Dakota Montavon of DeKalb will represent student interests as the new student trustee on the Kishwaukee College Board of Trustees. Montavon replaced Cris Luna-Trujillo of DeKalb who completed his one-year term. Montavon was seated at the April 14 regular board meeting. His one-year term will run until April 2021. 

“I have met Dakota and am confident that he will follow in Cris’s footsteps by providing well-considered student perspectives to trustees and administrators,” commented Bob Johnson, board chair. The Kish Board of Trustees consists of seven trustees elected by district voters and one student trustee. The Illinois Community College Act provides that each Illinois community college shall elect one student to the Board for a one-year term.

“I just want to be the best advocate for my peers as possible,” said Montavon. “One area of focus is figuring out ways to improve the quality of relationships. Relationships are the foundation on which we build everything else. They are our greatest source of strength, power and health.” Montavon was elected by the Kish student body during the student elections held virtually the week of March 30.

Montavon is a sophomore working on his associate degree. He is involved with the English Honor Society Club, Phi Theta Kappa, National Society of Leadership and Success (NSLS) and the Preforming Arts Club on campus. He also serves as a peer mentor for TRIO student support services. During his term, Montavon wants to boost student involvement, promote a safe and accepting learning environment and serve as a role model on campus. 

Luna-Trujillo completed his tenure as the student trustee this month. During his time in the position, Luna-Trujillo represented the student body, voiced their concerns and reported to the board on their behalf. “I am very happy to have been the speaker for the students and have ensured that we were heard,” Luna-Trujillo stated. 

Luna-Trujillo will complete his two-year degree this semester and plans to transfer to NIU to study special education. He is employed with the student outreach office as a student ambassador. Luna-Trujillo also serves as treasurer of the student government association and is an active member of other organizations and clubs on campus.

“My fellow trustees and I would like to thank Cris for his excellent service to Kishwaukee College,” Johnson added.