AlumniSpotlight

Alumni SpotlightRebekaHolmboMajor: SonographyProfessional Title: SonographerRebekaHolmbo had worked in x ray for four years and had decided it was time to do something else to further herself. She came toCSC and graduated from the sonography program in 2002. She now works as a sonographer for Dr. Sadler's office in Iowa. "I liked the CSC program the best because I could still live at home because I would just go down one day for classes in Galesburg. The CSC program is in co-ops with other community colleges and so I went with Scott Community College. I could still keep my job part-time and better myself," said Holmbo.

Alumni SpotlightSean ThomasSean Thomas was enrolled in TRIO in the fall of 2007 and joined because he was interested in the services the program provided like help with transferring and scholarship assistance. "I thought it was going to be one of those hold your hands and help you through things, but it definitely turned out to be one of the best things at Sandburg for me. They helped me with everything from transferring to a university to personal guidance," said Thomas. "They became very good friends of mine. I have become more cultured through them by going to all of the trips and shows they offer." Sean was awarded the TRIO Outstanding Student Award in 2009 for his participation in the program. Sean transferred to SIUto complete a bachelor's degree in elementary education.

Alumni SpotlightDorian RileyProfessional Title:Assistant Manager, Advance AmericaDorian graduated from CSC with an AA degree in May 2006 and also received an accounting certificate in December of 2006. She thenearned a Bachelor's degree in Law Enforcement and Justice Administration with a minor in political science at Western Illinois University in August 2008. She was a member of the Centennial Honors College while at WIU. She is currently working as an assistant manager at Advance America, an installment loan company and is applying to law school.

Alumni SpotlightBrian ChaseMajor: PsychologyProfessional Title:Director of Normal Public LibraryClass of: 1993“When considering whether to attend CSC, students should look at the potential return on investment, and be honest with themselves about what type of environment may be best,” said Chase with advice for those considering CSC.’

Alumni SpotlightGayla PachecoMajor: SociologyProfessional Title: Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) Manager for the HQ, Army Sustainment Command in Rock Island, IllinoisClass of: 1982Pacheco was a non-traditional student at CSC working during the day and taking classes at night to complete her degree. She was unsure at the beginning of her educational journey whether she was cut out for college."At one point I wasn't sure I was college material. But, I remember one professor, Mr. Bob Johnson, psychology, who told me that 'our brains were like a muscle, the more we use it the stronger it becomes.' That statement has stayed with me throughout my life knowing that anyone can do anything they want as long as they work hard for it," says Pacheco.