The “Shining Stars” that Shine a Light on ICC
Al Cuizon Jr.
Nov 7, 2022
“My mission in life is not merely to survive, but to thrive and do everything with some passion, some compassion, some humor and with some style.”, is a quote by Dr. Maya Angelou, a renowned poet and Wake Forest University Professor, exclaimed by Anitria Shaw, Illinois Central College’s (ICC) Vice President of Workforce and Diversity, starting off a night of celebration!
Along with speeches about student success, the well-being of those within ICC, and the people who decided to donate with passion for student success, the “Shining Stars” Community Celebration on the night of Thursday, October 27 had many primary focuses.
The lives of students and appreciation for faculty and staff at ICC were the overall arching factor that brought everyone together. With the theme being “disco night”, the celebration was quite the range, along with the amazing musical performances by the ICC Local Jazz Club, which brought a “shining light” on the night’s theme.
The night included many speakers ranging from the ICC Executive Treasurer, Bruce Budd, exclaiming ICC President, Dr. Sheila Quirk-Bailey’s President’s Letter to the success stories of two student scholars, Marvel Barnes Jr. and Laina Allen, emphasizing the true meaning of student success and scholar support.
There were nearly a thousand people in attendance, with hundreds of scholars taking up most of the attendees. This celebration was mainly for them. One student scholar speaker, Marvel Barnes Jr., mentions the support he has been given throughout his journey through studying Criminal Justice and Law Enforcement at ICC.
“Success is everywhere; you just have to find it,” Barnes said.
With all of the scholars being able to meet their donors, it truly shows that higher education, compassion, and the gift of giving are truly what “shines a star” on those who are ready and able to go on ahead and pursue their dreams.
“When we give cheerfully and accept gratefully, everyone is blessed,” said Dr. Maya Angelou.