Rock Valley College

11/21/2024 | Press release | Distributed by Public on 11/21/2024 11:45

Theresa “Paulette” Gilbert Receives Community Service Awards

Theresa "Paulette" Gilbert Receives Community Service Awards

  • Staff
  • 11/21/2024

Theresa "Paulette" Gilbert, a distinguished educator and community advocate, recently received two community service awards - the Greater Rockford Chamber's Women in Business Community Hero Award and the Rockford NAACP's Community Service Award along with her husband Eldridge "Skip" Gilbert.

Mrs. Theresa "Paulette" Gilbert with Lori Berkes-Nelson, Executive Director of Rockford Park District Foundation at Greater Rockford Chamber's Women in Business Awards Luncheon.

"I am honored to receive the Women in Business Community Hero Award and thrilled to have learned of this impactful conference," said Mrs Gilbert. "My thanks to the Chamber for the commitment to recognizing the work of women in our community; it is so important. My thanks also to the planning committee for a wonderful event and to the sponsor of the Community Hero Award for their support."

With over 30 years of service at Rock Valley College, Mrs. Gilbert's impact extends far beyond the classroom. As the 2024 RVC Faculty of the Year, she is celebrated for her tireless dedication to her students and her community. A committed mentor, she serves as the advisor to the Black Student Union, where she initiated the Sankofa ceremony-a tradition that has honored 525 African-American graduates over the past 14 years. This ceremony highlights her belief that education empowers individuals to elevate and transform their communities for the greater good.

In addition to her work with students, Mrs. Gilbert contributes to several organizations in the community. Her leadership within these groups underscores her passion for fostering an inclusive and equitable environment on campus and in the community.

An RVC colleague praised her as someone who calls others "to the winning side," emphasizing her resilience and vision for justice. Mrs. Gilbert's lifelong commitment to education, equity, and community advancement demonstrates her as a true community hero, whose efforts continue to inspire and uplift those around her.

In the community, Mrs. Gilbert has had a profound impact and legacy of service as an active member of numerous organizations, including the American Association of University Women, the League of Women Voters of Rockford, the Ethnic Heritage Museum, and Women's March Rockford. She also supports her sorority, Alpha Kappa Alpha, and is a member of Pilgrim Baptist Church. Her involvement across these groups demonstrates her commitment to community improvement and engagement.

Mrs. Gilbert has been recognized with several awards for her outstanding service. In 2021, she was honored with the YWCA Women of Distinction Racial Justice Award. The following year, she became the first recipient of the RVC Distinguished Service to Peace and Justice Award, a testament to her profound impact on the college and the community, leading to the award being named after her. In 2023, she was recognized as a Women Who Lead - The Spirit of Education Honoree, and in 2024, she was selected the Rock Valley College Faculty of the Year.

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