John Wood Community College (JWCC) will honor Larry Fischer with its Pathfinder Award in recognition of his nearly 50 years of service to the College during an award presentation and reception Thursday, Dec. 3, at the Town & Country Inn and Suites in Quincy. The event will run from 5:30 to 8 p.m., with a formal program beginning at 6 p.m.
Established in 2024 to commemorate JWCC’s 50th anniversary, the Pathfinder Award recognizes individuals, businesses and organizations that embody the college’s mission and values and demonstrate the trailblazing spirit of its founders.
Fischer has dedicated much of his career to advancing agricultural education and serving JWCC. He started and led the college’s agricultural program as an instructor and its director for 26 years, followed by serving as vice president for instruction for seven years, and is completing his 16th year as a member of the JWCC Board of Trustees, including three years as chair.
A passionate advocate for agriculture, education and youth, Fischer has demonstrated his commitment through decades of leadership and service to numerous organizations, particularly JWCC and the University of Illinois. Known for his dedication to quality instruction and leadership development, he has positively influenced countless lives while advancing the interests of the agricultural community.
Beyond JWCC, Fischer has served as president of numerous volunteer organizations, including the Illinois 4-H Foundation Board of Directors, the Illinois Association of Community College Agriculture Instructors, the University of Illinois College of Agriculture and College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences alumni associations, and the Southern Illinois University College of Agricultural Sciences Alumni Association.
He also served on the boards of the Community Foundation serving West Central Illinois and Northeast Missouri and Chaddock School, where he served two years as board chair.
“Every student needs to know they have someone in their corner believing in them even when they might not believe in themselves. This is something Larry promoted throughout his career by inspiring students to see the impact their lives can make in the ag industry and wider community,” JWCC President Dr. Aron Potter said. “That is why we are excited to create a fund in his honor to ensure we have quality ag instructors and resources to keep his legacy going.”
The event is open to the public. Rather than purchasing a ticket, guests are encouraged to make a meaningful gift in Fischer’s honor. Funds will establish the Larry Fischer Chair of Agricultural Education with the JWCC Foundation.
The fund will be exclusively utilized to support JWCC’s Agriculture Program, providing resources for faculty, instructional technology, and equipment and materials for agriculture classes and labs.
The event will feature a special video presentation, heavy hors d’oeuvres and cash bar.
To RSVP or donate, contact the JWCC Foundation at foundation@jwcc.edu, 217-641-4105, or visit www.jwccfoundation.org.
Those unable to attend but wishing to honor Fischer’s legacy may donate online or mail gifts to:
JWCC Foundation/Fischer Fund
1301 South 48th Street
Quincy, IL 62305
