For his dedication and service, Waubonsee Community College has named Richard “Shorty” W. Dickson the 2017 Distinguished Contributor.
Dickson, a retired insurance executive from Bristol, served on the college’s Board of Trustees from 1972 until 1987 and then again from 1989 until the present. In those years he has served as an officer of the board for 38 years, 29 years as Chair and 9 years as Vice Chair. He continues to serve as the vice chair of the board today.
During his tenure, Dickson has helped steer the college from its predominantly rural foundation to one that serves one of Illinois’ largest and most diverse population centers. His tireless dedication has allowed Waubonsee to become an education leader in the 21st century.
Dickson is an active member of the Dickson-Murst Farm Partners, which manages the homestead building that houses the Kendall County offices of the Conservation Foundation. He also serves on the Bristol Kendall Fire Protection District Board.
In addition to his service on boards, Dickson has been instrumental in advancing the education of individual students by providing longstanding financial support through the Anita Dickson Memorial Scholarship. This scholarship awards two annual awards of $500 for tuition, fees, or books.
In 2014, Dickson was recognized by the Illinois Community College Trustee Association with the “40-Year Trustee” designation in recognition of his four decades of service to Waubonsee. He and a colleague from College of Lake County were the first in the state to earn that distinction.
“Mr. Dickson’s commitment and service to Waubonsee and the community for more than 40 years are remarkable. He exemplifies the core values of the college. We thank him for his unmatched service and contribution,” said Dr. Christine Sobek, president of Waubonsee Community College.
The Distinguished Contributor Award is given each year to an individual, a group of individuals, or organizations who have made an outstanding contribution or given exemplary support to Waubonsee Community College. Those nominated have supported the operations of the college in either a personal or professional capacity and have contributed to the growth and expansion of the college’s mission. Nominees for the award are recognized by the college staff, community residents and officials, or college leaders as having made an extraordinary commitment to promote the college and its mission.
