MCC grad Justice Peterman named college’s Blanco Spirit Award winner

Student speaker Justice Peterman addresses the class of 2024 at McHenry County College's Winter Commencement Ceremony on Dec. 14, 2024.

McHenry County College recently recognized Justice Peterman with its Joseph A. Blanco Spirit Award, which includes a $600 scholarship.

Peterman was nominated by Jarrett Wolske, coordinator of accommodations, and Jen Michalios, an accessibility aide, both in the college’s Access and Disability Services Department, according to a news release from MCC.

The award was founded in 2009 by MCC tutor and ADS staff member Joe Blanco, who died in 2011. It honors students who inspire others every day with a positive spirit and can-do attitude.

“Justice’s ability to balance his course demands with extracurriculars, work and familial duties is a testament to his academic dedication,” Wolske and Michalios wrote in their nomination letter. “Most importantly, Justice embodies the spirit of Joe Blanco. Justice reminds us that the most important characteristics – positivity, tenacity and dedication – often go unseen. By receiving this award, we show Justice that we see him, that he has a home in this office, and that the best is yet to come.”

Peterman graduated from MCC on Dec. 14 and was the ceremony’s commencement speaker. He plans to continue his education at Illinois State University this spring.

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