Alumni Awards

Distinguished Alumnus Award

Please complete the nomination form no later than August 30, 2024.  

Each year, the Heartland Community College Alumni Association recognizes an individual who through their accomplishments, both personally and professionally, personifies the values of the College. To be considered for the Distinguished Alumnus award, candidates need to meet the following requirements:

• Completed a minimum of 30 semester hours at HCC;
• Achieved success of an exceptional nature within their chosen field or profession; 
• Made a positive impact on his/her community, through leadership and/or active volunteering;
• Agrees to be present at the annual Celebration of Excellence event on Thursday, November 8, 2023, in addition to reviewing his/her application for the Illinois Community College Trustees Association (ICCTA) Distinguished Alumnus Award. The ICCTA Distinguished Alumnus Award recognizes the many success stories of Illinois' community college students.

Alumnus Achievement Awards

Community Service Award

Awarded to an alumnus who has demonstrated a commitment to their community through significant contributions to public or private programs that improve or enhance the quality of life of individuals, families, and communities. 

Career Service Award

Awarded to an alumnus who has exceptional career and professional accomplishment that reflect favorably on his or her profession. 

College Engagement Award

Awarded to an alumnus who has provided exceptional service to Heartland Community College, by either serving on committees, boards, acting as a mentor or other service/support.   

Selection Process

All completed nominations will be scored utilizing a scoring rubric, by a panel of reviewers, consisting or no less than three individuals.  The nomination (s) receiving the highest overall score, will be named the Distinguished Alumni.  If there are nominations which score high in one of the three additional Alumnus Achievement Award areas, they could be selected as that award recipient.  

Only one nomination is all that is required.  Nominations not selected for the Distinguished Alumnus Award will be considered for the Alumnus Achievement Awards.    

No single nominee can receive the Distinguished Alumnus and an Alumnus Achievement Award in the same year.