Joliet Junior College Employee Receives Award from Joliet Pride Network

Joliet Junior College (JJC) is excited to share that Connor Herrington, JJC student activities specialist, has received the Charlie Palmer Community Recognition Award from Joliet Pride Network (JPN). Herrington was recognized at Joliet Pride Fest.

"When I was called to be informed about the award, I was absolutely shocked and honored," Herrington said. "I never set out on the track for recognition in the efforts and events I host but was incredibly grateful to be seen by such an amazing organization."

The award was created in 2021 to recognize individuals, businesses and organizations who embody JPN's mission statement. In 2022, the award was renamed in honor of Charlie Palmer, a late advocate for the LGBTQ+ community who worked for the Will County Health Department. Anonymous nominations are submitted to JPN annually. Then JPN's committee selects a winner. Herrington was one of 18 nominees this year.

"One of the major efforts that I believe contributed to me receiving the award is the World AIDS Day Drag Show hosted in December," Herrington shared. "This event brings together entertainment, education and advocacy in honor of World AIDS Day. Featuring outstanding performances from local drag artists, the show creates an incredibly fun and vibrant atmosphere while raising awareness for the AIDS movement. All proceeds from the event go directly toward supporting HIV/AIDS services and prevention."

In addition, Herrington provides support at JJC through HIV testing and blood drives. JJC's Office of Student Activities (OSA) regularly provides HIV testing at Main Campus, Romeoville Campus and City Center through the Will County Health Department. OSA also hosts blood drives with the American Red Cross and Versiti Blood Center of Illinois throughout the fall and spring semesters on Main Campus, Romeoville Campus and City Center.

"Connor is well-deserving of this award," said Amy Kuspa Sims, JJC's director of student activities. "Through his work, he amplifies the JJC core values and strategic goals of valuing diversity and cultivating belonging, in addition to JJC's mission of strengthening communities. Connor has a remarkable talent for bringing people together through creative activities. He collaborates with both campus and community partners to bring ideas to life. I am proud to have him as a member of OSA."

JJC is proud to partner with Joliet Pride Network, regularly appearing at their annual Joliet Pride Fest and collaborating with them for OSA's World AIDS Day Drag Show, with this year's show scheduled for Thursday, Dec. 4. JJC and JPN's shared values reflect the College's commitment to serving and including the community and our students.

"When individuals feel seen, respected and safe, they are more likely to succeed and contribute meaningfully," Herrington said. "When students experience inclusive spaces and acceptance here, they not only gain a sense of belonging, but they also learn how to bring those values into their own workplaces, families and communities. Creating brave spaces and affirming environments on campus is a powerful way to show students that who they are matters and that their voices and contributions are valued."