Employment and education:

Deanna enrolled at Lincoln Land in the 1968, the year it opened. In 1989 she earned her Associates in Applied in Science, then her Associate in Liberal Arts in 2013. Deanna is retired from her business, Minuteman Printing and Budget Signs.

How has Lincoln Land Community College impacted your life?

It helped shape my values and establish positive goals for the future; built up my low-self esteem and made me realize I could do anything if I was persistent and willing to work hard, and that my yearning for education was not, “The Impossible Dream.” The satisfaction and enjoyment that I received when accomplishing tasks at LLCC cannot be measured.

What have been some obstacles you have had to overcome in pursuit of your educational and/or career goals?

Taking one course at time over a period of twenty years to obtain a better education and job was something I could accomplish with no regrets. The second degree was easier.

What is your greatest accomplishment(s)?

Being able to raise my daughters and watching them get good jobs, husbands and children. Marrying a man with Christian values who built me up and had faith in me. I have had the honor of helping his children have a good home, finish school and lead productive lives after their mother died a young age. Passing on piano and voice to children and grandchildren. In 2015, being able to sing and perform in the “Jane Eyre Musical” at Lincoln’s New Salem Theater In The Park.

Was there a professor, advisor, staff member or fellow student who made an impression on you or helped you when you were here at LLCC?

Professor Thom Whalen welcomed me into his art history class. He was friendly and helped me feel at ease with a large group of young daytime students. Alice Edwards was especially kind and understanding when my husband became ill. Professor “B” (Dean Butzow, Geography) who made learning a pleasure. It is still a favor subject of mine!

Over the years, since 1968, many teacher have been invaluable in the learning process. I have never met a teacher that I didn’t like. One professor taught me to make a business plan. In the 80s, it was still difficult for a female to obtain a business loan without her husband’s signature. I went to three banks before I found one banker that would help me get started with a $10,000 loan. That huge, detailed business plan really impressed the bankers.

Who or what has served as a source of inspiration for you?

Several people.  When I was a single mom, my brother bought me many lunches and gave me gas money and pep talks. My sister took us into her home and kept us until we could get on our feet. My nephew gave me gas money to attend classes. I always wanted to be a teacher like my mother. My second husband encouraged me to attend classes, even when it meant more work for him. We had four children at home during most of that time. We all pitched in with the chores.

What advice do you have for current or future LLCC students?

Establish good moral values and goals for yourself and stick by them. Do not compromise your judgment because other people are doing things that aren’t right. Figure out the steps you need to take to reach your goals. Take one step at a time and mark it off when you accomplish it. If you get sidestepped with personal problems, straighten them out and come back as soon as you can and start again. Do not procrastinate when it comes to your education. Be passionate in getting your education. It is your life. The earlier you can get it under your belt, the better.

What did you like about LLCC or what is your favorite LLCC memory?

Sitting on the hall floors in blue jeans, munching on snacks and studying between classes. In later years, attending live classes with young people. They were so helpful and cordial to me.  I made some lasting friends while at Lincoln Land. Getting good grades when I worked hard.

Is there anything else that you would like to share?

In 2009, I was named Mother of the Year for Illinois. I was recently elected the Illinois President for the American Mothers Association and attended the 1915 Convention in Washington, D.C.