The Illinois Eastern Community Colleges (IECC) Adult Education Program is proud to announce that two individuals connected to Frontier Community College were recently honored with prestigious statewide awards for their outstanding contributions to adult education and literacy.
Genova Aguilera, an adult learner in IECC’s Adult Literacy program, was named one of ten recipients across Illinois of the 2025 Spotlight on Achievement Award. Originally from Central Mexico, Aguilera joined the program just nine months ago after learning about it through her local library. At the time, she worked as a hostess at Los Tres Caminos in Flora, Illinois, where limited English skills restricted her job responsibilities.
Driven by a desire for personal and professional growth, Aguilera committed to learning English. That dedication has transformed her life. Today, she confidently interacts with customers, takes food orders, and manages cash transactions. Despite a busy schedule that includes full-time work, home renovations, and preparing for the birth of her first child, Aguilera continues to attend tutoring sessions during her breaks and studies independently at home.
Her perseverance and progress earned her statewide recognition at the Spotlight on Achievement and Service Awards Ceremony, held Wednesday, May 21, 2025, at the Illinois State Library in Springfield.
Also honored at the ceremony was Margaret “Peggy” Harris, recipient of the 2025 Spotlight on Service Award. Harris, a retired educator and volunteer tutor through Frontier Community College, has made a lasting impact on the lives of adult learners. Since June 2024, she has worked closely with Aguilera, helping her improve conversational English and workplace confidence. Beyond literacy, Harris also serves as a Grief Share Group facilitator in Louisville, Illinois, exemplifying compassion and service in all she does.
Harris was recognized as one of ten outstanding volunteer tutors statewide for her commitment, reliability, and sincere dedication to adult education.
Secretary of State and State Librarian Alexi Giannoulias presented commemorative plaques to all honorees at the May 21 ceremony, celebrating their accomplishments and contributions to lifelong learning.
For more information about IECC’s Adult Education and Literacy programs, visit www.iecc.edu/adulted.
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