Dr. Linda Denton retiring after 26 years at RLC

INA, Ill. (May 27, 2014) - Linda Denton, Rend Lake College Physics and Physical Science professor, is officially retiring at the end of the month after working at RLC for 26 years.

Denton obtained her Ph. D. in Engineering Science, with a specialization in Mechanical Engineering and Energy Processes, from Southern Illinois University Carbondale. The Tamaroa resident started her career at RLC in August of 1988 as a full-time instructor. In the past, she has also been an advisor to students in the engineering program and served on the Academic Council at RLC.

In her retirement letter, Denton said, “I have enjoyed my 26 years with the college and appreciate the opportunities RLC has provided me.” In 1998, Denton received the RLC Foundation Faculty Excellence Award.

Linda Denton

Last year, Denton was named to the General Education Core Curriculum Illinois Articulation Initiative and was tasked with facilitating the transfer of students among higher education institutions in Illinois. Specifically, she was named to the Physical Sciences Panel. Additionally, she worked to ensure the smooth transfer process for engineering students by working with four year institutions to create inter-district 2+2 agreements.

“Dr. Denton has built a solid Associate of Engineering Science program at RLC,” said Chris Kuberski, Vice President of Academic Instruction. “She challenges her students to ensure that they are prepared for transfer to a four year institution. As a result, they respect her and comment as to how well-prepared they were. That is a clear testimony to her efforts.”

In the past, Denton has also corresponded with local high schools to host the annual WYSE (Worldwide Youth in Science and Engineering)contest on behalf of RLC.

“Linda Denton is a leader in her field, a student advocate and was instrumental in the annual WYSE contest hosted by Rend Lake College. Her coordination of the competition activities during the lunch break for students has been a popular part of the WYSE contest,” said Andrea Banach, Dean of Math and Sciences Division.