Jonathan Cooper named 2025 Lincoln Laureate
By Sarah Shoaf, Staff Writer
Jonathan Cooper, a veteran and Political Science and History double major at Governors State University (GovState), is the 2025 Lincoln Laureate.
A non-traditional student, Jonathan (pictured left with GovState President Joyce C. Ester) began his GovState journey after a 12-year break from college. His return to education has been marked by his dedication to service on campus, serving in roles such as Veterans Representative for Student Senate, President of National Society of Leadership and Success (NSLS), and President of SALUTE Veterans National Honor Society. Jonathan is also the President and Founder of Pi Sigma Alpha (Alpha Nu Beta), the Political Science National Honor Society.
Beyond the classroom, Jonathan is an active member of his community. He's recently been elected as Trustee for the Village of Hazel Crest, where he currently lives.
In his statement for the Lincoln Academy of Illinois, Jonathan spoke to his own views on leadership, which have been influenced by his experiences serving the country, engaging in classrooms, and performing duties in administrative offices of his town.
“Humility, resilience, and a vision for collective progress have guided me in inspiring others to pursue goals once thought unattainable,” said Jonathan. “Leadership, in my view, means elevating those around you and ensuring that every voice matters.”
Nominator Jessica Specht, Director of the Dual Degree program, noted Jonathan’s commitment to the campus community and compassion for his fellow students.
“Jonathan is fiercely dedicated to his family and university and strives for excellence in all his undertakings,” Specht wrote in her nominating letter. “When students are hesitant about their abilities or ambition, Jonathan inspires and helps them to cross the finish line.”
Dr. Konya Sledge, Director of the Center for Student Engagement and Leadership, has also worked closely with Jonathan and was pleased with his recognition.
“Jonathan is well deserved of this honor," said Dr. Sledge. "He serves on multiple service oriented student organizations, and received the Spirit of Service award at the annual Student Leadership Awards Ceremony sponsored by the Center for Student Engagement and Leadership."
Each fall, the Lincoln Academy of Illinois selects an outstanding senior from each of the four-year-degree-granting institutions of higher learning in the state as student laureate. The laureates are honored for their leadership and service in addition to their overall excellence in both curricular and co-curricular activities. For their outstanding achievements, they are rewarded the Abraham Lincoln Civic Engagement Award, bestowed by the governor.
For Jonathan, receiving this award is an honor, one that he sees as an extension of his belief that leadership isn’t about standing above others, but standing beside them.
“This award is a reminder that service is not a single act but a lifelong promise to lead with integrity, to lift others up, and to keep building bridges between campus, community, and country,” said Jonathan. “I’m deeply proud to represent Governors State University and to carry forward the values of honor, compassion, and civic responsibility that Abraham Lincoln embodied and that the Lincoln Academy continues to celebrate.”
While he wraps up his degrees, preparing to graduate in spring 2026, Jonathan looks forward to continuing his path of public service.
“Whether it’s through elected office, veterans’ advocacy, or shaping policy, I plan to keep serving while building stronger, more inclusive communities and ensuring that leadership always reflects the people it represents.”
Jonathan is also grateful to GovState, where he found a community that welcomed him and gave him the tools to grow, while reminding him why he serves.
“After serving in both the Marine Corps and the Army, Governors State University helped me find my direction again,” said Jonathan. “The transition from military life to college wasn’t simple, but GovState gave me a place where I could still live out my commitment to service, just in a new way.”
Congratulations, Jonathan!