IVCC holds therapeutic massage graduation

OGLESBY — Illinois Valley Community College’s therapeutic massage program recently held its 15th annual graduation.

Certificate graduates included Taylor Beck of Toluca, Melissa Coleman of Ottawa, Kayla Matheson of Peru, Michaela Russell of Utica and James Van Fleet of Princeton. Advanced certificate graduates included licensed massage therapist Megan Casterella-Russell of LaSalle, Jeffrey Johnson of Earlville, Jon Lowers of Mendota and Rosalinda Torres of Mendota.

IVCC President Jerry Corcoran opened the ceremony and was followed by Dean of Health Professions and Director of Nursing Bonnie Campbell and guest speaker Dr. Wendy Lamboley, an IVCC graduate.

Since its first graduating class in 2000, the program has produced more than 150 massage therapy graduates working full- and part-time in private practice, spas, sports, health care and a variety of other areas. The program has also graduated licensed massage therapists with AAS degrees and advanced certificate.

"Research continues to demonstrate the benefits of massage therapy, particularly in reducing pain, soreness and stiffness, recovery from injury and in relieving stress-related issues,” said program coordinator Cherie Monterastelli.

“The growing number of referrals from healthcare professionals indicates increased integration of massage therapy in that environment,” Monterastelli said. “More licensed massage therapists are finding employment opportunities in healthcare in and outside the district.”

Both the AAS and advance certificate programs focus on health care, projected to be the fastest growing job market for licensed massage therapists during the next five years. For information, contact Monterastelli at 815-224-0507.