FREEPORT, IL — Thursday, November 13, 2025 at 1:30 p.m. the Women+ in Science Club at Highland Community College will host guest speaker Dr. Marie Heimerdinger for an engaging discussion about following a career in medicine while remaining deeply connected to community and giving back across Illinois.
A Pearl City native and Highland alum, Dr. Heimerdinger’s path began on a small farm in Loran, Illinois, during a time when career options for women were limited. She went on to earn her Associate of Science degree from Highland Community College in 1977, a Bachelor of Arts in Biology from Augustana College, and a Doctor of Medicine from the University of Illinois College of Medicine in 1983.
Her medical career spanned four decades, including private practice at the Freeport Medical Arts Clinic, work with Freeport Health Network, and nearly 20 years of service with the Veterans Administration in Madison, Wisconsin, before retiring in 2023.
Beyond her medical career, Dr. Heimerdinger has dedicated more than 40 years to serving the Freeport community through volunteerism and civic leadership—supporting public health initiatives, community clinics, education, youth programs, and the local arts.
She describes her life’s work as an act of gratitude: “I am passionate about paying life’s gifts back—or paying it forward to the next generation. It is by giving back that we develop and realize gratitude.”
Now enjoying retirement between her homes in Missouri and Florida, Dr. Heimerdinger continues to volunteer and travel while remaining dedicated to community wellness.
Join Highland’s Women in Science+ and Earth Clubs as Dr. Heimerdinger shares her story and lessons from a lifetime of service, science, and stewardship.
Event Details:
Woman+ In Science with Dr. Marie Heimerdinger
Date: November 13, 2025 at 1:30 P.M.
Location: Natural Science Center (N-107) A virtual attendance option is available.
Please call (815) 599-3578 for the Zoom link.