by Shruti Mungi '19

Karrie Heartlein, director of the Office of Government and Community Relations, has been selected as the 44th recipient of the Thomas B. Herring Community Service Award. The annual award from the Galesburg Chamber of Commerce honors volunteers who serve the community “without recognition or publicity.”

Heartlein serves on the board of directors for the Galesburg Cottage Hospital and the United Way of Knox County, the leadership team for Galesburg on Track/Community Heart & Soul and is a member of the Rotary Club of Galesburg. Heartlein's current and past volunteer activities total more than 11.

“I am especially pleased with Karrie's leadership in the many projects she has devoted countless hours to,” said Knox College President Teresa Amott. “Her leadership inspires us all to serve the community we call home.”

At Knox, Heartlein’s role with the Office of Government and Community Relations seeks to strengthen the connection between the college and the community. She also works closely with KnoxCorps, a program that matches recent Knox graduates and current students with local non-profit organizations.

Heartlein received the award at the Chamber's 40th annual Thanksgiving luncheon on November 19. The previous year’s winner, Kelli Bennewitz, who has served with Heartlein on numerous boards, presented the award. Upon receiving it, Heartlein was met with a standing ovation from an audience of approximately 200 attendees, including members of her family.