FREEPORT — Highland Community College is proud to announce that Tamisha Bonvillain, FNP-BC, IBCLC, will deliver the keynote address at its 62nd Annual Commencement Ceremony on Saturday, May 17 at 10 a.m. on the Highland campus. 

One of Highland’s “Distinguished Alumni” and a beloved local healthcare provider, Bonvillain brings more than two decades of service, inspiration, and advocacy to this special occasion — made even more special as her son, Daeshon Verner, will graduate as part of Highland’s Class of 2025.

Bonvillain, a Board-Certified Family Nurse Practitioner, has dedicated over 22 years to serving the Freeport community. Her passion for health and wellness extends beyond clinical care — she’s a familiar face in local initiatives such as FHN’s “Walk with a Doc” program, which promotes physical activity and community health education through group walks led by healthcare professionals.

“She has so many outstanding qualities, including that she is inspired to help those around her learn how to better their health and live life safely and comfortably,” said Chrislyn Senneff, DNP, RN, Highland Nursing Instructor. 

Bonvillain has been a guest speaker for Highland’s Women in Science Club and a steadfast supporter of Highland’s Nursing Department, where she has mentored student nurses during clinical rotations. In recognition of her professional excellence and contributions to the college, she was named one of just five recipients of Highland Community College Foundation’s Distinguished Alumni Award in Fall 2024 — a distinction held by fewer than 200 of the nearly 18,500 students who have earned degrees and certificates at Highland.

“Community college has been a bridge between my dreams and my reality,” said Bonvillain. “All while being affordable and flexible.”

Adding to the emotion and significance of the day, Bonvillain will deliver her address at the very ceremony where her son, Daeshon Verner, will cross the stage. Verner, who served as Highland’s Student Trustee, plans to continue his education at Loras College, majoring in Biochemistry before going to medical school.

“My mom raised me and my brothers as a single parent while becoming a nurse practitioner. This showed me anything’s possible through hard work! Now, I’m following in her footsteps in the medical field to become a trauma surgeon,” said Verner.

As Bonvillain prepares her speech for the May 17 ceremony, she does so with the confidence that comes from experience on a big stage. A Chicago Bears superfan, she recently took the national stage during the 2025 NFL Draft in Green Bay. Selected to announce the 233rd overall pick, she proudly proclaimed the Bears’ newest running back, Kyle Monangai from Rutgers University, in front of a crowd of over half a million fans.

Highland Community College invites the community to hear from Tamisha Bonvillain and join in celebrating the achievements of its graduates on May 17.