Lincoln Land Community College named Sister M. Gianna Nazar, FSGM, of Springfield its 2015 Outstanding Graduate at the annual Student Recognition Ceremony May 5.

Sister M. Gianna was honored as Outstanding Graduate based on grade point average, leadership, motivation, service to others and ability to overcome obstacles. She graduated May 15 with an associate in applied science degree in radiography.

During her time at LLCC, Sister M. Gianna demonstrated exceptional leadership in her program of study. Active in the Student Radiography Club, she provided mentorship to other students, using her personal time to develop and produce interactive skits to help students learn the course material. She also organized and led study groups and provided tutoring. According to an LLCC media release, her nominator reports that Sister M. Gianna has "overcome obstacles because she dresses differently than her peers. Other health care workers wear colorful scrubs, and she doesn't always fit in. She handles these situations with grace and professionalism." The nominator continued, "Sister Gianna is well-known and respected by her fellow students and others with whom she comes into contact. She puts people at ease and shows care and concern for every individual she encounters."

Sister M. Gianna, of the Sisters of St. Francis of the Martyr St. George, also recently won first place for her paper on Code Stroke at the Illinois State Society of Radiologic Technologists conference in Peoria.