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 2023 Winner – Betsy Jones Bladel

Betsy Jones Bladel, a dedicated lifelong learner and educator, graduated from ICC in 2001 with an associate degree in Library Technology and later earned a Bachelor of Science in Organizational Leadership. Throughout her career, she demonstrated a commitment to community service and education.

Notably, she played key roles at Peoria Public Library, Goodwill Industries, Common Place, and Neighborhood House Association Peoria, focusing on literacy, vocational services, and community development. Despite technically being retired, Betsy continues to tirelessly advocate for education, ICC, and libraries.  The 2023 Distinguished Alumnus award recognizes Betsy’s unwavering dedication to providing educational opportunities for disadvantaged individuals in the community.

Betsy Jones Bladel

Nominate the Next Distinguished Alumnus

We want to recognize an outstanding ICC Alumnus who has excelled in the three areas listed below:

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. 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)

Alumni Association

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East Peoria Campus
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