Category: BHC Blog

For half a year, Emmanuel Gutierrez of Moline spent roughly 24 hours a week doing research in the chemistry lab at the Quad-Cities Campus.

Since 1987, Professor Maria “Conchita” Lucas-Murillo has been part of the Black Hawk College team. Although she primarily teaches Spanish, she has also taught French and Italian and is fluent in German and English.

Behind every clean classroom and manicured campus is a dedicated team working hard behind the scenes. To celebrate Labor Day, we talked to a couple of staff members whose daily efforts keep Black Hawk College running smoothly. We thank and celebrate our hardworking BHC team.

Pride Alliance first entered Black Hawk College’s (BHC) Quad-Cities (QC) Campus in 2023. For its members, the group has become a space where students can express themselves through identity and shared interests.

Nathanael Hayford has become a very successful juggler. As a BHC student, he learned how to juggle a full load of classes, an apprenticeship and student government activities.

Ablanvi “Cali” Lodonou’s academic journey took her across the ocean to another continent. A native of Togo, she began her college career in the United States in her 50s.

After serving four years in the United States Marine Corps, Thomas Servantes Mayo enrolled at Black Hawk College to continue his path toward law enforcement. With support from faculty and hands-on internship experience, he built confidence, gained practical skills and prepared for the next chapter of his career.

Ryker O’Neil chose Black Hawk College for its affordability and convenience, but his time on campus became a turning point. With support from faculty and hands-on experience in art and media, he is now preparing to transfer to the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign and pursue a career in the creative field.

Law Ger Htay found confidence and direction through Black Hawk College’s music program. With support from faculty and campus involvement, he overcame challenges as a first-generation student and discovered a passion for teaching, preparing to continue his education and music journey after graduation.

Ruby Monsma turned a high school kennel job into a career in veterinary medicine through Black Hawk College’s Veterinary Technology program. With hands-on training, faculty support and real-world internships, she built the skills and confidence to succeed and now works in a clinical setting after graduation.