Trisha Lohman embodies the essence of a school counselor: a trusted guide, a problem solver, and an advocate for student success. With over 20 years of experience—14 of them as the junior and senior counselor—Trisha has become a pivotal figure in the lives of countless students as they navigate academic challenges, career decisions, and personal growth.

Trisha’s journey to Central began in her hometown of Hillsboro, where her roots shaped her blue-collar work ethic and practical approach to education. Originally earning a bachelor’s degree in psychology, Trisha initially worked as a youth career specialist and teacher’s aide before discovering her passion for school counseling.

“When I started as a teacher’s aide, I realized I wanted to be in a school setting, helping students,” Trisha explains. “I went back to grad school, earned my counseling degree, and landed at Central, where I’ve been ever since.”

That decision has proved transformative—not only for Trisha but for the students and families she serves.

As junior and senior counselor, Trisha’s responsibilities extend far beyond traditional guidance. She oversees state testing, manages the school’s master schedule, handles career and college counseling, and spearheads dual-credit initiatives with Kaskaskia Community College (KC).

Central’s dual-credit program, which now offers 112 credit hours across 35 classes, is one of Trisha’s proudest achievements. “When I started, we had just 15 or 16 dual-credit options,” she says. “Now, students can graduate with a significant head start on their college degrees, saving both time and money.”

The program includes unique opportunities like the CNA program, which pairs students with local healthcare facilities such as St. Joseph’s Hospital, and the KC Now electrical program, where students earn certification and hands-on training while still in high school.

“For students pursuing the trades, these programs are game-changers,” Trisha says. “They graduate with skills that make them immediately employable.”

Trisha’s work also encompasses helping students identify their individual paths—whether that’s a four-year university, the trades, or immediate entry into the workforce.

“I grew up in a family of hard-working, blue-collar professionals, so I understand the value of on-the-job training,” Trisha says. “It’s not about one-size-fits-all—it’s about finding the right fit for each student.”

This individualized approach is reflected in career exploration days, where students can shadow professionals in fields they’re considering. “If a student wants to be a plumber or a carpenter, we help them connect with those opportunities,” Trisha says.

For Trisha, the most rewarding part of her job is witnessing her students’ triumphs. “Seeing a student’s excitement when they get accepted into their dream college or land their first job is the best feeling,” she says.

Trisha recalls moments like hugging a tearful Sophia Kennett after her Stanford acceptance or congratulating Grant Creek on achieving a perfect ACT score. “These are life-changing moments,” she says. “To be part of that journey is incredibly special.”

But her impact extends beyond academic achievements. For students facing personal challenges, Trisha is a steady presence. “Before we had a social worker, I would reach out to students who weren’t attending school and find ways to bring them back,” she says. “Seeing those students graduate is a victory that stays with you.”

Trisha credits much of Central’s success to its sense of community. “The teachers here genuinely care about each other, and that extends to the students,” she says. “When the staff gets along and supports each other, it creates an environment where students feel like family.”

This culture of connection, combined with a shared commitment to excellence, has propelled Central’s students to remarkable heights—from local trade certifications to acceptances at some of the nation’s most prestigious universities.

As Central continues to grow, Trisha remains committed to helping students achieve their goals, whatever they may be. “I always tell my students: You will find your niche in life,” she says. “My job is to help you get there.”

For Trisha Lohman, school counseling is more than a career—it’s a calling. And for the students of Central Community High School, her dedication is a gift that will resonate for generations.