Sauk Valley Community College to honor outstanding alumni

DIXON - A lifelong educator, a business owner and an overachieving student will be honored during Sauk Valley Community College’s 55th annual commencement Friday.

The alumni association nomination committee selected recipients based on peer recommendations and notable accomplishments.

Betty Obendorf, a 1972 graduate described as a lifelong educator with indisputable leadership skills, was chosen as the Distinguished Alumni recipient.

The award honors a particular achievement of noteworthy value, a series of such achievements or a career of noteworthy accomplishments that bring honor to the college.

Obendorf graduated from Sauk with an associate of arts degree. She completed her undergraduate studies in science-education at Northern Illinois University, graduating magna cum laude where she also earned her master’s.

Obendorf taught in the Polo Unit School District for more than 20 years. After her retirement, she became the volunteer curator at the Polo Historical Society where she educates visitors and continues to teach and assist students with research. She’s written a weekly history column for the Tri-County Press since 1997.

She also authored two historical books, The Gallant 15th of ILLINOIS History of a Civil War Volunteer Infantry Regiment and Abolitionist Railroad in Buffalo Grove.

“Obendorf demonstrates an ongoing commitment to community service through her involvement in organizations like the Polo Economic Development Group—the new Polo Fresh Food Market is one example of the group’s success,” according to a news release.

She is a member of Chapter DW PEO Sisterhood and was bestowed the Buffalo Grange Community Citizen Award in 1999 and Polo’s Citizen of the Year in 2001.

“She is often described as a wealth of information and has the wisdom to share her knowledge with all she meets,” according to her nomination.

The Alumni Achievement Award will go to Britni Dvorak, a 2012 graduate and owner of Pam’s Hallmark in Dixon.

The award recognizes alumni 35 or younger whose achievements, public service and/or volunteer activities bring honor to the college. Dvorak attended SVCC through a scholarship after graduating from Amboy High School and earned her associate of science degree before transferring to NIU where she received her undergraduate degree in textiles, apparel and merchandising with a minor in business marketing.

She was the youngest owner in the Hallmark franchise and also owns Fresh Finds Hallmark in Princeton. She has been involved with the United Way of Lee County and received the 2020 Small Business of the Year award.

“She is active in event planning with the Dixon and Princeton Chambers of Commerce and believes strongly in supporting her community and local charities including: Goodfellows of Lee County, St Anne’s and St Mary’s Catholic schools, YWCA, Toys for Tots, Shining Star, youth baseball and softball leagues, and many others,” according to her nomination.

The Future Alumni Award recipient is Anah Chamberlain. This first annual “rising star” award is given to a current SVCC student who seeks out opportunities for personal and educational growth; endeavors to better their communities and College through participation in civic and college organizations, clubs, or initiatives.

Anah is the 2020-2021 Student Government President. During 2019-2020, she was the Vice-President of Service for Phi Theta Kappa; was an active member of the Science Club, Rotaract Club, Intervarsity Christian Fellowship, Informed Student Voter Coalition Club; and served as a student ambassador.

“Anah is very responsible and hardworking. She has led and volunteered for many events, always providing excellent guidance to other students and encouraging students to get involved,” according to her nomination.