Natalie Greene receives SCC Distinguished Alumni Award

Published: 05/21/2013

Greene, 44, of St. Peters, has aspired to become a doctor since a young age. After watching her aunt and uncle provide care to those in need through their own clinic, she knew that one day she wanted to do the same.

After graduating from St. Charles West High School, Greene did not feel that she was smart enough to become a doctor. It was not until Greene was 29 years old that she felt ready to begin college and start working toward her dream.

With her husband, Greene created a plan for her education, and SCC was the first step. “SCC gave me confidence that I was moving in the right direction,” said Greene. “It really prepared me for the rest of my education.”

Greene attributes her leadership skills to the experience she gained at SCC as an active member of the Student Senate. She served as Student Senate president, working closely with students, faculty, administration and the Board of Trustees. Greene was also a member of Phi Theta Kappa, the international honor society of the two-year college, while at SCC.

“I loved being involved,” said Greene. “It was important to me to be a strong voice for the students. It was my way of giving back.”

Students, faculty and staff at SCC took notice of Greene’s leadership on campus.

“I found Natalie to be a capable student leader who affected other students with her enthusiasm,” said Kevin Patton, SCC professor of life science. “Her leadership abilities were inspirational, professional and organized. She provided a superb example for other student leaders on campus.”

In addition to her studies and her leadership roles in student activities on campus, Greene managed to find time to have her first child.

Natalie graduated from SCC in May 2001 with honors and was selected to speak at the commencement ceremony as a representative of her entire class.

After attending SCC, Greene added her second child to the family while obtaining her bachelor’s degree at the University of Missouri–St. Louis. She went on to receive her doctorate at A.T. Still University in Kirksville. She is now finishing her residency at Mercy Hospital, where she provides care to the community while supervising medical interns.

Once Dr. Greene completes her residency at Mercy Hospital, she will begin as medical director and physician for Macoupin County Health Department of Illinois.

Greene received the 2013 Distinguished Alumni Award from Kasey McKee, SCC vice president for college advancement. The Foundation initiated the award in 2006 and solicits nominations from the community.

The St. Charles Community College Foundation, a not-for-profit organization, raises funds to support student scholarships and education programs for the college. For more information on the SCC Foundation and its vision to transform lives and strengthen communities, visit www.stchas.edu/foundation.

St. Charles Community College is a public, comprehensive two-year community college with associate degrees and certificate programs in the arts, business, sciences and career-technical fields. SCC provides workforce training and community-based personal and professional development as well as cultural, recreational and entertainment opportunities. For more information, visit www.stchas.edu.