John C. Roberts Community Service Award
On This Page: This Year's Receipent | Past Winners | John C. Roberts Legacy | Board of Trustees
Kishwaukee College’s John C. Roberts Community Service Award honors individuals who have made an outstanding contribution to the pursuit of excellence in education for the Kishwaukee College district by supporting the College for the benefit of students, businesses and the community at large. Established in 2009, the award recognizes the importance of community members in the success of Kishwaukee College.
Honoring This Year’s Recipient
Recognizing this year’s recipient for their service, leadership, and lasting impact on Kishwaukee College and the community.
Linda Mason — 2025 John C. Roberts Community Service Award Winner
With long-time ties to the area, Linda Mason earned a bachelor’s degree from Northern
Illinois University in 1968 and later cofounded Mason Properties, a property management
company serving DeKalb and Sycamore.
In 1997, when John C. Roberts retired from the Kishwaukee College Board of Trustees, he asked Mason to serve the remainder of his term. Mason served for 26 years on Kish’s Board, serving under four different College presidents and helping guide Kish through multiple transformative eras. Advancements include transitioning to online learning, maintaining a strong financial outlook and major construction projects, including the Conference Center and Student Center. When starting on the Board, she served as the Illinois Community College Trustees Association representative and later served as the Board’s Vice Chair for several years.
Outside of Kish, Mason has a long history of volunteer service in the area. For approximately 25 years, she volunteered for the Kishwaukee Hospital Auxiliary, serving as president for several years while helping fundraise for local health care. Additionally, she served as a board member on the Ben Gordon Center Foundation Board of Directors and the Oak Crest DeKalb Area Retirement Center Board of Trustees for several years. In 2014, Mason was an organizing member of the 100+ Women Who Care DeKalb/Sycamore Area Chapter, which has raised more than $550,000 for DeKalb County charities and organizations. As a donor, she has significantly contributed to the Kishwaukee College Foundation, the KishHealth System and the Northern Illinois University Foundation.
Mason’s dedication to Kishwaukee College and the local community has profoundly impacted local education, health care and more, benefiting past, present, and future generations.
Past Winners
Browse past recipients of the John C. Roberts Community Service Award by decade, highlighting individuals whose service has made a lasting impact on Kishwaukee College and the community.
Linda Mason — 2025
Linda Mason was recognized for 26 years of leadership on the Kishwaukee College Board of Trustees and her lasting community impact. Her service supported institutional growth, financial stability, and major initiatives, alongside decades of volunteerism and philanthropy.
Dr. Bill Nicklas — 2024
Dr. Bill Nicklas was recognized for decades of leadership in local government, education, and economic development. His work strengthened partnerships with Kishwaukee College and supported regional growth, creating a lasting impact across the community.
Yvonne A. Johnson — 2023
Yvonne A. Johnson was recognized for a lifetime of excellence in education and community service. Her work as an educator, advocate for science education, and supporter of Kishwaukee College created lasting impact for students and the community.
Ken Mundy — 2022
Ken Mundy was recognized for a lifetime of service to his community and country. A U.S. Navy veteran and longtime public servant, he supported Kishwaukee College and the Sycamore community through decades of leadership, including serving as city treasurer and mayor.
No Award Due to COVID — 2021
Dr. Norm Jenkins, Sr. and Dr. Diane McNeilly — 2019
Dr. Jenkins and Dr. McNeilly were recognized for their decades of leadership and dedication to Kishwaukee College. As early leaders, they helped shape the College’s foundation, guided its growth, and advanced academic programs.
Bob Pritchard — 2018
Bob Pritchard was recognized for his leadership in public service and advocacy for education. As a state representative, he championed higher education funding and policies that supported students and strengthened communities across Illinois.
Bob Wildenradt — 2017
Bob Wildenradt was recognized for his lifelong commitment to community service. Through decades of leadership across local organizations and foundations, he championed economic development, education, and philanthropy throughout the region.
Richard Ohlinger — 2016
Richard Ohlinger was recognized for his leadership in business and community service. As a banker, civic leader, and Kishwaukee College trustee, he supported local growth, education, and development initiatives across the region.
Bruce Griffith — 2015
Bruce Griffith was recognized for his dedication to education and workforce development. Through his work as an educator and program leader, he guided and mentored students, helping them discover career paths and become engaged community members.
Jerry and Ging Smith — 2014
Jerry and Ging Smith were recognized for decades of leadership and service to Kishwaukee College and the community. Through careers in journalism, education, and philanthropy, they supported institutional growth and numerous local organizations.
Terry and Sherrie Martin — 2013
Terry and Sherrie Martin were recognized for their lifelong dedication to education and community service. Through teaching, volunteerism, and preservation efforts, they supported learning opportunities and enriched the local community.
Micki Chulick — 2012
Micki Chulick was recognized for her leadership in early childhood education and community service. Through her work with 4-C and statewide initiatives, she supported families, expanded access to childcare, and strengthened community resources.
David and Suzanne Juday — 2011
David and Suzanne Juday were recognized for their leadership and advocacy for education. Their service to Kishwaukee College, including board leadership and support of key initiatives, helped strengthen opportunities for future generations.
Joe Bussone — 2010
Joe Bussone was recognized for his lifelong commitment to service and philanthropy. A veteran, business leader, and community advocate, he supported education and local organizations, including establishing scholarships for Kishwaukee College students.
John C. Roberts' Legacy
One of the founders of Kishwaukee College, John C. Roberts valued service and worked tirelessly for both the College and the greater community. For all his efforts, he is the namesake of the College’s community service award.
Born in Marion, Ohio, Roberts attended Dartmouth College and graduated with a bachelor’s degree in economics in 1944. He then joined the U.S. Navy, serving as an officer in the Pacific Theater during World War II. Following his enlistment, Roberts worked for DeKalb Agricultural Association in various locations before settling in DeKalb in 1964.
Roberts joined the Kishwaukee College Board of Trustees in 1971 and would serve on the Board for 26 years before stepping down in 1997. For 25 of those years, Roberts acted as Board Chair. Kishwaukee College grew exponentially during Roberts’ tenure, undergoing numerous construction projects to meet the demands of an increasing student population, including the additions of the gymnasium, greenhouse facilities, Early Childhood Center, technology center and more.
Additionally, Roberts was a member of Westminster Presbyterian Church and served in many leadership roles in the church as it grew in size and outreach to the community. He was instrumental in the development of the Oak Crest DeKalb Area Retirement Center and a member of the Board of Directors for more than 20 years, receiving the Good Samaritan Award from Oak Crest in 2003 and the Illinois Outstanding Trustee Award from Illinois Life Services Network in April 2008.
Roberts inspired the award and was recognized posthumously at the Spring 2009 Commencement Ceremony after passing away in 2008.
College Leadership and Governance
The John C. Roberts Community Service Award reflects the values and leadership of the Kishwaukee College Board of Trustees.
Board of Trustees
Learn more about the individuals who provide oversight, leadership, and strategic direction for Kishwaukee College.
Learn More About the Board of Trustees