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 – Dr. Keith Knepp
A proud alumnus of ICC, Dr. Knepp earned his associate degree in 1991 before continuing his education at Illinois State University and the University of Illinois College of Medicine. He also holds an MBA from the University of Massachusetts, which he completed in 2019.
Dr. Keith Knepp now serves as the President of Carle Health Greater Peoria and is a dedicated healthcare leader with a deep connection to Illinois Central College. His journey in healthcare began in 2000 as a physician in Eureka, Illinois, and in 2007, he joined the faculty of the Family Medicine Residency Program at Methodist Medical Center in Peoria. Before stepping into his current role as President, Dr. Knepp held numerous leadership roles, including Chief Medical Informatics Officer, Executive Vice President, and Chief Operating Officer.
In addition to his professional achievements, he is active in the Central Illinois community, serving on several non-profit boards. Dr. Knepp also coordinates and delivers medical care and educational activities in underserved populations.

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
- 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)