Sauk instilled in me a lifelong love of learning.
Joyce Schamberger graduated from Sauk Valley Community College in 1979 with an Associate in Science degree before continuing her education at Northern Illinois University, where she earned both her bachelor’s and master’s degrees. During her 39-year career in education, Joyce served the Amboy school district as a fifth-grade teacher, Dean of Students, and principal at both Amboy Junior High and Central Elementary School. A former SVCC volleyball and basketball student-athlete, Joyce credits the college with providing a strong educational foundation, lifelong friendships, and the encouragement to pursue her goals. Today, she remains active in the community through local fundraising efforts and by helping operate her family’s business, Long Branch Saloon.
Joyce was awarded SVCC’s 2026 Distinguished Alumni Award.
What made you choose to attend Sauk Valley Community College?
Joyce was unsure about her career path and was able to remain living at home while she attended SVCC. She was able to work two part-time jobs and help her parents on the family farm.
What’s your favorite memory from your time at the college?
Joyce participated in volleyball and basketball.
What was your biggest takeaway from your time here?
Joyce received a quality well-rounded education and was able to meet people throughout the Sauk Valley area. She has maintained lifelong friendships with many people she met at Sauk.
How did your experience at Sauk Valley Community College prepare you for your career or next steps?
Joyce’s coach, Claire Holmberg, mentored her in the classroom and on the court. She helped build a mindset to become successful. She was able to have the courage to continue her education at Northern Illinois University to complete her Bachelor’s degree and become a teacher.
What path did you take after SVCC?
After graduating from SVCC in 1979 with an Associate in Science degree. She attended NIU and completed both her Bachelors and Masters degrees. She taught at Amboy schools, educating fifth graders for 20 years. She became the Dean of Students and eventually the Principal of Amboy Junior High and then Central Elementary School. Joyce completed 39 years in education when she retired.
Since retiring, Joyce enjoys fundraising for many area groups and helping with the day-to-day operations at her family’s business, the Long Branch Saloon in Amboy.
What would you tell someone who’s considering attending Sauk Valley Community College?
SVCC is affordable, don’t go into debt, be financially responsible.
Complete this sentence: “Attending Sauk Valley Community College was…”
An excellent education and the opportunity laid the foundation for a career that I am very proud of. My education instilled in me a love for lifelong learning.
What does Sauk Valley Community College mean to you in one word?
Community
If you could give advice to current students, what would it be?
Use SVCC as a springboard to find a career that doesn’t feel like work. Surround yourself with people who lift you up and make you a better person.
