Smita Shah

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18 hours ago

Today's 2019 Student Laureate Spotlight is Jessica Gonzalez from Robert Morris University - Illinois. Jessica aspires to be an emergency medicine doctor.

"It is an honor to be the Student Laureate of the Lincoln Academy of Illinois representing Robert Morris University Illinois. I know for a fact Lincoln’s leadership legacy will be a guide in my commitment to the greater good. My motivation to eventually become an emergency medicine doctor comes from the drive to help others and serve a purpose in my communities. The essence of Lincoln’s leadership legacy will be a guide in directing a civic-minded life of service and commitment to the greater good. It has been instilled in me to always help those who cannot help themselves or that need a helping hand. As humans, we should care for one another, the environment, animals, and the world we live in. The essence of Lincoln’s leadership legacy in itself is an encouragement to continue to live up to this honor. Knowing that many great leaders and philanthropists have been given this honor is an inspiration and I hope to have a positive impact on those around me and the communities I serve." ... See MoreSee Less

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The Lincoln Academy of Illinois

5 days ago

Our current political climate is very divisive, but Quincy University's 2019 Student Laureate - Mary Argana - reminds us how Lincoln welcomed contrasting perspectives and saw the value in civil discourse.

"President Lincoln surrounded himself with his adversaries. He intentionally selected each cabinet member for their contrasting perspective and willingness to argue. Lincoln not only accepted, but embraced the opportunity for others to change his mind. He had the humility to accept criticism, and gave respect to all who challenged his decisions. During his two terms as President, the United States was in a vulnerable state. Lincoln recognized the gravity of every decision he would make during the Civil War. He understood surrounding himself with advisors who merely reflected his own opinions would not save his country.

Through this example, Lincoln demonstrated the essential value of civil discourse. There is an inherent value in allowing one’s ideas to be challenged. As John Stewart Mill said in his composition On Liberty: "The steady habit of correcting and completing his own opinion by collating it with those of others, so far from causing doubt and hesitation in carrying it into practice, is the only stable foundation for a just reliance on it”. President Lincoln exemplified this notion by inviting challenge, rather than rejecting it. He prevented a polarized nation from disintegration. His success was derived from his ability to collaborate with those who opposed his views.

President Lincoln’s legacy is an example to all those who serve in the public sector. Regardless of political affiliation, religion, race, gender; there is value to allowing one's ideas to be challenged. In a polarized society, it is crucial that the United States’ civic leaders embody President Lincoln’s humility and embrace the opportunity to seek truth through another’s eyes." ... See MoreSee Less

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The Lincoln Academy of Illinois

7 days ago

Happy Independence Day, everyone!

"I like to see a man proud of the place in which he lives. I like to see a man live so that his place will be proud of him." - Abraham Lincoln ... See MoreSee Less

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Name	Smita Shah
Office Holder	General Trustee

Smita Shah

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