)
- Tom Russell (2000)
- Pete Fandel (1999)
- David A. Facker (1998)
- David W. Johnson (1997)
- Clifford L. Bateman (1996)
- Dr. Katheryn M. Fritz (1995)
- Aurthur Mae Perkins (1994)
- None (1993)
- G. Edward Murphy (1992)
- Catherine Weinberg Haase (1991)
- Dr. Joan M. Besing (1990)
- Jayne F. Bloomfield (1989)
- Judith E. Schaer (1988)
- Jeffrey L. Mills, DVM (1987)
- Carol R. Yates (1986)
- Cheri Y. Burrell (1985)