INA, Ill. (May 19, 2026) — Rend Lake College students Henry Meinert (Benton) and Hannah Utlaut (Sesser) have been distinguished as 2026 Southern Illinois University of Carbondale (SIUC) Provost’s Scholars, receiving one of the university's most prestigious transfer honors.
Hannah Utlaut and Henry Meinert surprised by SIUC officials, RLC President Lori Ragland, and their families for the SIUC Provost Scholarship.
Both were recently named recipients of the 2026 SIUC Provost’s Scholarship. This high-honor award covers two full years of tuition and fees, recognizing only 25 students from a national pool of 115 applicants.
The news was delivered in person when officials from SIUC visited the Ina campus to celebrate the students' academic excellence and commitment to leadership. While their career and academic goals differ, both Meinert and Utlaut represent the Warrior spirit through their dedication to their studies and their community.
Meinert, who served as the 2025-26 RLC Student Trustee, has balanced his academic responsibilities with professional ventures. As the owner and operator of HC Meinert Enterprises LLC, he manages real estate investing and renovation projects.
Beyond his business, Meinert is a member of the Franklin County VentureWise Board of Directors. His long-term goal is to transition into Agribusiness Economics at SIUC, eventually serving as a financial advisor for farm families and rural communities.
"Rend Lake College has given me the opportunity to grow both academically and personally," said Meinert. "These experiences have pushed me to stay disciplined, work hard, and take advantage of every opportunity available to me."
RLC President Lori Ragland said, "Henry was an outstanding student trustee for Rend Lake College, and we are excited to see him continue with his education and ultimately give back to his community."
"Henry meets every opportunity with confidence and a willingness to jump in with both feet," says Mary Huggins, Executive Assistant to the President. "I have no doubt he will continue doing good for our community for years to come."
Pictured (L-R): Executive Assistant to the President Mary Huggins, Executive Director of Administrative Services Cathy DeJarnette, Henry Meinert, and President Lori Ragland
Hannah Utlaut has been equally impactful on campus, serving as an outstanding student worker in the Office of the President. Her role has made her a familiar face in the administration, where she is known for her maturity and strong sense of responsibility.
In addition to her work in the President’s Office, Hannah is an active member of Phi Theta Kappa. She plans to continue her studies in Biological Sciences at SIUC, a path supported by the solid academic foundation she built during her time at RLC.
"Rend Lake College has provided so many great resources and opportunities that have helped set me up for success in achieving my goals," Utlaut shared. "I am incredibly grateful, this scholarship is truly such a blessing."
Cathy DeJarnette, Executive Director of Administrative Services at RLC, worked closely with Utlaut during her time as a student worker. "Hannah has been truly dependable and such an asset to our department. I know she will keep that attitude as she moves to the next level in her education," DeJarnette said.
Karessa Keyser, Executive Assistant of Instruction & Student Affairs, describes Hannah as "an absolute joy" with an exceptionally sharp mind. "Her hard work ethic and strong moral compass are a true reflection of the values of the scholarship," Keyser noted.
Pictured (L-R): Event Coordinator Sydney Clayton, Executive Assistant of Instruction & Student Affairs Karessa Keyser, Executive Director of Administrative Services Cathy DeJarnette, Hannah Utlaut, President Lori Ragland, and Executive Assistant to the President Mary Huggins
Despite their individual achievements, both students view this success as a collective effort. They credit the mentors, teachers, and community members at RLC who provided the encouragement necessary to reach this milestone.
For Hannah, RLC provided the essential resources to set her up for success. For Henry, the college offered a unique space to grow both academically and personally while managing his professional and leadership responsibilities.
As the two move on to SIUC, they do so with the full support of the faculty and staff who mentored them. RLC remains dedicated to fostering an environment where students can achieve their long-term goals and make a lasting impact on their communities.
Congratulations, Hannah and Henry!
