Three Rivers College has been a stepping stone for all walks of life throughout Southeast Missouri. Whether someone attended for one semester or saw it through until earning an associate's degree, alumni are an integral part of the institution.
To recognize the accomplishments and achievements of the college's graduates and former students, Three Rivers is now seeking nominations for the 2018 Distinguished Alumni Award.
"Three Rivers and its alumni are the leaders and lifeblood of our community," said TRC Board of Trustees Chairman Eric Schalk. "This is an opportunity for the school to honor those who have given back to us all."
The submission deadline is Dec. 11. A spring reception will be held on TRC's campus during which the winner will be announced.
"Since we introduced this award in 2016, we have honored two very distinguished alumni who are pillars of our community," said TRC Director of Development Michelle Reynolds, who added nominees are not required to have graduated from TRC to qualify.
"As long as you've taken even one credit hour at Three Rivers and spent time on our campus, you're considered an alum" she said.
Previous Distinguished Alumni Award winners are certified financial planner Erick Kirkman of Kissinger and Kirkman Investment in Poplar Bluff and journalist Stan Berry, editor of the Daily American Republic. Though Kirkman and Berry each served as the keynote speaker for TRC's spring commencement ceremony in 2016 and 2017, it is not a requirement of the winner.
"We don't want to discourage anyone from submitting a nomination because they think that person will have to speak at graduation," Reynolds said. "It is entirely up to them whether they want to or not. But if anyone can connect with a graduate, it's someone who has been there in the past."
Reynolds said it is important to note any nominations submitted in previous years may be resubmitted for consideration for the 2018 award.
Nominations can be submitted by going to trcc.edu/distinguished and filling out the form provided. Forms may also be mailed upon request.
Nominees will be judged on the merits of their personal and professional achievements. A committee drawn from college employees and the Three Rivers Endowment Trust will choose the winning nomination.
"This is a great way to shine the light on people who got their start at Three Rivers College and went on to contribute greatly in their communities," Reynolds said. "I can't wait to see the nominations for this year's award."
For more information on the Distinguished Alumni Award, the Alumni and Friends program at TRC, or on how to donate to the college, visit trcc.edu/development or contact Michelle Reynolds at michellereynolds@trcc.edu or at 573-840-9077.