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2022 Commencement Lists

Class of 2022

Health Science Class of 2022

Nursing Class of 2022

HSE Class of 2022

2022 Awards

SWIC Dine & Dash event aims to be fun for whole family

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Help support Southwestern Illinois College scholarships and programming, check out cool classic cars, dash across campus, grab a bite to eat from a food truck and rock out with live music at the Dine and Dash for Education event Friday, Oct. 18 from 4-9 p.m. at the SWIC Belleville Campus, 2500 Carlyle Ave.

The fun begins at 4 p.m. with a car cruise and food trucks. Live music begins at 5 p.m. and the 5K run/walk takes off at 5:30 p.m.

“We’ll have something for everyone from food and music to face painting and classic cars,” said SWIC Foundation Executive Director Rena Thoele. “We want people in the community to come out, have a good time and learn more about SWIC.”

Get information and view demonstrations from several of SWIC’s academic programs. Kids will enjoy face painting, pumpkin decorating, bounce houses, and puppet shows with American Sign Language interpreters.

The Classic Car Cruise will feature automobiles from Belleville Gear Jammers Classic Car Club. Live music will be provided by The Woo Daddies, a popular St. Louis based band whose style ranges from Blues and Jazz to Rockabilly and Pop.

Food trucks will be on-hand serving Mexican, Indian, and American cuisine, with vegetarian and vegan options available. Pirtle’s will be selling their famous ice cream for dessert. Beer, soft drinks, and water will also be offered.

For more information or to register for the 5K walk/run, visit swic.edu/foundation.

Save lives, donate blood at SWIC Belleville & Red Bud Campuses Sept. 10

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Save the lives of up to three people by donating blood during the upcoming American Red Cross Blood Drive Tuesday, Sept. 10 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Southwestern Illinois Belleville Campus, 2500 Carlyle Ave., in the Main Complex Varsity Gym or from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the SWIC Red Bud Campus, 500 W. South Fourth St., in the Performing Arts Room.

“We need every donation we can get in order to maintain the supply in our region,” said College Activities and Student Life Director Amy Brockman. “Your donation truly will make a difference. We hope to see you!”

All types of blood are needed, especially O Positive. If you do not know your blood type, you can find out when you donate.

To donate you must weigh a minimum of 110 pounds and be at least 17 years old. If you are 16 years old and wish to donate in Illinois, you need a permission form signed by your parent or guardian. New donors should bring proper identification, such as a driver’s license or a state ID.

Individuals are encouraged to set an appointment time, but walk-ins are welcome and will be accommodated as quickly as possible.

All presenting donors will receive light refreshments and a place to rest briefly following their donation.

For more information or to make an appointment, call 618-235-2700, ext. 5561, or toll free at 866-942-SWIC (7942), ext. 5561.

SWIC President appointed to Governor’s manufacturing strategic planning committee

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Nick J. Mance
Norma Bellcoff
Norma Bellcoff

Gov. JB Pritzker recently appointed Southwestern Illinois College President Nick J. Mance to the state’s Policy Academy on Strengthening Your State’s Manufacturing, a committee dedicated to developing and implementing a strategic plan to strengthen manufacturing in Illinois.

In addition, Gov. Pritzker appointed SWIC Foundation Board Chair Norma Bellcoff, vice president of Business Development/Trust at TheBANK of Edwardsville, to serve on the Board of Trustees of the Teachers’ Retirement System.

Mance has 25 years of service in community college leadership as a SWIC Trustee from 1993-2018, and 20 years as chair of the SWIC Board of Trustees, before becoming president of the institution in July 2018. He is a Certified Public Accountant, with more than 30 years of senior business management and leadership experience.

“I’m honored and excited for the opportunity to serve on the Governor’s Policy Academy,” Mance said. “This is a chance to strengthen the relationship between education, industry and our state government with the goal of improving our economy.”

