John A. Logan College Student, Recent Logan Academy Graduate Featured in People Magazine
Published on October 27, 2026
Alicia Schweickert’s journey from a lifetime of medical challenges to a nursing career has drawn national attention. The John A. Logan College student and recent Logan Academy graduate was featured in People magazine, highlighting her determination to overcome obstacles and help others facing similar challenges.
Credit : Alicia Schweickert
Born with complex congenital heart disease, Schweickert has undergone multiple surgeries throughout her life. In 2024, she received a heart and liver transplant, marking a significant milestone in her medical journey.
In August 2025, Schweickert enrolled in Logan Academy at John A. Logan College to begin working toward her General Educational Development (GED) credential. During the program, she demonstrated a strong commitment to her education, rarely missing class and accumulating 231 hours of attendance despite her health challenges.
While preparing for her GED, Schweickert also completed the college’s Healthcare Bridge program and earned a phlebotomy certificate, adding valuable healthcare training to her growing list of accomplishments.
In February 2026, nearly two years after her double-organ transplant, Schweickert passed her final GED test. With that milestone behind her, she set her sights on a new goal: becoming a nurse.
According to Michelle Guy, Manager of Logan Academy, Schweickert inspires her fellow students. “She is just a fantastic person, kind and always so positive. She was very encouraging to the other students in our class and even gave a ride to a student who didn’t have transportation.”
Inspired by the medical professionals who cared for her throughout her life, Schweickert hopes to become a pediatric cardiology nurse, supporting and caring for children facing medical challenges similar to her own.
Schweickert is now enrolled at John A. Logan College, where she is completing prerequisites for the college’s nursing program. She is currently in her second semester of coursework as she works toward turning her personal experiences into a career dedicated to caring for others.
Her path from overcoming significant health challenges to earning her GED and pursuing higher education reflects her perseverance and commitment to building a future in health care. As she works toward becoming a pediatric cardiology nurse, Schweickert hopes to offer young patients and their families the same compassion and support that made a difference in her own life.