OGLESBY – Jim Anderson is glad he took his wife Julie’s advice seven years ago and answered an ad for a security information specialist at Illinois Valley Community College.

On his last day as a full-time employee on Dec. 17, in front of a throng of well-wishing IVCC staff, Anderson said, “My wife told me I need to shine my light so I tried to do that.”

Mission accomplished. The former insurance salesman from rural La Moille became a welcoming presence at the main entrance and befriended employees and students alike.

“I cannot imagine coming in every morning and not seeing your smiling face and not saying, ‘Good morning, Jim!’” said director of purchasing Michelle Carboni.

Anderson, known to some students as “Uncle Jim,” read a card he received recently from student Clarissa Hernandez of Mendota.

Hernandez wrote: “With Thanksgiving coming up, I can’t help but think of how lucky I am to have you as part of my life. Also, your Buffalo Wild Wings gift cards come in handy when we’re starving. Thank you for being one of the most kind-hearted people I’ve ever met.”

Anderson cherished the card, saying, “To me, that’s what it’s all about at IVCC. It’s about doing what we can for students. Whether it’s friendship or maybe feeding them occasionally – that’s what it’s all about.

“I really enjoyed it here and I’m going to miss you all so much,” he told the assembled staff. “Keep on doing what you’re doing – you’re good at it.”