Some teachers make such a strong impression on their students that they are never forgotten.
This fall, Decatur native and University of Illinois at Springfield alumna Cheryl Peck recognized one of her favorite instructors, former English professor Judy Everson, by donating $500,000 to establish a professorship in her honor.
"I was so thrilled and honored," Everson said of the professorship. "I never expected it."
The Judith E. Everson Professorship in English is the university's first from a graduate honoring a former professor. Peck, a former Herald & Review reporter and copy editor, was more than happy to honor a teacher who influenced her so greatly.
"She was one of the most dynamic and energetic teachers I ever had," Peck said of Everson. "She inspired me to study harder than I ever thought I could."
The gift was featured in an December 4, 2011, article in the Decatur Herald & Review.
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