Banterra Student of the Month: Emily Heard
INA, Ill. (September 24, 2025) — Join Rend Lake College in celebrating one of their students each month, sponsored by Banterra Bank. These students are selected based on their GPA, as well as their campus and community involvement. The September Student of the Month is Emily Heard (Valier).
Heard is a sophomore in the Pre-Pharmacy program at RLC, who is working part-time at the Ina campus' coffee shop, Blended. She was nominated for the Student of the Month for her enthusiasm and passion towards her academic journey.
“Emily’s enthusiasm and proactive approach truly set her apart," said Emily Jones, RLC Biological Sciences and Anatomy & Physiology Instructor. "She cares deeply about her academic journey and puts in the effort to make the most of every opportunity. I know she’ll go on to do wonderful things, and I’m excited to see all that she accomplishes.”
Heard is a member of Phi Theta Kappa, and she is on the President's List for her GPA. After graduating from RLC, Heard plans to attend SIUE School of Pharmacy to earn a Doctor of Pharmacy. Her career goal is to work in pharmaceutical compounding or medical research.
"My time at Rend Lake has been great so far. I've had some excellent professors that have really helped me out and get me to where I am now," shared Heard. "My professors, Emily Jones and Alex Martin [RLC Mathematics Instructor], have supported and guided me on my journey to find my true passion."
RLC is delighted to see Heard recognized for her upstanding character – not only by our faculty and staff, but also by members of our community, such as CEO of Banterra Bank Jeff May.
“Banterra was happy to partner with Rend Lake College for the naming rights of an upcoming renovated sports facility, the Banterra Sports Complex, because we are two organizations that are committed to supporting Southern Illinois and our youth,” said May. “As part of that partnership, we are honored to sponsor a Student of the Month program which recognizes an outstanding RLC student each month for their achievements.”
The Game Plan is an ongoing project to renovate and expand the facilities at Waugh Gymnasium at RLC. Banterra Bank acquired naming rights of the Banterra Sports Complex. It's the largest corporate naming rights agreement to date. Groundbreaking took place in fall 2024 and renovations are nearing the final stage.
About the Banterra Sports Complex
The planned Banterra Sports Complex at Rend Lake College will include the existing James “Hummer” Waugh Gymnasium as well as a new addition to the space. Waugh Gymnasium is one of the original buildings on the college’s campus and in 1995 was named after Waugh, a long-time coach and educator with nearly 50 combined athletic seasons to his credit when he retired. In addition to the gym, it includes athletic offices and locker rooms.
