Latrice Nicole Jones named 2024 Lincoln Laureate
By Sarah Shoaf, Staff Writer
Latrice Nicole Jones, a first-generation college student enrolled in Governors State University’s (GovState) Dual Degree Program (DDP), is the 2024 Lincoln Laureate.
Latrice, a Psychology major slated to complete her degree at the end of the fall semester, has professional experience working in multiple office admin positions, like a National Restaurant Associate and an intern office assistant for Congresswoman Robin Kelly.
Currently a Manager of Registration and Records at South Suburban College, Latrice says landing a leadership role was a goal of hers. She also conquered her fear of public speaking and continues to be actively involved in various professional organizations and committees, citing these achievements as a few of many that have shaped her path.
“As a first-generation college graduate, full-time mom, and leader in higher education, my journey has been challenging, but it taught me resilience and perseverance,” said Latrice. “I am proud to say, ‘If I can do it, you can too!’”
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.
Jessica Specht, DDP Director, nominated Latrice for the achievement, noting her desire to help others both in her role as DDP Student Transition Assistant (STA) and as a member of student clubs.
“Latrice is an asset to the office and has established herself as a mentor to other STAs and fellow students,” said Specht. “When participating in one group’s activity, she naturally looks for opportunities to collaborate with other student groups to get more involvement.”
As an active member of Black Student Union, National Society for Leadership and Success, and Tau Sigma Honor Society, Latrice engaged members of each organization in a two-day volunteer activity that she organized for last year’s Hunger and Homelessness Awareness Month.
Together, the event surpassed the goal of packing 400 essential care bags, assembling an additional 600 bags for future needs, making it the largest DDP community service event in the history of the program said Specht.
With accomplishments like this behind her, Latrice is hopeful about what comes next and honored to have received this recognition.
“Being named Governors State University’s 2024 Lincoln Laureate is an incredible honor that reflects GovState's profound impact on my academic and personal growth,” said Latrice. “This is just the beginning of a remarkable journey, and being named a Lincoln Laureate is a wonderful opportunity for me to make GovState and The Lincoln Academy of Illinois proud as I continue my career path.”
Following her completion of her bachelor’s degree this semester, Latrice plans to pursue graduate school in spring 2025.
Congratulations, Latrice!