Kankakee Community College is announcing the recipient of the John Fulton Distinguished Alumni Award for 2024. This honor recognizes outstanding achievements and contributions of alumni who have demonstrated exceptional leadership, innovation, and impact in their respective fields.

A 2012 KCC graduate, Eric Peterson, CEO and founder of Project Headspace and Timing received the John Fulton Distinguished Alumnus Award on April 18. He has also been nominated by the KCC Foundation for the 2024 Illinois Community College Trustees Association Distinguished Alumni Award.

Peterson has achieved personal and professional achievements, including awards such as Hometown Hero, Nonprofit of the Year, Young Citizen of the Year, and more. As a veteran, Peterson faced personal challenges, including PTSD and substance abuse. Instead of succumbing to despair, he founded Project Headspace and Timing. This 501(c)(3) nonprofit promotes positive mental health practices to U.S. military veterans by working to unify them with their communities, nature, and themselves. The organization’s impactful initiatives, such as the Spartan Shield Veteran Advocacy Program and Troops on Trails, highlight Peterson's commitment to positive engagement and mental health practices for veterans.

Despite facing personal obstacles, including the suicide of a teammate and death of his mother, Peterson remains dedicated to advocating for veterans, emphasizing the importance of mental health awareness and community support. His journey of self-discovery has not only transformed his life but also illuminated the struggles faced by veterans.

If you know a KCC graduate who has achieved success and distinction in their field, performed humanitarian service to benefit society, supported education and community colleges, and who has overcome life’s obstacles, you're asked to please contact the KCC Alumni Relations office and share their story at https://foundation.kcc.edu/alumni/.