ECC alums honored at Founders' Day brunch

Elgin Community College alumni Robert Gilliam and Valerie Spurlock along with Batavia businessman John Kluber were honored during the 11th annual Founders' Day Brunch at Elgin Community College.

The Jan. 25 event, sponsored by the ECC Foundation, drew 242 people and raised $50,750 for ECC student scholarships and instructional programs.

Gilliam of Elgin received the ECC Distinguished Alumni Award, which recognizes the success of graduates who completed a recognized program of instruction at ECC prior to June 30, 2004. Gilliam received his associate of arts and sciences in 1976, eventually earning a bachelor of science degree from the University of Nevada and master of science degree from Northern Illinois University.

In bestowing the honor, the foundation noted Gilliam's 35 years of service to the Elgin community as a senior member of the Elgin City Council and as an advocate for community improvement. A retired educator and administrator with Elgin Area District U-46, Gilliam has often been recognized for his community work and won numerous awards. He also served on the boards of both the Elgin Housing Authority and Provena St. Joseph Hospital.

Valerie Spurlock of Belvidere received the ECC Pacesetter Alumni Award, which recognizes the success of a graduate who completed a recognized program of instruction at ECC after June 30, 2004. She received an associate of applied science degree in 1999 and an associate of liberal studies in 2005, and earned a bachelor's from Columbia College in 2008.

Spurlock works at ECC as a full-time administrative assistant for the health professions department and as a part-time tutor for academic learning and The Write Place. She also teaches noncredit software courses and is currently enrolled in the master's program in organizational leadership at Judson University. Her goal is to become a full-time college instructor.

Kluber of Batavia received the Exceptional Friend of the ECC Foundation Award recognizing individuals, businesses or organizations who exemplify the spirit of giving that propels the foundation and ECC toward a promising tomorrow.

Kluber, vice president and director of mechanical engineering for Kluber, Skahan + Associates, a Batavia-based architectural and engineering firm, served as director and chairman of the ECC Foundation and raised and contributed thousands of dollars and volunteered countless hours of service during his tenure, according to ECC Foundation officials.

Kluber is a state-licensed professional engineer, a member of the National Fire Protection Association and a recipient of the American Society of Heating, Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Engineers Inc. Regional Award and the Illinois Excellence in Engineering Award. In 2001, Kluber was named Outstanding Young Alumnus by Georgia Tech's College of Mechanical Engineering.

For information on giving opportunities, contact the ECC Foundation at (847) 214-7377 or visit www.elgin.edu/eccfoundation.