Lincoln Land Community College honored recipients of the 2018 Pearson Master Teacher and Distinguished Service awards at the 24th annual Employee Recognition and Appreciation Ceremony May 9.
Carmen Allen, Ed.D., of Springfield, professor of computer programming, was named the 2018 Drs. Raymond and Ann Pearson Master Teacher. The award is presented annually to an outstanding full-time LLCC faculty member who practices his or her profession in an exemplary manner.
Dr. Allen has been a member of the full-time teaching faculty since 1996. Individuals who nominated Allen for the award noted that she provides a zest for learning and never gives up on students, helping them succeed. She holds an associate degree from Lakeland College, a bachelor’s degree from Eastern Illinois University, a master’s degree from University of Illinois Springfield and a doctorate degree from Ferris State University.
“After 22 years, I have discovered that the key to student success is building bridges between myself and students — bridges that lead to more effective teaching, learning and support,” says Allen. “When bridges are strong, communication is clear, relationships are meaningful, and students thrive.”
Finalists for the master teacher award were Mark Hardiman of Springfield, professor of theatre; Taiebeh Hosseinali of Springfield,professor of teacher education; Rich Teeter of Rochester, professor of agri-business management; and Katie Tice of Springfield, professor of accounting.
The college also awarded the 2018 Distinguished Service Awards to individuals who demonstrate exemplary leadership and service to the college community, promote a student-focused environment and exhibit a strong commitment to the college’s core values. Distinguished Service Award recipients were Dr. Jason Dockter of Chatham, professor of English; Karen Sanders of Nokomis, executive director, LLCC Foundation; Misty Hagstrom of Chatham, graphic design specialist; and Rick Lashbrook of Beardstown, utility worker, LLCC-Jacksonville.