The Policy Academy is charged with developing and implementing a plan that will improve retention and competitiveness of manufacturers in the state; increase Illinois manufacturing productivity and sales; and prepare the Illinois workforce for high-demand manufacturing jobs.

Mance is one of only four individuals in the state appointed to the Policy Academy Core Team. The Policy Academy is part of a five-year statewide economic development plan.

Bellcoff’s role on the Board of Trustees of the Teachers’ Retirement System will be to work with other Board members to oversee the operations of the TRS. The Board ensures the continual delivery of the retirement security promised to members by maintaining the highest and most efficient level of service.

Bellcoff has been in the financial services industry since 1988 and began her career at Argosy Gaming Company as assistant director of investor relations before joining A.G. Edwards Trust as a trust officer. Bellcoff joined TheBANK in 2010.

In addition to serving as chair of the SWIC Foundation Board, she also serves on the Marquette Catholic High School Foundation Board as well as other foundation boards and the Southwestern Illinois Division Auxiliary Board of Directors of the United Way of Greater St. Louis. Bellcoff received her bachelor’s degree in finance and accounting from Duquesne University in Pittsburg, Pennsylvania.

For more information, call SWIC at 618-235-2700, ext. 5247.

Explore ceramics and pop culture pieces at The Schmidt Art Center

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Starting in August, three solo exhibitions at the William and Florence Schmidt Art Center will offer art lovers varying views of American culture through ceramics, a large-scale installation, and drawings and prints.

Artists Nanette Boileau, Todd May and Daniel Stumeier’s exhibits will be displayed from Aug. 22 through Oct. 10 at The Schmidt. An opening reception will be held from 4-7 p.m., Thursday, Aug. 22 and artist talks at 6 p.m. at the art center on the Southwestern Illinois College Belleville Campus, 2500 Carlyle Ave.

The exhibits offer viewers a chance to reflect on the timeless exploration of wheel-thrown ceramic forms using natural gas reduction; investigate a large-scale installation about varied and non-conformist paths of Americans fighting for their dreams; and view drawings and prints that examine Midwest American popular culture in light of current attitudes toward race and class.

“These exhibits give us a chance to discuss current events within our society and culture,” said Schmidt Curator Nicole Dutton. “As well as, reflect on the past and hopes for the future.”

For more information about these exhibitions, The Schmidt, the art center’s calendar of events and arts education programs, visit swic.edu/theschmidt or call 618-222-5ART (5278).

SWIC ranked No. 5 top value for nursing programs in Illinois

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Southwestern Illinois College’s Nursing Education program is ranked No. 5 for Best Value in the state, according to online magazine Nursing Explorer.

The magazine rated 1,721 nursing programs in 45 states based on information from the Department of Education and the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education and Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing, Inc. SWIC placed at the No. 5 spot out of 63 programs in Illinois.

“We’re very proud to offer such a high-quality program at an affordable price,” said Julie Muertz, dean of the SWIC Health Sciences and Homeland Security Division. “Our program is well-known throughout the Metro East and St. Louis for graduating qualified RNs. I’m glad we’re getting recognition at the state level too.”

The ranking scores are based on the NCLEX nursing exam pass rate and the institution’s net-price. Each school was awarded a score between 1 and 100 that reflects the quality of education offered at the school and the program’s affordability. Rankings can be viewed at https://www.nursingexplorer.com/states/illinois.

If a school has a high NCLEX pass rate and low tuition, then its ranks will be higher. Averaged over the last five years, SWIC has a 90 percent NCLEX pass rate. Tuition and fees are only $122 per semester credit, plus financial aid and scholarships.

SWIC offers a two-year Associate in Applied Science degree in Nursing Education. The program includes classroom and hands-on lab instruction, as well as clinical experience working with real patients in health care facilities.

Registered nurses provide a variety of comprehensive medical services that range from promoting good hygiene to administering medication in order to maintain or restore a patient’s good health. Nurses practice in hospitals, nursing homes, clinics, physicians’ offices, schools, industries and home-health-care settings.

