INA, Ill. (May 31, 2024) – Rend Lake College is proud to announce that Jeff Fairbanks, Associate Professor in the Culinary Arts program, has been named the 2024 Outstanding Faculty Member of the Year.
This prestigious award recognizes Fairbanks' exceptional dedication to teaching, his innovative contributions to culinary education, and his unwavering commitment to the community and student success.
"It was totally unexpected and a great honor," said Fairbanks, reflecting on his achievement. "I appreciate the most that it came from all those here at RLC. To be judged worthy of this blows my mind!"
Fairbanks, a RLC Culinary Arts program alumnus, has over 15 years of experience in the restaurant industry, including roles as kitchen manager, Sous Chef and Executive Chef. Since beginning his teaching career at RLC in 2008, first part-time and then full-time in 2011, he has continually updated the curriculum with new and innovative concepts from the culinary world. His approach to education is rooted in real-world experience, making him a knowledgeable and engaging instructor highly valued by his students and peers alike.
Known across campus for his team spirit and generosity, Fairbanks exemplifies excellence in teaching through his dedication to student engagement and success. He brings enthusiasm and positive energy into every class, using his extensive industry experience to enrich his students' learning with practical examples and challenges.
Fairbanks' philosophy on education centers around the transformational power of mentorship and the duty to assist others. Initially never envisioning himself as an educator, Fairbanks' diverse job experiences underscored his natural inclination towards creativity and helping others. He said his life changed when he pursued higher education, where hands-on, knowledgeable instructors prepared him for success and inspired him to become an educator himself. Fairbanks is continually amazed by the opportunity to positively impact students' lives, acknowledging the significant role mentorship played in his own path and emphasizing the joy found in aiding others to achieve their potential. He champions the belief that everyone deserves a chance at success and that even small acts of help can profoundly influence a student's life, underscoring the overarching importance of support and guidance in education.
In addition to his classroom duties, Fairbanks has played a crucial role in developing innovative programs that enhance culinary arts education at RLC, including his current project of developing a production learning lab modeled as a chocolate factory at the new Southern Illinois Manufacturing Academy, opening later this year at the RLC MarketPlace in Mt. Vernon. He has been a driving force behind the curriculum updates in the Culinary Arts program and has introduced new instructional initiatives, including transitioning to a new learning management system and refining assessment processes. His efforts extend beyond the classroom through his involvement in community education courses, youth camps and collaboration with community events, where he and his students frequently participate.
"Chef Fairbanks has been an invaluable mentor to me ... imparting not only culinary wisdom but also profound life lessons," said Madison Shepard, a recent graduate of the Culinary Arts program. Shepard's testimony highlights the nurturing environment Fairbanks creates, fostering not just skill development but also personal growth and a sense of purpose.
In his commitment to the community and beyond, Chef Fairbanks plays a vital role in various technical and special committees. His leadership within the college's Institutional Assessment Committee and contributions as a faculty mentor exemplify his dedication to enhancing education quality. Additionally, his involvement with the Academic Council and the Culinary Arts Advisory Committee, coupled with his role as the sponsor for the Culinary Arts Club, showcases his commitment to community engagement and professional growth for students.
Rend Lake College congratulates Chef Jeff Fairbanks on this well-deserved recognition and looks forward to his continued contributions to the culinary arts education and the college community!
About Rend Lake College: Rend Lake College, located in Ina, Illinois, provides high-quality, accessible educational opportunities and services to promote student success and strengthen the community. Offering a wide range of academic programs, including the acclaimed Culinary Arts Program, RLC is committed to excellence in education and lifelong learning.