2026 Alumni Achievement Award: Shelby Charles
Shelby Charles began her academic journey at Lake Michigan College in fall 2019, choosing LMC for its strong accounting program and the flexibility to balance coursework with a full-time job while remaining close to family in Eau Claire.
When the shift to online learning during the COVID-19 pandemic threatened to derail her plans, Shelby used the flexibility of remote coursework to increase her work hours while staying enrolled, strengthening her commitment to completing her degree.
Shelby graduated from LMC in May 2022 with an Associate of Applied Science in Accounting and went on to earn a Bachelor of Business Administration in Accounting from Siena Heights University in December 2025, all while working full time. Along the way, she gained professional experience in banking, tax preparation, human resources, and accounting. She now serves as a Staff Accountant at Lounsbury Excavating Inc. in Paw Paw.
A dedicated member of her community, Shelby has participated in St. Joseph’s Chalk the Block festival annually since 2021, earning second place in 2025. Her passion for the arts also includes mural painting and community exhibits, including creating a mural for her church.
Whether through accounting or art, Shelby enjoys making a positive impact in her community, spending time with family, and continually challenging herself by stepping outside her comfort zone and trying new things.