For more information about the SWIC Nursing Education program, contact the Nursing Education Director Angela Gilbreth at 618-235-2700, ext. 5268 or angela.gilbreth@swic.edu, or visit swic.edu/nursing.

Set sail on a Caribbean Cruise to Mexico, Belize and Honduras with PSOP in 2020

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Have you been dreaming of tropical sands, coral reefs and island blue water? If so, then let Southwestern Illinois College Programs and Services for Older Persons make it a reality in 2020!

This unique excursion is jam-packed with things to do and features something for everyone. Join PSOP Feb. 15-23, 2020, for an eight-night journey to explore Tampa, Florida; Costa Maya, Mexico; Harvest Caye, Belize; Roatan, Bay Islands, Honduras; Cozumel, Mexico and all the Norwegian Dawn cruise ship has to offer.

The adventure begins with a one-night stay in Tampa before boarding the Norwegian Dawn cruise ship. Once aboard the ship, there are numerous amenities and activities to choose from including live entertainment, spa treatments, a casino, swimming pools, mouth-watering dining options and more.

Highlights of activities available while visiting some of the locations include traveling 100 feet below the sea in a submarine; exploring an underwater protected marine park; visiting stunning beaches; exploring ancient Mayan ruins and learning secrets of the Mayan culture. Other activities include: viewing the beautiful coral reef on a glass bottom boat tour; tasting local cuisine and indulging in sweet treats; seeing dolphins; snorkeling in sparkling waters or alongside stingrays; ziplining over the Caribbean Sea; taking a ride in a dune buggy or catamaran; strolling through a jungle canopy on a suspension bridge; catching a tuna fish; golfing on a championship course; relaxing at a private pool-side cabana; taking a scenic drive for photos; shopping at local craft markets; viewing the stunning sites of Tabyana Beach; discovering how the Mayans made chocolate and more.

The eight-night trip leaves Saturday, Feb. 15, 2020. The trip includes local roundtrip airfare and airport transfers; motor coach transportation in Florida; one night lodging in Tampa with breakfast; baggage handling throughout the trip; gratuities for local and Florida motor coach drivers; seven-night cruise in selected accommodations; ALL meals and entertainment on board the ship; all port charges, government taxes and fees; customary shipboard gratuities; services of SWIC PSOP travel representative. In addition, there is also your choice of two of the following FREE amenities: FREE unlimited beverage package, FREE specialty dining package, internet package, $50 shore excursion credit (per port, per stateroom), or a photo package.

The deposit to reserve your spot for this once-in-a-lifetime, excitement-packed excursion is only $500. Prices begin at only $2,349 per person. A passport is required and must be valid through Aug. 24, 2020. For more information or a brochure, call Group Travel Specialist Nancy Bauer at 618-234-4410, ext. 7020 or nancy.bauer@swic.edu.

Police Academy Graduates

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SWIC Session 138 Police Academy Graduates

The Southwestern Illinois College Police Academy recently celebrated the graduation of Session 138. The SWIC Police Academy is an intensive academic and physical training program designed to prepare recruits to enter a career in law enforcement. It is one of only seven police academies in Illinois.

Graduates include, from left, front row:

Officer Leonard L. Bowen of the Rock Island Police Department

Officer Kelsey A. Bowman of the McLeansboro Police Department

Officer Ethan A. Brinson of the Belleville Police Department

Officer Thomas C. Carlock of the Jacksonville Police Department

Officer Alexander R. DeWall of the East Alton Police Department

Officer Nathan R. Eck of the Flora Police Department – Winner Academic Honors Award


Second row:

Officer Gregory M. Ferguson of the Rock Island Police Department – Winner Defense Tactics Award

Officer Claudia P. Gallegos of the Belleville Police Department

Officer Brandon T. Genenbacher of the Hamilton Police Department  

Officer Timothy D. Herink of the Farmington Police Department

Officer Adam S. Heuser of the Madison Police Department

Officer Gary C. Hoaks of the Clifton Police Department


Third row:

