Dave Eckhardt of Rochelle founded From the Heart, an annual gala fundraiser that raised about $1 million for Rochelle-area nonprofits over 18 years.

Dennis Swinton’s volunteer work has included the Rochelle Kiwanis Golden K Club, the Boy Scouts, the Rochelle Moose Lodge and the Masonic Lodge.

Kevin Zilm has been a member of Rochelle Lions Club for the past 19 years, serving as the club's president for much of that time.

Kevin Zilm has been a member of Rochelle Lions Club for the past 19 years, serving as the club's president for much of that time.

Steve Huber served in the United States National Guard from 1979-2012, including 26 years of active duty. His service included deployments in Iraq and Afghanistan and reaching the rank of brigadier general.

James Patnode of Rochelle served in the United States Marines from 1965-1069. His service included two years in Vietnam.

Rochelle Fire Department Firefighter/Paramedic Jon Plaza served active duty in the United States Air Force as a vehicle mechanic from 2010-2014. After separating from active duty, he joined the Air National Guard and still serves to this day.

Being on sabbatical and having speaking engagements scheduled across Illinois hasn’t kept Spanish teacher Kimberly Radostits from spending time in the halls of Oregon Junior-Senior High School.

2022 Illinois Teacher of the Year Kimberly Radostits offers six tips for her fellow teachers. Radostits is a Spanish teacher at Oregon High School.