INA, Ill. (October 26, 2026) — Join Rend Lake College in celebrating one of its students each month, sponsored by Banterra Bank. These students are selected based on their GPA, as well as their campus and community involvement. The October Student of the Month is Vada Webb (Whittington).
Webb is a sophomore Agricultural Business major who plans to transfer to Southern Illinois University at Carbondale and pursue a degree in Crop, Soil and Environmental Science after she graduates in December 2026. Webb's ultimate goal is to become an agronomist and work hands on with farmers and excel in field work.
"RLC has been an incredible opportunity," shared Webb. "It would not have been possible without the support of my family, and without Kathy Helmers who is an excellent professor/mentor. '"
"Vada is a great student who has worked incredibly hard to finish her degree early," said Kathy Helmers, Agriculture Professor. "She has even taken extra courses along the way to make her transfer a little easier. Vada is also always willing to volunteer when we need students to help with events in the Ag Department. She has been a great student to have in our program, and we will definitely miss her when she graduates in December."
RLC is delighted to see Webb recognized for her upstanding character — not only by faculty and staff, but also by members of the community, such as CEO of Banterra Bank Jeff May.
“Banterra was happy to partner with Rend Lake College for the naming rights of the 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.”
Banterra Bank's naming rights of the Banterra Sports Complex is the largest corporate naming rights agreement to date. Renovations are complete and a ribbon cutting was held February 11.
About the Banterra Sports Complex
The Banterra Sports Complex at Rend Lake College includes 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.