Rockford University Student Named 2025 Lincoln Academy Student Laureate

10/21/2025 1:51 pm

Rockford University proudly congratulates senior Kaden Finnestad on being named a 2025 Student Laureate of the Lincoln Academy of Illinois.

This prestigious honor is awarded to outstanding seniors who "are honored for their leadership and service in the pursuit of the betterment of humanity and for overall excellence in curricular and extracurricular activities," according to the Lincoln Academy.

"Kaden's impact on the Rockford University campus and the local community through volunteering is tremendous. He possesses a strong academic focus, and leadership skills as a Resident Assistant for his floor, as well as being a member of the Rockford University Football Team. Kaden's role modeling, ability to provide out of the classroom educational activities, and providing guidance with an empathetic response for campus referrals and interventions is important for our students' development," said Scott Mitchell, Assistant Dean of Students & Director of Residence Life, who nominated Kaden for the honor.

The Lincoln Academy honored top students from colleges and universities across Illinois during a ceremony held on Oct. 18 in Chicago. Each student laureate received the Abraham Lincoln Civic Engagement Award certificate, a Lincoln medallion, a challenge coin, and a $1,000 check from The Lincoln Academy.

Congratulations to Kaden for this remarkable achievement!

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For further information, please contact Kayla Eddy, Rockford University Digital Content and Web Marketing Coordinator, at [email protected]. Photos can be found here.