Lake Land Honors Casey Non-Traditional Student of the Year Nominees

Featured Photo Caption: At right, Lake Land College President Josh Bullock recognizes Brandon Miller, Casey, as a nominee for the 2025 Lake Land College Non-Traditional Student of the Year award during the College’s annual Non-Traditional Student of the Year ceremony.

On Thursday, Nov. 13, Lake Land College held the Non-traditional Student of the Year banquet, an annual event to celebrate the inspiring achievements of students age 25 and older who are pursuing their dreams at Lake Land College.

During the ceremony, Jasmine Gast, Charleston, was named the 2025 Lake Land College Non-traditional Student of the Year.

Gast was nominated for the honor alongside 10 fellow non-traditional students, all of whom have demonstrated tremendous resilience and strength as they pursue their educational goals. The nominees for 2025 Non-traditional Student of the Year Award were: Abby Eastin, Marshall; Darrius Frazier, Charleston; Sarah Housh, Charleston; Kirstin Lindsey, Effingham; Jennifer May, Charleston; Brandon Miller, Casey; Jaylynn Parker, Effingham; Christa Smith, Montezuma, Ind.; Eric Stanley, Charleston; and James Watkins, Edgewood.

“We are so proud of this special group of students, and it is our honor to recognize them for their outstanding accomplishments,” said Kelly Allee, Director of Marketing and Public Relations. “With their warm smiles, positive attitudes and bright personalities, you’d never guess how much they have overcome to be here. Their dedication is a reminder of the power of education, and their perseverance is an inspiration to us all. Truly, each and every one of them exemplifies what it means to be a Laker.”

Brandon Miller

Brandon Miller is a non-traditional student from Casey. A military veteran, Brandon demonstrates a remarkable work ethic and is always eager to learn new skills as a student in the Building Construction Technology program. He’s the first to jump in to any hands-on activity, and he often serves as a leader in group work to help other students who may be struggling.

Miller was nominated by Building Construction Technology Instructor/Coordinator Kurt Hoene. In the nomination form, Hoene said, “Brandon is a blessing to have in class every day. His work ethic is a great example for the younger students to follow, and the way he communicates with me and other students is such a great blessing to see.”