Photo Caption:
JWCC’s Ag Alumni Association inducted three new members of the organization’s Hall of Fame including Matt Bradshaw, Andy Bastert, and Fred and Carole Bradshaw. L/R: Members of the Bradshaw Family: Eric Bradshaw, Jeff Bradshaw, who accepted on behalf of his late father Fred Bradshaw, Carole Bradshaw, Matt Bradshaw, and Hall of Fame inductee Andy Bastert.
The John Wood Community College (JWCC) Ag Alumni Association honored outstanding individuals during a special ceremony last night, inducting them into the JWCC Agriculture Hall of Fame. This year’s inductees—Andy Bastert, Matt Bradshaw, and Fred & Carole Bradshaw—were recognized for their lifelong dedication to JWCC, agricultural education, and their communities.
Andy Bastert, a 1980 graduate of the JWCC Ag Program, has been a steadfast supporter of the program. As a former JWCC Ag Alumni Board member, he played a vital role in strengthening alumni connections and advancing agricultural initiatives. Even after his board tenure ended, he remained actively involved, volunteering at events such as the annual golf outing. In 2020, JWCC recognized his dedication by awarding him the JWCC Distinguished Alumni Award.
Matt Bradshaw, a 1994 graduate of the JWCC Agriculture Program, has significantly contributed to the growth of agricultural education in the region. As Chair of the Orr Corporation Board, he was instrumental in fundraising and overseeing the construction of the $2.5 million Agriculture Sciences Building, home to the Fred Bradshaw Learning Center, named in honor of his father. Matt’s leadership and passion for agriculture have helped shape the future of JWCC’s Ag Program.
Fred and Carole Bradshaw have been deeply committed to education, agriculture, and their community. Fred, a lifelong Griggsville resident, was a founding member of the Orr Research Center Corporation and helped establish a groundbreaking partnership between JWCC and the University of Illinois, strengthening agricultural education and research opportunities in the region. He also served on numerous agricultural and civic boards, including the Illinois Soybean Checkoff Board, National Biodiesel Board, and Pike County Board.
Carole dedicated 22 years to JWCC, serving as a counselor, instructor, and Director of the Pittsfield Center. She was a leader in numerous community organizations, including the Pike County Chamber of Commerce, Pike County Mental Health Board, and JWCC Southeast Center Advisory Board. Together, Fred and Carole’s impact on JWCC and the community continues to inspire future generations.
The JWCC Agriculture Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony, held at the JWCC Agriculture Science Complex, celebrated the contributions of these remarkable individuals and their lasting influence on JWCC and the agricultural community.
For more information about the JWCC Ag Alumni Association or the Hall of Fame, visit jwcc.edu/agriculture or contact Luke Merritt at lukem@illinois.edu.
