Lake Land College Foundation & Alumni

10/12/2026

Behind every great nurse is a story of why they started.

At Lake Land College, our nursing students are working toward more than just a degree. They're preparing to care for our families, friends and neighbors when they need it most.

For many students, scholarships make it possible to focus less on the financial burden of college and more on achieving their dreams of making a difference.

This fall, we're sharing the stories of students whose futures are being shaped by the generosity of our donors. Your support of the Lake Land College Foundation helps make those futures possible!

Watch as our nursing students share how a Lake Land College Foundation scholarship has helped their healthcare journey.

We're grateful for everyone who plays a part in supporting our students and their dreams.

If you'd like to make a difference in the lives of Lake Land College students through a donation, we invite you to give to the Lake Land College Foundation. Every gift helps support students as they work toward achieving their dreams!

https://host.nxt.blackbaud.com/donor-form?svcid=renxt&formId=2425ee25-9a7d-4ad2-b00d-993688607481&envid=p-rbyEtvWUqUS_bmXg-DjxSw&zone=usa

10/08/2026

We are proud to honor the life and legacy of Lake Land College alumnus and former trustee Mike Sullivan. His 37 years of dedicated service and commitment to our college, students and alumni have left a lasting impact. Sullivan Plaza is a fitting tribute to his remarkable legacy.

10/06/2026

Alumni Highlight: Jessica Hays

For Jessica Hays, Lake Land College was the place where she began building confidence in herself and her future.

As a first-generation college student, Jessica remembers questioning whether she could succeed in college. With hard work and encouragement from Lake Land faculty and staff, family and friends, she discovered just how much she was capable of.

Jessica earned her Associate in Applied Science in Early Childhood Education from Lake Land and went on to spend 10 years in education. She later earned her bachelor’s degree from Eastern Illinois University and today serves as an Events and Communications Coordinator with Illinois 4-H, where she helps create opportunities for youth across the state to learn, grow and prepare for their futures.

Her advice to current and future Lakers?
“Believe in yourself, even when you question what you are capable of. You do not have to have everything figured out to take the next step.”

Jessica’s journey is a great reminder that your path may change along the way, but every experience can help lead you somewhere meaningful.

We’re proud to have Jessica as part of One Laker Nation!

10/05/2026

Once a Laker, always a Laker!

Today, on World Teachers’ Day, we’re celebrating all of the incredible teachers who educate, encourage and inspire their students each day!

One of those educators is Lake Land College alum Hannah Hunt ’22. For Hannah, one of the most rewarding parts of teaching is watching her students grow, gain independence and begin discovering where they’re going.

Hannah’s story is just one example of the impact educators make in their classrooms and communities.

Today, we celebrate all teachers, including the many Lake Land alumni who have dedicated their careers to helping students learn and grow.

Happy World Teachers’ Day! 🍎📚

10/01/2026

Throwback Thursday!

On October 1, 1967, Lake Land College published its very first student newspaper!

Originally called the Lake Land Press, the first edition featured a President’s Column, a story about the College’s first-ever social event and information for young men concerned with the draft. Steve Daughtry served as editor, with Joan Raymer and Clifton DeBates as advisors.

Our alumni have been part of Lake Land College’s story from the very beginning!

Take a trip down memory lane and check out this video highlighting Lake Land through the years:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uQz7bzS7T5Q

Enjoy the videos and music you love, upload original content, and share it all with friends, family, and the world on YouTube.

09/30/2026

Alumni Highlight: Sarah & Colin Cole

For Sarah and Colin Cole, Lake Land College is more than where they earned their degrees, it’s part of their story together!

High school sweethearts, Sarah and Colin attended Lake Land at the same time while pursuing different career paths. Their time as Lakers included an extra-special milestone when they got engaged while they were both students!

After graduating in 2017, Sarah earned her bachelor’s degree in Accounting from Eastern Illinois University and now serves as Assistant Vice President and Controller at First Neighbor Bank’s Corporate Office. Colin earned degrees in Ag Power Technology and Agriculture Production & Management and now works as Bagging Lead at Beck’s Hybrids.

The two married in 2019 and are now raising their children, Reed and Lorelai. Looking back, they’re grateful for the education, friendships and opportunities that helped build the foundation for the life they share today.

“Some of the most important moments of our journey together began at Lake Land, and we’re proud to call ourselves Lake Land alumni.”

We’re proud to have Sarah and Colin as part of One Laker Nation!

09/28/2026

Once a Laker, always a Laker. ❤️🖤

For Hayden Birdsong ’20, Lake Land College was part of the journey that took him from a small town baseball field to the major leagues.

After LLC, Hayden transferred to Eastern Illinois University before being selected by the San Francisco Giants in the 2022 MLB Draft. Just two years later, he made his Major League debut.

Hayden’s story is a reminder that it doesn’t matter where you start or how small your hometown may be, big dreams can begin anywhere.

We’re proud to have Hayden as part of One Laker Nation!

09/28/2026

09/23/2026

On September 23, 1970, the Lake Land College Foundation was officially organized! Following the receipt of its certificate of incorporation from the Illinois Secretary of State, 40 individuals from across the district gathered to elect officers and establish the Foundation.

Mrs. James Honnold was elected as the Foundation’s first president, with Tim Helton, Dean of Business Affairs, and Dr. Webb serving as members of the cabinet.

56 years later, the Lake Land College Foundation continues its mission of creating opportunities for students through scholarships, emergency assistance, and the generosity of our donors and community partners.

We are grateful for the vision of those who established the Foundation and for everyone who continues to make a difference in the lives of Lake Land College students today!

Interested in making a difference? Join us in continuing the Foundation’s legacy of supporting Lake Land College students and creating opportunities for future generations. Learn how you can make an impact today!

https://www.lakelandcollege.edu/foundation

09/23/2026

Alumni Highlight: James “Jim” Arndt

From studying Criminal Justice at Lake Land College to founding Arndt Municipal Support Inc., Jim Arndt has built a career in public service and leadership!

Jim began his career as a police officer in Mattoon before moving into local government administration. Over the past 23 years, he has served in leadership roles in Illinois, Missouri, Ohio and Kentucky, including as City Manager of Paducah, Kentucky. In 2021, he opened his own local government consulting business, Arndt Municipal Support Inc., a Lake Land College Community Partner!

Jim credits Lake Land with preparing him for his career and giving him the confidence to continue his education at Eastern Illinois University, where he earned his bachelor’s and master’s degrees in Political Science.

“During my time at Lake Land, I majored in Criminal Justice. The years at Lake Land prepared me for my service in Mattoon as a police officer. It gave me the confidence I needed to pursue further education.”

Jim also shared a fun fact about his college years: He earned straight A’s throughout his degrees at Lake Land and EIU, with one exception. His only B was in Stress Management!

We’re proud to celebrate Jim’s accomplishments and grateful for his continued support of Lake Land College students through his Community Partnership!

Would you like to be featured in an upcoming Alumni Highlight, or know a Laker whose story deserves to be shared? Nominate yourself or a fellow Lake Land alum for a future feature!
https://www.lakelandcollege.edu/alumni/share-your-story/