02/22/2024
I am delighted to share with you the resounding success of the Multicultural Entrepreneurial Center's Community Appreciation Day, which took place last Friday, February 16th.🎉
The event was nothing short of an "Explosion of Gratitude," as more than a hundred individuals gathered in one room to celebrate and honor the dedicated members of our community. It was a heartfelt occasion dedicated to expressing our deepest thanks to those who generously contribute their time, talents, and resources to the betterment of our community.
The main lobby of Black Hawk College was transformed into a space where community members and students came together to craft thank-you cards, enjoy delightful snacks, and, most importantly, foster connections within the community. Noteworthy businesses and organizations such as Mercado on Fifth, Renew Moline, and Dress for Success showcased their services, providing an excellent opportunity for students to acquaint themselves with the remarkable work being done in our community.
The Multicultural Entrepreneurial Center also hosted an appreciation award ceremony to honor those who have steadfastly supported our endeavors, including our distinguished speakers, sponsors, and invaluable volunteers. The impact of your contributions, whether in the form of sponsorship or volunteerism, extends far beyond the tangible tokens of appreciation we were able to offer. Your influence on the lives of students, community members, and Black Hawk College is immeasurable and enduring.
In the spirit of appreciation, the event served as a poignant farewell to our esteemed advisor, Loredana Cooper. The M.E.C. students took the opportunity to express their gratitude for Mrs. Cooper's guidance and mentorship, highlighting the profound impact she had on their lives and the institution.
This event underscored the significance of the sacrifices made to uplift one another, affirming that every effort dedicated to building a stronger community is indeed worthwhile.
We extend our sincere thanks to the following individuals and entities who were honored during the event for their outstanding contributions to the Multicultural Entrepreneurial Center:
Community Leaders:
· James Greenwood from Greenwood Law
· Mauricio Diaz from Dress for Success
· Senator Michael Halpin
· David Mitchell from Mitchell Motors
· Maria Ontiveros from Group O and Mercado On Fifth
· Alvaro Macias from Ascentra Credit Union
· Alexandra Ellias from Renew Moline
· Javier Gonzalez State Farm Insurance Agent
· Shawn Holland from Best Of Times Entertainment
Sponsors:
· Alvaro Macias from Ascentra Credit Union
· Greenwood Law
· Dress for Success
· Javier Gonzalez State Farm Agency
· Breakfast Optimist Club- Moline, IL
· Best of Times Entertainment
· Tamales for Hope
Alumni Volunteers:
· Santiago Flores
· Blaise Kinto Alumni
· Kotschipa Dodo
Community Member Volunteers:
· Rebecca Wynes
· Saheli Sheth
· Matthew Carlson
BHC Staff:
· Tom Reagan
· Heather Bjorgan
· Cynthia Louden
· Gina Clemons
· Ewelina Berget
· Samantha Gange
· David Elliston
· Janet DeVilder
· John Meineke
Regrettably, some individuals were unable to attend the event, but their contributions have not gone unnoticed. We express our heartfelt gratitude to:
The list of individuals who were unable to attend, including Christian Jackson, Maria Ramos, Erica Ubeda, Joshua and Delilah Pugsley, Erie Johnson, Maurice Davis, Marjorie Davis, Shari Nolen, Cathrine Dittmer, Brett Carte, Braden Mosley, Obot Udoh, Mayor Sangeetha Rayapati, Cathrine Tran, Mayor Mike Thoms, Ben Herman, Heather Aaronson, Tom Trone from Score, Rina Gainey, K.C. (Chef Keys) Ross, Leo Kaalberg, LaTisha Howlett from Bayside Bistro, Antaeus Simmons, Julie Gelaude, Terra Huyten, Bed Muller, Bill Hampus, Bob Winker, Gary Talor, LaDrina Wilson, Mark Holloway, Janessa Calderon, Andy Olson, Greg Johnson, Jo Ekert, Brennen Schmertmann, Nancy Nolan, Zobeida Laufenberg, Ruth Hounkpe.
Once again, thank you for your unwavering support and commitment to the Multicultural Entrepreneurial Center. Your dedication has left an indelible mark on the success of our students, the well-being of our community, and the legacy of Black Hawk College.
We look forward to the continued collaboration and the positive impact we can create together in the future.
