Project Success counselor Aseret Loveland of Spring Valley has received the Illinois Valley Community College Connie Dzierzynski Skerston Memorial Award for Support Staff Distinguished Service. The annual honor, now in its 26th year, recognizes exceptional contributions among support staff at IVCC. Nominated by colleagues, Loveland was praised for her compassion and dedication to student engagement. Since joining the college in 2015, she’s played a key role in enhancing orientation and transfer programs. In addition to her on-campus leadership roles, Loveland is active in several local organizations. Other nominees were also recognized at the April 16th employee recognition event.
“Both roles let me connect with students to help them feel excited about their futures. Those interactions energize me and remind me how meaningful it is to play even a small part in their college journey by supporting and empowering them. I did not always have that level of guidance in high school and I understand how impactful that support can be,” Loveland said.
Loveland met Skerston briefly when she was interning at IVCC and remembers her energetic spirit and can-do attitude. “I like to think she left that energy behind for others to carry forward. I feel incredibly fortunate to have stepped in to a role shaped by her impact and it means a great deal to be recognized in a way that continues her legacy.”
Scoma wrote that students are naturally drawn to Loveland, who “looks for ways to build connections and team spirit and to elevate others. She is equally comfortable stepping forward to lead when needed or stepping back to allow others to shine.”