Black Hawk College Students Named to the 2026 All-Illinois Academic Team

Four Black Hawk College students—Richard Feltner (Kewanee – East Campus), Jacob Larson (Moline – Quad-Cities Campus), Caitlin McClafin (East Moline – Quad-Cities Campus), and Krishna Patel (Wyoming – East Campus)—have been named to the 2026 All-Illinois Academic Team. This prestigious recognition highlights exceptional academic achievement, leadership, and service that benefit society beyond the classroom. Each year, colleges may nominate two students per campus for this honor, which is presented by the Illinois Community College Board, Coca-Cola Scholars Foundation, and Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society. The All-Illinois team acknowledges the hard work and commitment of community college students, with recipients going on to inspire others and represent academic excellence statewide.

The Coca-Cola Scholars Foundation provides over $3.5 million in scholarships each year, supporting more than 1,400 college students through nationally recognized programs. Their commitment includes the Coca-Cola Community College Academic Team Program, which distributes 200 stipends annually. The Illinois Community College Board oversees a robust network with 45 colleges, serving more than half a million residents annually. Phi Theta Kappa, the world’s largest honor society for two-year colleges, boasts over 4.5 million members and nurtures student leadership and academics internationally.