First Woman Graduate From ICC’s GM-ASEP Recognized

Lamont Kimberlin, Harbinger
Thursday, June 4, 2015

On Thursday, May 21, Randi Hearne Smith of Dunlap was recognized during Illinois Central College’s monthly Board of Trustees meeting. Smith was recognized as being the first female graduate of ICC’s GM-ASEP (General Motors Automotive Service Educational Program).

“It’s been a real privilege to have Randi in the program with us; she’s an exceptional student and role model, said Trevor Imm, professor of the college’s automotive program. “In line with the expression ‘rising tide lifts all boats’; she really was that influence in this graduating class… really, really impressive performance.”

Smith is currently working as an intern at Uftring Weston Chevrolet Cadillac through the GM-ASEP program.

“I was originally working in the back as a technician, but because I have chosen to go on and get a bachelor’s degree in automotive management they [GM-ASEP] have allowed me the opportunity to work as an advisor while I’m in school. I’m very appreciative,” Smith said.

Randi Smith’s daughter, Bree, received recognition for her achievement as a successful sophomore studying Business Management at Illinois Central College. She is maintaining a 4.0 GPA, and at only 15 years old.

Also recognized at the meeting were Retiring Chair James Polk, who received a plaque, and ICC’s women’s softball team.

James K. Polk has served as a member of the Board of Trustees since 2008. He also served as trustee in 1993.

The ICC women’s softball team was acknowledged for their success both academically and athletically, having a GPA of 3.2 this year and finishing off their season with a record of 34-19.

The women were also recognized for their involvement in a blood drive collecting 70 pints of blood in a period of two days.

Furthermore, while at nationals, the girls visited a children’s hospital where they talked with patients and acted as role models for the children.

In addition to these recognitions, board members mentioned healthcare insurance costs for the college are down 3.1 percent this year. However, it was explained that this decrease was due to claim activity and therefore subject to change.

Board members say that this decrease in costs is contributing to a small surplus in this year’s budget.