Seven honored with President's Medallion

Heartland Community College (HCC) has recognized seven individuals for their integral roles in serving the community, expanding the College, serving its students, and paving educational pathways. 

The President’s Medallion award exemplifies the College’s aim to enrich the community by recognizing those who share this mission and live it out through exemplary service, philanthropy, and dedication to advancing opportunities in education. The inaugural recipients of the HCC President’s Medallion Award were first honored in June of 2021.

The following individuals were honored at the Elevate Heartland 2023 event on June 16, 2023 with the President’s Medallion: 

Dr. Jerry and Carole Ringer

Jerry and Carole Ringer have played a crucial role in building and supporting various charities, nonprofits, and important causes in the Bloomington-Normal area. Carole's extensive leadership experience with organizations like the Illinois Symphony Orchestra and BroMenn Foundation for the Mennonite College of Nursing, along with her role as the first Executive Director for the Illinois Prairie Community Foundation, has made her a respected figure and role model for other community leaders.

Jerry's involvement in over 15 nonprofit boards, including his early work with the HCC Foundation Board, built a strong foundation for Heartland Community College. Thanks to his contributions, the HCC Foundation scholarship program has flourished, awarding over $600,000 annually to local students and ensuring a brighter future for the community. 

Dr. Larry and Marlene Dietz

Marlene and Larry Dietz have been instrumental in nurturing educational opportunity for students of all ages. Marlene's dedication to the community is evident through her leadership and involvement in organizations such as the Miller Park Zoo, the Baby Fold, and the Boys and Girls Club, where she has paved the way for countless local children, fostering their growth and providing opportunities.

Larry's lifelong commitment to student affairs has shaped his belief in holistic student success, both inside and outside the classroom. His efforts at Illinois State University, as the institution’s president and in other roles, strengthened transfer pathways for Heartland Community College to ISU, creating a seamless transition and ensuring a supportive environment for students to pursue their academic journey. 

John and Mary Penn

Mary and John Penn have demonstrated exceptional leadership by quietly and effectively addressing the needs of the community for almost five decades. They have worked tirelessly, side by side with those in need, to find practical solutions and have positively impacted the lives of thousands. As a dedicated team, they have chaired the Children's Christmas Party for Unemployed Families, volunteered for the Illinois Special Olympics, and actively participated in local Promise Councils, which provide essential resources and support to grade school children. 

John's initiatives to generate employment opportunities have garnered recognition from state leaders, while Mary's efforts in expanding the reach of HCC Foundation events have increased attendance and support, changing people's perception of the community college and its profound impact on local students. 

Robert (Bob) Brucker

Bob, originally from Cropsey, Illinois, has deep roots in agriculture, with his family's involvement dating back to their settlement on the homestead in 1866. After a successful teaching career at Washington High School following his completion of bachelor's and master's degrees in business education, Bob served in the Army before joining State Farm, where he worked in the accounting department until his retirement in 2016. In 2017, Bob embraced a new chapter in his life by enrolling as a credit student at Heartland Community College, where he leveraged his professional experience to both learn and mentor in the classroom, drawing on the principles that made him successful throughout his career.

“We are proud to recognize these individuals who helped elevate Heartland to what it is today,” said Heartland Community College President Keith Cornille. “Each recipient of these inaugural awards exemplifies the College’s mission to enrich our community. Though their service, support and actions, this group have made a huge impact on our community and – directly or indirectly – the lives of all our students since the College’s foundation.”