Danica Scoma of Utica has received Illinois Valley Community College’s 2026 Frederick W. Matthiessen Award

Danica Scoma of Utica has received Illinois Valley Community College’s 2026 Frederick W. Matthiessen Award, the college’s highest student honor, during IVCC’s 60th commencement on May 16th. The award recognizes scholarship, civic achievement, volunteer service, and commitment to the college community. The award, named for local industrialist and philanthropist F.W. Matthiessen, has been presented for 48 years. IVCC President Dr. Tracy Morris praised Scoma’s leadership, calling her one of the college’s most involved students and one of its first peer mentors.

Illinois Valley Community College student leader Scoma is earning another major honor, adding to an already standout record of achievement. She was named a 2026 Phi Theta Kappa New Century Transfer Pathway Scholar and ranked among the top 20 community college students in the nation on the PTK All-USA Academic Team.

Scoma also earned NJCAA Academic All-American recognition in both years as a student athlete and received the IVCC Foundation’s 21st Century Scholar Excellence award.

On campus, she served as a peer mentor, Student Government Association member, and Student Trustee. She also helped lead the Art Club, IV Leader newspaper, International Club, and Hispanic Leadership Team while volunteering as an art teacher and studying abroad in Spain.

Scoma will attend Graceland University this fall.

“The Matthiessen Award is our most prestigious honor with an emphasis on both scholarship and commitment to service, both at IVCC and in the community,” said Dr. Tracy Morris, president of IVCC. “There are years that we do not have a recipient but this year, it was an easy choice. Danica has truly been one of our most involved students and has had a tremendous impact on the College through her leadership as one of the first peer mentors. Her impact will remain here and continue to grow even after she moves on to her next adventures.”