Historic Induction Ceremony for Incarcerated Students at DACC

A significant milestone in higher education was achieved on December 18, 2025, when the Danville Area Community College (DACC) held a ceremony inducting 21 incarcerated students into the Phi Theta Kappa (PTK) honor society at the Danville Correctional Center. This event marked the first PTK induction within an Illinois correctional institution, highlighting DACC’s commitment to accessible education and its belief in the transformative power of learning.

Founded in 1918, Phi Theta Kappa serves as the official honor society for two-year colleges, recognizing exceptional academic achievement, leadership, and community service. Membership in PTK provides students with access to prestigious scholarships, leadership development opportunities, and a global network of high-achieving scholars. Since 2018, the society has welcomed incarcerated students across the United States, reinforcing the idea that academic excellence can thrive in any environment.

The inducted students met the same rigorous standards expected of all PTK members, which include being enrolled in a two-year college program, completing at least 12 credit hours, and maintaining a cumulative grade-point average of 3.5 or higher. DACC’s program reflects the institution’s dedication to offering educational opportunities that can change lives.

Wendy Brown, a microbiology professor at DACC who teaches at the correctional facility, expressed pride in the achievement. “This moment represents what community colleges do best — open doors, change lives, and recognize potential wherever it exists,” she stated.

During the ceremony, Ronnie Johnson, a PTK co-sponsor, addressed the students, emphasizing the significance of their accomplishments. “Your achievements today reflect who you are becoming: leaders, scholars, role models, parents, mentors, and individuals rebuilding their lives through purpose and perseverance,” he said. Johnson underscored that this recognition extends beyond academic excellence; it symbolizes redemption and growth.

Community Engagement and Upcoming Events

In addition to the induction ceremony, DACC remains active in fostering community engagement. The college is set to host a second annual Candlelight Community Labyrinth Walk on December 24, 2025, at St. James United Methodist Church in Danville. This event, running from 20:00 to 21:00, will follow an indoor Christmas Eve service and is designed to celebrate the Winter Solstice and Christmas Eve. The outdoor labyrinth, located west of the church, offers a tranquil space for reflection and is accessible to all.

Moreover, the Vermilion County Conservation District (VCCD) recently announced a new logo, designed by local firm WhiteSmith Marketing Group, Inc. The logo was selected from over 60 submissions and represents the diverse recreational and educational opportunities throughout Vermilion County, showcasing its natural beauty. The redesign competition had a cash prize of $500 and aimed to engage the community in celebrating the county’s heritage.

Honoring Local History

As part of Vermilion County’s Bicentennial Celebration in 2026, the Illiana Genealogical and Historical Society (IGHS) is sponsoring the Pioneer Recognition Project. This initiative honors the early settlers of Vermilion County by issuing Pioneer Certificates to direct descendants of individuals who settled in the area by 1876. These certificates recognize the legacy of early residents and aim to preserve the county’s rich history.

Certificates will be awarded in three categories: Trailblazers (before 1826), Early Pioneers (1826–1850), and Old Settlers (1851–1876). Each certificate is printed on archival-quality parchment and features imagery representative of the county. Applications are open to anyone with eligible ancestry, and the cost per certificate is $10.

“This project provides a meaningful way for families to honor their ancestors while contributing to the documentation and preservation of Vermilion County’s rich history,” said Mark Denman, a representative of IGHS.

For more information on the Pioneer Recognition Project or to apply for a certificate, individuals can contact IGHS at 217-431-TREE (8733) or via email at [email protected]. The IGHS office is located at 215 W. North St., Danville.

These initiatives reflect DACC’s and the community’s commitment to education, history, and engagement, creating opportunities for residents and acknowledging their heritage.