LLCC 2010 Honored Alumna

The amazing story of Lincoln Land alum Michelle Tjelmeland was one of the highlights at the college's commencement ceremonies held May 14, 2010.

Michelle is a successful entrepreneur, founder of a national non-profit organization, accomplished public speaker, recipient of Microsoft Corporation's prestigious "Start Something Amazing Award," and a dedicated wife and mother.  What most people do not realize is that Michelle has accomplished all this while being profoundly deaf.

Michelle began to experience hearing loss while in high school. She went profoundly deaf at 23 while pregnant with her first child. After Ellie was born, Michelle began to suspect that something was wrong with her daughter’s hearing as well.  “Even though nine doctors told me Ellie could hear, I just knew that she was deaf.”  Ellie’s deafness motivated Michelle to seek help for both of them.  Now, they “hear” through the miraculous technology of cochlear implants.

Michelle also holds a bachelor's degree from Eastern Illinois University and a master's degree from the University of Illinois.  LLCC is proud to count Michelle Tjelmeland among its honored alums!