Quincy University senior named Lincoln Academy Student Laureate

QUINCY — The Lincoln Academy of Illinois named Quincy University senior Jordan Heeter of Kenosha, Wis., a recipient of the Lincoln Academy Student Laureate Award for 2022.

The award is presented to a senior from each four-year college or university in Illinois who demonstrates excellence in the classroom and leadership throughout the campus and community.

Heeter was honored in a private ceremony held in the QU Chapel. Presentations and remarks were made by Brian McGee, QU president, and Delmer Mitchell, chair of the QU board of trustees.

In a press release, McGee said, “Thanks to the Lincoln Academy of Illinois, each year Quincy University is able to acknowledge the accomplishments of an exceptional student. We are honored to recognize Jordan Heeter as a talented scholar and leader. Jordan exemplifies the very best that our university offers as we help students achieve their life goals.”

Heeter is a forensic psychology and political science double major. She is an active member of the President’s Honors College, serves as captain of the QU mock trial team and is a tutor for the Student Success Center. Heeter also works as an admissions student ambassador and meets with prospective students and their families.

“From freshman year, I knew that I wanted to make the most out of college. At every step, my professors have encouraged me to think beyond the limits I had set for myself,” Heeter said. “They pushed me to consider more opportunities, consider things I never thought I would be able to do and consider paths that I did not even know were options. Working in admissions, I was constantly surprised by the amount of trust and faith people had in me.”

This is the 48th year The Lincoln Academy has celebrated students’ excellence in leadership and service in Illinois. Each student was presented with a certificate of merit signed by the governor, a Lincoln medallion, a $500 check and a challenge coin of The Lincoln Academy.

“Attending QU, choosing the majors I did, working in admissions and being a part of the mock trial team are all choices that I will never regret or forget in my lifetime,” Heeter said. “My gratitude goes to all of the people who have encouraged me and helped me along the way. I cannot thank them enough for the opportunity and honors they have given me, and that includes the award itself.”