Professor Thom Whalen holds an associate of arts degree from LLCC, a bachelor of arts in studio/art history from Eastern Illinois University, and a master of fine arts degree from the University of Kansas. He joined the LLCC faculty in 2001. He is also a studio artist and freelance graphic designer. He has designed signage, exhibits and promotions for the Smithsonian Institution in Washington, D.C., The Abraham Lincoln Presidential Museum in Springfield, and clients such as Planet Hollywood, Extra TV, Hard Rock Hotel and Las Vegas casinos.