Officer Mason T. Ingram of the Waterloo Police Department – Winner Jeremy Chambers Top Gun Firearms Award  

Officer Tyler R. Johnson (of Fairmount) of the Vermilion County Metropolitan Enforcement Group

Officer Samantha K. Jones of the Southern Illinois University Edwardsville Police Department

Officer Andrew R. Krump of the Columbia Police Department

Officer Joshua D. Lee of the Oregon Police Department

Intern Katelyn M. Lucia (of Highland) of the Illinois Law Enforcement Training Standards Board

Officer John P. Lulek of the Arthur Police Department Officer

Jordan M. May (of Collinsville) of the SWIC Public Safety Department– Winner Best Overall in Physical Fitness Award


Fourth row:

Officer Tylor G. McBride of the Litchfield Police Department

Intern Lane G. Messerli (of Greenville) of the Illinois Law Enforcement Training Standards Board

Officer James B. Miller of the Prophetstown Police Department – Winner Most Improved Over all in Physical Fitness Award

Officer Jordan M. Miller of the Belleville Police Department

Officer Joseph R. Myers of the Cahokia Police Department

Officer Raymond J. Navarro of the Burnham Police Department

Officer Justin L. Nollau of the Belleville Police Department

Officer Andrew R. M. Ray of the Flora Police Department – Class President and Southern Illinois Police Chief’s Association Most Outstanding Officer Award


Fifth row:                       

Officer Joel R. Rush of the Belleville Police Department

Officer Cydny T. Saxer of the Jacksonville Police Department

Deputy Jacob M. Seed (of Lawrenceville) of the Lawrence County Sheriff’s Office

Intern Scott Waldrup (of Mascoutah) of the Illinois Law Enforcement Training Standards Board

Officer Bryant J. Weaver of the Sesser Police Department

Officer Justin S. Webb of the McLeansboro Police Department

Officer Tyler M. Wildrick of the Havana Police Department


SWIC photo by Dena Roland Woods 6-4-19

SWIC releases spring 2019 dean’s list

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The following is a list of full- and part-time students on the Southwestern Illinois College Dean’s List for the Spring 2019 Semester.

This list includes full-time students who completed 12 or more semester hours during the semester and part-time students who completed six or more semester hours during the semester while maintaining a 3.5 or higher grade point average.

The students’ names are listed alphabetically according to hometown: SWIC Spring 2019 Dean’s List.

For more information, contact SWIC Enrollment Services at 618-235-2700 or 866-942-SWIC (7942), ext. 5455.

SWIC releases spring 2019 grad list

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The following is a list of Southwestern Illinois College students who graduated at the conclusion of the Spring 2019 Semester. The students’ names are listed alphabetically according to hometown.

The list also denotes students who graduated with honors (a 3.5 grade point average or higher) and with a perfect 4.0 GPA: SWIC Spring 2019 Graduate List.

For more information, contact SWIC Enrollment Services at 618-235-2700 or 866-942-SWIC (7942), ext. 5786.

Complete the SWIC Steps to Enrollment during July Registration Blitz

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If you’re thinking about college but are worried about the college enrollment process, Southwestern Illinois College can ease your mind. You can complete the SWIC steps to enrollment for the Fall 2019 Semester during the July Registration Blitz at the Belleville Campus, 2500 Carlyle Ave.

Stop by at any point during these days and times: Wednesday, July 24, from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m.; and Thursday, July 25, from noon to 5 p.m.

During the July Registration Blitz you can:

  • Complete an application and get a student ID number.
  • Take the SWIC Placement Test for English and Math.
  • Meet with an academic advisor to discuss degree requirements or transfer courses.
  • Set up eSTORM and SWIC student email accounts.
  • Ask general financial aid and payment arrangement questions.
  • Register for classes.

Check-in with Admissions in the Information Sciences Building Lobby. Please bring a photo ID!

For more information, email the SWIC Admissions Office at admissions@swic.edu or call 618-235-2700, ext. 5675.