INA, Ill. (Jan. 13, 2014) - Cindy Caldwell, Rend Lake College Mathematics Associate Professor, recently made a donation of a bench and flower pot to the RLC campus in honor of her parents, who she credits with her success.
Caldwell, of Christopher, said it was her parents’ encouragement that helped her work toward her degree in education, even after she told them she didn’t want to go to college. It was one of the toughest lessons she had to learn, and she said she couldn’t have done it without her parents at her side.
The bench and flower pot are located on the north side of the South Oasis, facing the RLC Clock Tower. A plaque has been placed on the flower pot with an inscription from Caldwell to her parents, Millie and Clif. It reads, “You have been the best parents for me. You joined in with my laughter but moreover comforted my broken heart. You relished in my success along with caringly encouraging me through my failures. However, the greatest gift of all was your unconditional love for me.â€
In addition to the bench and flower pot, Clif Caldwell is also remembered on campus in the form of the Clifton Caldwell Endowment Scholarship through the RLC Foundation. After his passing in 2004, the family looked to keep his memory alive and help the students of Rend Lake College. The scholarship helps students majoring in math and journalism every year.
RLC Foundation CEO Shawna Manion added the new addition to campus will also honor one of the biggest supporters of the Foundation.
“Cindy’s mother, Millie, has been a strong supporter of Rend Lake College students through her position on the Foundation Board for almost 35 years,†said Manion. “Her daughter follows right in her footsteps by supporting her students daily as an Associate Professor at RLC. The campus now has a permanent tribute to a family that truly understands what we are all here for, our students.â€
Caldwell said she looks forward to seeing students use the bench on campus, and indeed using it herself.
