Roehm-Scheffer Named SIC’s 2025 Outstanding Teacher of the Year
Southeastern Illinois College has announced that Jennifer Roehm-Scheffer has been bestowed with the prestigious Loren P. and Velma Dallas Outstanding Teacher of the Year Award for the 2024-2025 academic year. This honor, awarded by a vote of her peers, recognizes Roehm-Scheffer’s exceptional contributions to education and her commitment to the success of her students.
The Loren P. and Velma Dallas Outstanding Teacher of the Year Award is reserved for individuals who exemplify excellence in teaching, demonstrate dedication to their field, and exhibit a profound impact on the academic and personal development of their students.
Roehm-Scheffer, a Spanish and English instructor at SIC, has served the college for nearly 18 years. Known for her approachable, student-first teaching style, she has been instrumental in creating unique learning opportunities both in the classroom and online. Roehm-Scheffer has taught a wide variety of students — from dual credit high school students to traditional college students — and is highly respected for her ability to connect with learners at every level.
Former student Rachel Lands said Roehm-Scheffer’s influence extends well beyond academics.
“Mrs. Roehm-Scheffer is not just a college teacher to me, she is a lifelong mentor,” said Lands. “She opened my eyes to the intricacies, beauty, and value of learning another language, and I will always be grateful to her.”
In addition to her teaching excellence, Roehm-Scheffer has played a key role in expanding Spanish language instruction in southern Illinois, including developing and teaching courses for Rend Lake College and Shawnee Community College through collaborative agreements with SIC. She has also contributed to numerous student success initiatives and served in leadership roles on campus, including as vice president and president of the Southeastern Illinois College Education Association.
“Education can open doors in a student’s local community or even all around the world,” said Roehm-Scheffer. “If the student knows they are supported and given all of the necessary tools to succeed, that’s exactly what they’ll do.”
SIC President Dr. Karen Weiss praised Roehm-Scheffer’s dedication to her students and the college.
“Jennifer’s passion for teaching and her dedication to her students is truly inspiring,” said Weiss. “She embodies the very spirit of this award — making a difference not just in the classroom, but in the lives and futures of her students.”
The Loren P. and Velma Dallas Outstanding Teacher of the Year Award not only celebrates Roehm-Scheffer’s exceptional achievements but also honors the legacy of Loren and Velma Dallas, whose passion for education and dedication to southern Illinois continue to inspire future generations. Established in 1996 by Lorna Dallas-Brown and the late Ellen Wiggins, daughters of Loren and Velma Dallas, this award recognizes individuals who embody the Dallas family’s commitment to fostering excellence in education.
Each year the Dallas endowment through the SIC Foundation awards $500 to the Outstanding Teacher of the Year.
As the recipient of this esteemed award, Roehm-Scheffer joins a select group of educators who have made a lasting impact on the lives of students and the community. She is also eligible for the 2025 Illinois Community College Trustees Association Outstanding Faculty Member Award.
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