Press contact: Angela Try

SPRINGFIELD — Samantha Reif, of Springfield, professor of geology at Lincoln Land Community College, was recently recognized as a recipient of a 2026 NISOD Excellence Award. The honor was awarded at NISOD’s International Conference on Teaching and Leadership Excellence held May 23-26 in Austin, Texas.

The distinction recognizes Reif’s outstanding contributions to Lincoln Land Community College and her unwavering commitment to student success and excellence in teaching.

Reif has been a professor of geology at LLCC since 2007. She teaches in the natural and agricultural sciences department, including classes in astronomy, physical geology and natural disasters. LLCC offers an associate in science degree with a concentration in geology, which prepares students to transfer to a four-year university. Learn more about LLCC programs at the next Campus Visit Day on June 16 from 5-7 p.m., visit www.llcc.edu/campus-visit-day.