Local Stars Shine at SIC Honors Luncheon: Celebrating Academic and Athletic Excellence

Southeastern Illinois College (SIC) held its annual Honors Luncheon on April 23 at the Harry L. Crisp Student Center to honor its students. The event recognized students for their academic and extracurricular achievements over the past year.

Two Phi Theta Kappa officers, Brylee Bayer from Equality and Addison Bean from Ridgway, were acknowledged for making the All-Illinois USA Academic Team. This award identifies them as top community college students in the state for their academic and leadership skills.

Keaton Shepherd of Mascoutah was named the Outstanding Archer for 2024. His coach, Ricky Sauls, noted Shepherd's selflessness and dedication, often helping teammates instead of practicing himself. Shepherd, also part of the SIC Clay Breakers, plans to transfer to the University of Tennessee this fall to pursue further education and his athletic career.

In basketball, sophomore Eli Mackey from Morganfield, Kentucky, was named Outstanding Men’s Basketball Player of the Year. His coach, Sam Swinford, highlighted Mackey's excellent performance and perfect 4.00 GPA. Mackey, a national three-point contest finalist, has committed to Emmaus Bible College in Dubuque, Iowa.

Other students recognized included Hunter Henry from Marion, named Outstanding Golfer of the Year, and Trinity Higgins from Kevil, Kentucky, who received the Outstanding Softball Player of the Year award. Both students have excelled in their sports and plan to continue their athletic and academic careers at the university level. Jayden Vorhes of Herrin was also honored as this year’s Outstanding Bowler and will pursue his education and bowling at Quincy College.

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