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Ullin, IL (September 17, 2025) —Shawnee Community College (SCC) has been honored with the inaugural Excellence in Innovation Award for Career and Technical Education at the Illinois Community College Board’s annual Forum for Excellence event. The award recognizes outstanding achievement in the category of Career Technical and Adult Education: Building Pathways for All Students.
The Excellence in Innovation Award highlights Shawnee Community College’s commitment to expanding educational access and workforce training that equips students with the skills needed to thrive in today’s rapidly evolving economy. Through forward-thinking initiatives and strong partnerships with local employers, SCC continues to strengthen pathways for students of all backgrounds to succeed in high-demand career fields.
“This recognition demonstrates the dedication and creativity of our faculty and staff who continually develop innovative ways to serve our students and community,” said Kristy Stephenson, Dean of Career and Technical Education at Shawnee Community College. “We are committed to building pathways that not only prepare our students for meaningful careers but also meet the workforce needs of southern Illinois and beyond.”
SCC’s Career and Technical Education and Adult Education programs serve as a cornerstone for regional growth, offering training in healthcare, agriculture, automotive technology, welding, business, truck driving, and other critical industries. By combining hands-on learning, industry-recognized credentials, and wraparound student support, Shawnee Community College ensures that all learners, traditional and adult, have the opportunity to achieve success.
Vice President of Academic Affairs Dr. April Teske notes this recognition reflects the College’s mission of providing comprehensive, high-quality education: “Our students, faculty, and staff are the heart of this award. This honor affirms the life-changing work happening every day at Shawnee.”
The Forum for Excellence is sponsored by the Illinois Community College Board and hosted by the Illinois Center for Specialized Professional Support at ISU and the Southern Illinois Professional Development Center at SIUE. It brings together educators, administrators, and policymakers to celebrate best practices and recognize outstanding programs across Illinois.