Lena Verkuilen, Administrative Assistant for Teaching and Learning Resources, has been named Staff of the Year at Blackhawk Technical College in recognition of her dedication to student success, her compassionate approach, and her support of adult learners.

Lena joined Blackhawk in 2022, bringing with her more than 20 years of experience in environmental and experiential education across northern Illinois and southern Wisconsin. Her shift to higher education was a natural extension of her passion for helping people learn and grow.

“I really enjoyed working with students who were taking the next steps in their educational journey,” she said.

In her role at Blackhawk, Lena manages the Testing Center and supports the GED/HSED programs, often working closely with students who are overcoming academic anxiety and self-doubt.

“In environmental education, I helped people work through fears—like bugs, water, and being out at night,” she said. “Testing can bring up the same kinds of fears and stress. I like to know each test inside and out so I can help students through the process and reduce their anxiety.”

Lena takes pride in creating a welcoming and encouraging environment. Whether it’s calming nerves before an exam or celebrating the moment a GED student passes their final test, she’s there for every step.

“I get to see our GED students at the start of their journey and again at the end when they’ve grown so much in knowledge and confidence. It’s incredibly rewarding,” she said. “There are so many resources available on campus, and everyone is here to help. The only bad question is the one you don’t ask.”

Originally from Belvidere, Illinois, Lena studied biology and geology at Augustana College in the Quad Cities. She and her husband, Ed, enjoy camping, hiking and gardening together. She also serves on the board of Nature at the Confluence, a nonprofit focused on helping people connect with their natural environment and community. The couple shares their home with two cats, Ebenezer and Otis.