University Park, IL–(ENEWSPF)– Each year an outstanding senior from each of the four-year degree granting institutions of higher learning in Illinois is named a Student Laureate of The Lincoln Academy of Illinois.
This year’s Lincoln Laureate from Governors State University is Sheryl Yarbough of Chicago Heights. Yarbough exemplifies the characteristics of Lincoln Laureates who are chosen for their commitment to the principles of democracy and humanity as embodied by Abraham Lincoln. She was also honored for her excellence in curricular and extracurricular activities.
The Lincoln Academy of Illinois established the award in 1965. Each recipient receives the Student Laureate Medallion and a certificate of achievement. Yarbough and other award recipients participated in a ceremony in Springfield recently, in the Old State Capitol. A luncheon honoring the recipients was held in the Executive Mansion followed the ceremony.
“It was an honor to be recognized for my academic achievements as well as my extracurricular activities,” said Yarbough. “I was raised to serve the community and to volunteer and help when I can.”
Yarbough returned to college after an absence of more than 20 years to earn her associate’s degree, Cum Laude, from Moraine Valley Community College and her Bachelor’s of Arts Degree in Interdisciplinary Learning, with High Honors, from Governors State Universityin August.
Her extracurricular activities include Student Senator, Chair of the Student and Academic Affairs Committee, and Secretary for the Student Senate. She is a student mentor and a GSU University Honors Scholar.
Currently, Yarbough is working on her self-developed internship, which involves raising money to help fund the GSU Promise, a scholarship program designed to help students earn a baccalaureate degree debt free. She is also studying for her Master of Arts in Communication and Training.
“Ultimately, I hope to help motivate other to succeed as a life coach,” she said.
