IVCC trustee Jane Goetz presented with IVCC Spirit Award

OGLESBY – Jane Goetz of Ottawa was honored Thursday night at the Illinois Valley Community College board meeting for her years of service to students, the college and Foundation. IVCC President Jerry Corcoran presented Goetz with the college’s Spirit Award – a bronze eagle statue – “For extraordinary service to students, the college and Foundation.”
Goetz joined IVCC’s Foundation in 2004 and served until her election to the board in 2013. She was board chair for four years and continues serving as a trustee.
Executive Director of Community Relations and Development Fran Brolley said Goetz and her husband Keith are among the Foundation’s most generous donors and added, “It’s the personal touches that set Jane apart.”
Those include caring for the flower beds and bushes and assisting as a literacy volunteer at IVCC’s Ottawa Center. Among other examples, Brolley noted Goetz visits Ottawa Center early on the first day of each semester to welcome students and staff with home-baked goods.
“Jane, you could have been content to rest on your exceptional career as a teacher and principal … but instead you took your election to our board as a call to action and engagement – and championed our mission,” Brolley said.
The Spirit Award, created to honor community members who have made a substantial contribution to the college, has been awarded 11 times since 2004. Previous recipients include Brad Schorn, Walter Durley Boyle, Bill Strong, Sen. Gary Dahl, William Taylor, Robert Eschbach, Tom Walsh, Patricia Seibert, Jack Cantlin and O.J. Stoutner.