RVC-Leaders-Named-to-40-Over-40-Class.php

RVC Leaders Named to Greater Rockford Chamber’s Inaugural 40 Over 40 Class

• Awards
• 06/11/2026

John F. Kennedy once said, “Leadership and learning are indispensable to each other.” With a mission centered on empowering lifelong learners, it is fitting that two Rock Valley College leaders have been named to the Greater Rockford Chamber of Commerce’s inaugural class of 40 Over 40 honorees.

RVC President Dr. Howard Spearman and Trustee Robert “Bob” Trojan earned spots on the Chamber’s distinguished list.

“This group of professionals represents some of the most accomplished and influential leaders shaping the Rockford region,” said Greater Rockford Chamber of Commerce Chief Operating Officer Caitlin Pusateri. “They deserve this recognition and our thanks for their skills, service, and mentorship, which continue to strengthen our community.”

Trustee Trojan has served the Stateline region for decades as a business owner, civic leader, and philanthropist. His commitment to the community remains as strong as ever.

“I am grateful for the many opportunities I have had to serve my community and advocate for Rock Valley College,” said Trojan. “I thank God and my late wife, Norma, for their unwavering support throughout this journey.”

Beyond his service on the Board of Trustees, Trojan is a familiar presence at campus events and activities. Most recently, he served as keynote speaker for the College’s Respiratory Care Pinning Ceremony. The program holds special meaning for Trojan, who established a scholarship in memory of his late wife and in honor of the healthcare professionals who cared for her during her final days.

Trojan is joined in this recognition by Dr. Howard Spearman, Rock Valley College’s eighth president. Since beginning his tenure in September 2020, Spearman has guided the College through significant challenges and opportunities, including the COVID-19 pandemic and the campus recovery efforts that followed the August 2020 tornado.

Throughout his career, Spearman has focused on expanding educational opportunities and improving student success. Under his leadership, the College opened the Advanced Technology Center in Belvidere in 2022 and is preparing to open its Downtown West Campus later this summer. Both locations expand access to higher education and workforce training throughout RVC’s district, which includes all of Winnebago and Boone counties and portions of Ogle, Stephenson, DeKalb, and McHenry counties.

“This recognition reflects the collective work of the entire Rock Valley College community,” said Spearman. “Our students, alumni, faculty, staff, administrators, trustees, and community partners all play a role in our success. I am proud to share this honor with them and grateful to serve a community that continues to invest in education and opportunity.”

In the words of Spearman, we are strong because our community is strong. The 40 honorees represent that strength from a broad cross-section of Rockford’s civic, nonprofit, healthcare, education, government, and private-sector communities.

Spearman, Trojan, and the other members of the inaugural 40 Over 40 class will be recognized at a reception on June 25.