John Wood Community College to honor Rapp with first Pathfinder Award for five decades of service

QUINCY — John Wood Community College (JWCC) is set to celebrate its first Pathfinder Award ceremony to honor Jim Rapp, the college’s legal counsel for its 50-year history, from 5:30 to 8 p.m. on Thursday, Dec. 5 at the Quincy Country Club.

A formal program begins at 6 p.m. Guests will enjoy heavy hors d’oeuvres as they gather to celebrate Rapp’s exceptional contributions to JWCC and the wider Quincy community.

Rapp’s work has left an indelible mark on JWCC by:

• Championing the need for a community college in the region at the college’s founding;
• Development of college facilities;
• Establishing, along with his wife Martha Rapp, the Save Our Students “SOS” Fund, which provides financial support for enrolled students with unanticipated needs that would interrupt their educations.

Martha contributed to documenting the college’s journey by supporting her and others’ work by authoring JWCC’s 50th anniversary commemorative book.

The Pathfinder Award will be awarded annually to people, businesses or organizations that embody JWCC’s mission and values and exhibit the trailblazing spirit of the college’s founders.

“Jim Rapp’s unwavering commitment to JWCC has shaped the very foundation of our institution,” JWCC President Bryan Renfro said in a press release. “His dedication to addressing student needs and building community pathways will impact generations of JWCC students and alumni.”

All are welcome to attend. Instead of a ticket, guests are encouraged to make a donation to the Pathways to Promise Scholarship Fund to honor Rapp. Contributions are not required to attend the event.

The Pathways to Promise Scholarship at JWCC seeks to address unmet student needs in our community by building a large endowment that provides sustained financial support for eligible students who meet specific accountability standards. This scholarship empowers students — including many first-generation college attendees — with career-focused skills and training that prepare them for stable, meaningful jobs to support their families. Pathways to Promise represents JWCC’s commitment to offering a pathway out of poverty, breaking down financial barriers and reducing student debt so every student can pursue a brighter future and make a lasting impact in the community.

To RSVP or make a donation, contact the JWCC Foundation at foundation@jwcc.edu, 217-641-4105 or www.jwccfoundation.org. Those who cannot attend but wish to honor Rapp’s legacy may donate online or send gifts to the JWCC Foundation at 1301 S. 48th, Quincy, Ill.