This is the first time that the CSC Alumni Association has honored an individual with the Pacesetter Award

2008-2009
Pacesetter award Winner…

John Devine
1947-2008

John Devine is being recognized posthumously for his contribution to the Carl Sandburg College community through his dedication to advocate for people with disabilities.

Devine was a student who was legally blind. He decided to return to school at age 56 to reach his goal of empowering those with disabilities in the areas of goal building, self esteem, and technology awareness. He maintained a 3.9 grade point average, was a member of Phi Theta Kappa and received multiple scholarships. Devine showed exceptional writing skills and CSC instructors use his writing samples as reference in their class instruction. He graduated from CSC in May 2007 with an Associate in Arts degree and had begun studies toward a Bachelor’s degree at Knox College.

While at CSC, Devine tutored students in Earth Science, gave memorable speech on Braille, and spent time in the ceramics studio on the potter’s wheel. He served as Vice President on the Board of Directors for the Stone-Hayes Center for Independent of Living and was a speaker and panelist in the community.

Devine passed away on December 1, 2008.