JWCC Ag Alumni Association inducts second class into Hall of Fame

QUINCY — The John Wood Community College (JWCC) Ag Alumni Association honored Andy Bastert, Matt Bradshaw, and Fred and Carole Bradshaw by inducting them into the JWCC Agriculture Hall of Fame on Feb. 6 during a ceremony at the JWCC Agriculture Science Complex.

Bastert, a 1980 graduate of the JWCC ag program, has been a steadfast supporter of the program. As a former JWCC Ag Alumni board member, he played a vital role in strengthening alumni connections and advancing agricultural initiatives. Even after his board tenure ended, he remained actively involved, volunteering at events such as the annual golf outing. JWCC recognized his dedication in 2020 by awarding him the JWCC Distinguished Alumni Award.

Matt Bradshaw, a 1994 graduate of the JWCC ag program, has contributed to the growth of agricultural education in the region. As chair of the Orr Corporation Board, he was instrumental in fundraising and overseeing the construction of the $2.5 million agriculture sciences building, home to the Fred Bradshaw Learning Center, named in honor of his father.

Fred and Carole Bradshaw have been deeply committed to education, agriculture and their community. Fred, a lifelong Griggsville resident, was a founding member of the Orr Research Center Corporation and helped establish a groundbreaking partnership between JWCC and the University of Illinois. He served on numerous agricultural and civic boards, including the Illinois Soybean Checkoff Board, National Biodiesel Board and Pike County Board.

Carole dedicated 22 years to JWCC, serving as a counselor, instructor and director of the Pittsfield Center. She was involved with the Pike County Chamber of Commerce, Pike County Mental Health Board and JWCC Southeast Center Advisory Board.

For more information about the JWCC Ag Alumni Association or the Hall of Fame, visit //jwcc.edu/agriculture or contact Luke Merritt at lukem@illinois.edu.