Blackburn College Honors Jerseyville’s Ashley DeSherlia For Academic Achievement

JERSEYVILLE - Ashley DeSherlia of Jerseyville has been named to the Blackburn College Dean’s List for the Spring 2026 semester after earning a grade-point average of 3.6 or higher, the college announced. She has also been a leader in Blackburn College's nationally recognized Work Program.

Founded in 1837, Blackburn College in Carlinville, Ill., is one of nine federally recognized Work Colleges and is home to what the school describes as the nation’s only student-managed Work Program. The college said its model combines academics with work experience and professional skill development, with each student contributing to campus operations.

DeSherlia said Blackburn’s work program has played a significant role in her college experience.

“To provide a bit more context on my role here, Blackburn is one of only nine federally recognized work colleges in the United States, and we are unique in being the only institution where the program is entirely student-managed,” DeSherlia said. “For the 2026–2027 academic year, I have the privilege of serving as one of only two student General Managers of the Work Program. In this role, alongside my colleague, Naomi Lansaw, from Greenfield, Ill., we oversee 12 distinct student-led departments.”

“Our responsibilities cover the full operational spectrum of the college, ranging from admissions and administrative duties to essential campus infrastructure like carpentry and food services,” she said. “Students have had a hand in everything; even the buildings were student-built.”

DeSherlia said she learned about Blackburn while searching for affordable higher education options, despite growing up nearby.

“Blackburn is a truly remarkable college where students graduate not only with a degree but with four years of comprehensive, real-world experience and tangible skills that build a foundation for a lifelong career,” DeSherlia said. “Surprisingly, despite growing up just down the road in Jerseyville, I only discovered the college through an online search for affordable higher ed.”

She said serving in a leadership role at the college is meaningful both personally and professionally.

“It’s an honor to represent this institution, hold this leadership role, and make my family proud,” DeSherlia said. “On top of that, if my story and involvement can help raise awareness for Blackburn’s incredible, unique culture and career development opportunities, it would be delightful. I am eager to contribute to that mission in any way I can.”

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