Kaskaskia College Celebrates Excellence at 2026 Annual Awards Banquet
Kaskaskia College recognized outstanding students, faculty, staff, and community partners during its 2026 Annual Awards Banquet held Thursday, April 16. The annual event brought together the college community to celebrate achievements, leadership, and service that continue to make a meaningful impact across the region.
KC President George Evans welcomed attendees and reflected on the importance of recognizing those who contribute to student success and to the College’s mission. KC Board of Trustees Chairman Bill Hawley also offered remarks on behalf of the Board, emphasizing the value of dedication and collaboration across the institution and its partners.
Student achievement awards were presented to Clara Elliott of Metropolis, Illinois, who received both the Paul Simon Student Essay Award and the Gandhi/King Peace Essay Award. Meagan Mahlandt, serving as the 2025–2026 Student Trustee, was honored with the Gigi Campbell Student Trustee Excellence Award for her leadership and service.
Faculty excellence awards recognized educators for their commitment to teaching and student success. Steven Ellis of Central High School received the High School Dual Credit Faculty Award. Michelle Hill was named Outstanding Adjunct Faculty Member, and Kelli Malone was recognized as Outstanding Full-Time Faculty Member. Cody Paul received the Horizon Faculty Award, while Stephanie Burgher was honored with the Assessment Award. Kenneth Ingersoll was presented with the Gary W. Davis Ethical Leadership Award.
Employee recognition awards highlighted the dedication and impact of KC staff. Angela Gross was named Outstanding Part-Time Employee of the Year, and Micki Adams was recognized as Outstanding Full-Time Employee of the Year. Charlee George received the Innovation Impact Award for her work as Workforce Empowerment Initiative Director. The KC Enrollment Team was honored with the Synergy Award for their collaborative efforts in supporting students throughout the admissions and enrollment process.
Kaskaskia College also recognized individuals and organizations whose impact extends beyond campus. Dr. Maryann Langenfeld, a Kaskaskia College alumna and longtime supporter of the College, was named the recipient of the Distinguished Alumnus Award. Southern Illinois University Carbondale received the Educational Partnership Award in recognition of its collaboration with Kaskaskia College to expand agricultural academic pathways for students. SSM Health, including St. Mary’s Hospital in Centralia and Good Samaritan Hospital in Mt. Vernon, was honored with the Business and Industry Partnership Award for its continued support of workforce development and healthcare education.
Accepting the award on behalf of SSM Health, Damon Harbison commended Kaskaskia College for its strong partnership and continued dedication to strengthening the workforce pipeline, highlighting the impact of the collaboration on the region.
“The success of this year’s banquet truly reflects the strength of our campus community,” said Cary Day, Marketing and Public Information Coordinator and KC Awards Committee Chair. “We received an incredible number of thoughtful nominations, which made for some very difficult decisions. That speaks volumes about the level of talent, dedication, and impact we have across Kaskaskia College and our partners. It was a privilege to celebrate individuals who continue to shape the future of our college and the communities we serve.”
The Annual Awards Banquet highlights the people and partnerships that define Kaskaskia College. Their dedication to student success and community impact continues to move the College and the region forward.