The Sauk Valley College Foundation has received a generous $50,000 donation from longtime supporter Linda Giesen to support the college’s Impact Program, an initiative that broadens access to higher education while helping build a stronger local workforce.
Giesen’s contribution reflects her lifelong commitment to Sauk Valley Community College and its students. As a former employee and the founder of the Dixon Law Library at SVCC, she has played a key role in creating opportunities for generations of students in the Sauk Valley.
“Linda Giesen reflects the best of the Sauk Valley,” SVCC President David Hellmich said. “She is a gracious person who, after an incredible career, is extending her legacy through her giving to the Impact Program. Volunteerism is dear to Linda, and volunteerism is at the heart of the Impact Program.”
The Impact Program enables local high school students to earn up to three years of tuition and fees at SVCC by completing community service, maintaining academic progress, and preparing for college. Through this, students not only access affordable education but also develop strong values in civic engagement and leadership.
Since its launch, the program has involved thousands of students, produced more than 100,000 volunteer hours, and built partnerships with hundreds of nonprofit organizations—creating a strong cycle in which students support their communities while communities invest in their futures.
Giesen’s donation will help ensure that more students, regardless of financial circumstances, can attend college and contribute to the region’s economic growth.
“My parents did not attend college. However, they insisted that their three children attend college and graduate,” Giesen said. “It was not a choice. I am so thankful that they set that expectation for me. My advanced education opened so many doors for me. Having been on the faculty at SVCC, I know that many students struggle to make ends meet. I hope that my contribution will enable future students to access opportunities without worrying about how to pay for their education.”
As a last-dollar scholarship model, the Impact Program depends on private philanthropy to bridge funding gaps and maintain long-term success. Contributions like Giesen’s open doors for student achievement and support their pursuit of higher education.
Giesen’s leadership stands as both an inspiration and a call for others to invest in the Impact Program.
“Every gift to the Impact Program is an investment in our region’s future,” said Lori Cortez, vice president of Advancement at SVCC. “When you support these students, you strengthen our communities, our businesses and our shared prosperity for generations to come.”
The Sauk Valley College Foundation accepts contributions through checks [payable to the Sauk Valley College Foundation, a 501(c)(3)], multi-year pledges, automatic bank deductions, gifts of land or grain, qualified charitable distributions or required minimum distributions from retirement accounts, as well as estate or planned gifts. The Foundation team works closely with donors and their advisers to help structure meaningful contributions.
For more information or to make a gift, contact Cortez at 815-835-6260 or [email protected], or visit svcc.edu/give.
Leave a Reply