Marvin Romo recognized as a top student with statewide honor

Marvin Romo '25, a senior biology major with a concentration in physiology, has been named Illinois College's 2024 Lincoln Laureate. Originally from Guadalajara, Mexico, Romo was honored for his academic excellence, leadership, and campus involvement.

Romo has made the most of his time at IC, engaging in hands-on learning and the campus community. He has conducted research with professors across multiple disciplines, studying topics from the development of the human skull to the impact of stress on mental health. He also contributed to "This Week in Microbiology," a podcast exploring health and the microbiome, and his insights will be included in an upcoming book based on the series.

Beyond academics, Romo serves as a resident assistant, where he enjoys mentoring younger students and fostering community. He is also an active member of the Phi Alpha literary society, finding camaraderie and support through the organization.

Faculty have played a significant role in Romo's IC experience, with several serving as mentors, including assistant professor of biology Gwendolyn Knapp and associate professor of biology Miranda Karban.

Upon graduation, Romo plans to gain additional hands-on learning experience working with medical professionals as he prepares to apply to medical school to become an orthopedic surgeon.

Romo's advice to fellow students? "Be active, build connections, and never stop learning." He credits Illinois College with instilling resilience and optimism in him, values he'll carry into the next chapter of his journey.

For more information about the Lincoln Academy of Illinois and past Illinois College Student Laureates, visit thelincolnacademyofillinois.org.