Illinois Central College

Six Illinois Central College students represented the College at the 2026 Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA) National Leadership Conference in Las Vegas, Nevada, where they competed against top collegiate members from across the country and earned multiple national awards. Students Brook Heeren, Nora Laughlin, Sara Linnemann, Meaghan Miller, Alberto Sepulveda, and Adam West attended the conference alongside faculty advisor Scott Paulsen. In addition to participating in leadership workshops, networking opportunities, and the Illinois chapter meeting, students competed in national business events that showcased their professional skills and knowledge. ICC students earned the following national honors: Meaghan Miller - 2nd Place, Foundations of Selling Nora Laughlin and Adam West - 6th Place, Community Service Project Sara Linnemann - 6th Place, Foundations of Communication Nora Laughlin - 9th Place, Job Interview Notably, the Community Service Project team of Nora Laughlin and Adam West continued ICC's national success by earning sixth place for the second consecutive year in that event. Faculty advisor Scott Paulsen also contributed to the conference by serving as a judge for four national competitive events, while student Meaghan Miller served as a preliminary-round judge for the Future Business Facilitator competition. Congratulations to these outstanding students representing Illinois Central College with professionalism, leadership, and excellence on the national stage.

Mary-Claire Murray has been named Illinois Central College's 2026 Transfer Degree Student of the Year in recognition of her leadership, professionalism, and commitment to serving others. As a Student Ambassador in the Admissions Office, Mary-Claire has helped prospective students and families feel welcomed and supported while representing ICC with confidence and positivity. Her involvement in campus life, including Cru, reflects her passion for building meaningful connections across the college community.

Sage Bollenbach has been named Illinois Central College's 2026 Transfer Degree Student of the Year for his leadership, resilience, and dedication to service. A Student Ambassador and participant in the Disney College Program, Sage has made a lasting impact through his professionalism, strong work ethic, and commitment to helping others. His volunteer work with OSF Children's Hospital of Illinois and mentoring experience at Bloom Community School further reflects his passion for leadership and community involvement.

Sarah Linnemann has been named Illinois Central College's 2026 Outstanding First Year Organization Member for her exceptional involvement and leadership during her first year at ICC. As a member of Rotaract, Sarah has made a strong impact through her passion for service, positive attitude, and dedication to supporting both her organization and the campus community.

Elizabeth Bouchez has been named Illinois Central College's 2026 Organization Officer of the Year for her outstanding leadership as President of the ICC Art Club. Throughout the year, Elizabeth led creative events, exhibitions, and collaborative projects that strengthened student involvement and showcased student creativity across campus. Her leadership helped foster a welcoming and collaborative environment within the organization.

Kaitlyn von Nordheim has been named Illinois Central College's 2026 Applied Science Student of the Year in recognition of her academic excellence, leadership, and campus involvement. As a student employee in the ICC Library, Kaitlyn is known for her initiative, professionalism, and reliability. She is also actively involved in campus life through the Therapeutic Gaming Group, where she helps foster connections and belonging among students.

Bryce Lawles has been named Illinois Central College's 2026 Certificate Student of the Year for his outstanding leadership, reliability, and dedication within the Diesel-Powered Equipment Technology program. Known for his strong work ethic and willingness to help others, Bryce consistently goes above and beyond in the classroom, lab, and internship setting. He is respected by both faculty and classmates for his professionalism, technical skills, and commitment to creating a supportive learning environment.

Illinois Central College would like to congratulate the six students who attended the Phi Theta Kappa (PTK) Regional Convention and Honors Institute held from Friday, May 31 to Sunday, June 2, 2024 at Lincoln Land Community College in Springfield, Illinois.

Seven Illinois Central College students were selected for Phi Theta Kappa's 2024 Distinguished Chapter Officer Team. These exceptional students were honored on stage at PTK Catalyst, Phi Theta Kappa's premier annual event, on April 4-6 in Orlando, Florida.