Renee Evrard’s Journey: From Putting Others First to Finding Her Purpose
Published on February 17, 2026
For Renee Evrard, returning to John A. Logan College wasn’t just about earning a degree. It was about choosing herself and building a future she once thought was out of reach.
After graduating from Marion High School, Renee began her college journey at JALC, but life took her in another direction. She spent several years traveling, living out of state, and navigating a difficult chapter where she often put everyone else’s needs ahead of her own. Eventually, she made the courageous decision to come home, reconnect with her family, and return to Logan to finish what she started.
That choice changed her life.
Now enrolled in the Criminal Justice program, Renee is preparing to graduate in May 2026 and pursue her dream of becoming a police officer in Carbondale, hopefully serving alongside her twin sister, who inspired her to believe this career path was possible.
“For a long time, law enforcement felt like a dream instead of something I could actually achieve,” Renee said. “Seeing my sister become an officer showed me I could do it too.”
Renee shared that for years she focused on taking care of others while neglecting herself. A turning point came when her sister told her, “If you don’t like your life, change it.” Those words pushed Renee to leave a toxic situation, return to school, and finally prioritize her own goals.
“What motivates me on hard days is remembering how far I’ve come,” she said. “I’m driven by the desire to build a better life for myself and achieve the career I’ve always dreamed of.”
Her return to JALC marked a new chapter. Renee credits the supportive campus environment, caring professors, Perkins advisors, the Tutoring Lab, and hands-on Career and Technical Education training for helping her rebuild confidence and develop real-world skills.
“What I enjoy most about my classes and hands-on training is being able to apply what I’m learning to real-life situations,” Renee shared. “It’s helped me build practical skills and confidence, and my professors genuinely care about our success.”
As a hands-on learner, Renee found that CTE coursework allowed her to retain information and prepare for the realities of law enforcement. She also leaned on tutoring and academic support services, especially when navigating coursework with a learning disability.
“There’s always extra help here,” she said. “As long as you’re willing to reach out and accept it, you’ll be okay.”
Through the Criminal Justice Club and close connections with faculty, Renee found encouragement during moments of self-doubt. She made the decision not just to complete her credits, but to finish her degree.
“There was a time I never thought I would graduate college,” she shared. “Now I’m close to achieving that goal, and seeing my progress has been incredibly rewarding.”
Today, Renee is proud of how far she has come. Once focused on everyone else, she now understands the importance of caring for herself, and that growth has shaped the kind of officer she hopes to become.
“I believe law enforcement needs people who genuinely want to help others and make a positive impact,” Renee said. “My goal is to be the kind of officer who helps people through hard times, because I know what that feels like.”
Her advice to others considering JALC or a CTE program is simple: “Take advantage of the supportive environment and opportunities here. The professors and staff truly care, and getting involved can make a meaningful difference,” she added.
Renee’s journey is a powerful reminder that when students are given the tools, support, and hands-on experience they need, they don’t just earn degrees. They discover their strength, find their purpose, and prepare to serve others in meaningful ways.