CLC Connects Magazine 2021

NON-PROFIT ORGANIZATION US POSTAGE

JUNE 2021

PAID

19351 W. Washington St., Grayslake, IL 60030-1198

GRAYSLAKE, IL PERMIT NO. 53

CLC Connects is published biannually by the Public Relations and Marketing department. To subscribe, unsubscribe or update an address, email PR@clcillinois.edu or call (847) 543-2094.

POSTMASTER: Send change of address to CLC Connects, College of Lake County 19351 West Washington Street, Grayslake, IL 60030-1198

Volume 1, Issue 1 June 2021

Board of Trustees Amanda D. Howland, J.D. Chair Julie B. Shroka, M.A. Vice Chair

After a combined 71 years of experience governing College of Lake County while serving on the Board of Trustees, Richard A. Anderson and Dr. William M. Griffin received trustee emeritus status in April 2021. They join other trustee emeriti, Patricia Jones and Barbara D. Oilschlager. The Board also welcomed three newly elected members: Gerri Songer, Robert J. Tomei, Jr. and Paul G. Virgilio.

CLC CONNECTS

Torrie Mark Newsome, J.D. Secretary Gerri Songer, M.A. Matthew J. Stanton, J.D. Robert J. Tomei, Jr., J.D. Paul G. Virgilio, B.S., S.E., P.E. Daniel Blaine Student Trustee Lori Suddick, Ed.D. President

College of Lake County’s strategic plan is built on the foundation of a student-centered design framework focused on creating an ideal and equitable student experience for everyone.

4

Page

table of contents 02 Message from CLC President Dr. Lori Suddick

Access and Success for Students 03 Scholarships for North Chicago Graduates 04 Redesigning the Student Journey 08 Tech Makes Virtual Learning Possible

Equity and Inclusion 1 0 Celebrating our Diversity 12

Surviving the Pandemic and Beyond

Teaching and Learning Excellence 14

Focus on Faculty

Community and Workforce Partnerships 1 6

Advanced Technology Center Coming Soon

1 8

Apprenticeships: A Pipeline to Prosperity

Strategic Use of Resources COVER: Victoria Thoman served as an exemplary College of Lake County student trustee this past academic year. She graduated from the college

21

Transforming our Lakeshore Campus

24 Closing the Opportunity Gap

in May and is transferring to University of Illinois, Urbana-Champaign to study social work.

28 Legacy of Lancers

JUNE 2021 01

table of contents 02 Message from CLC President Dr. Lori Suddick

Access and Success for Students 03 Scholarships for North Chicago Graduates 04 Redesigning the Student Journey 08 Tech Makes Virtual Learning Possible

Equity and Inclusion 1 0 Celebrating our Diversity 12

Surviving the Pandemic and Beyond

Teaching and Learning Excellence 14

Focus on Faculty

Community and Workforce Partnerships 1 6

Advanced Technology Center Coming Soon

1 8

Apprenticeships: A Pipeline to Prosperity

Strategic Use of Resources COVER: Victoria Thoman served as an exemplary College of Lake County student trustee this past academic year. She graduated from the college

21

Transforming our Lakeshore Campus

24 Closing the Opportunity Gap

in May and is transferring to University of Illinois, Urbana-Champaign to study social work.

28 Legacy of Lancers

JUNE 2021 01

Access and Success for Students

Message from CLC President Dr. Lori Suddick

Scholarships for North Chicago graduates pay for more than tuition

College of Lake County aspires to be a leader in providing innovative education and workforce solutions.

At CLC, we believe every student can succeed in the right environment with the right supports. We are ensuring holistic supports are available to help students succeed in and out of the classroom. After all, starting college is not the goal— finishing is!

Over the past year, we prioritized several key initiatives of the 2024 Strategic Plan to support improved outcomes for students. Efforts included a redesign of the onboarding and first-year experience, to ensure every student has the college-going knowledge to successfully navigate their first semester, and implementation of affordability initiatives, to reduce the time and cost needed to complete a degree. These initiatives benefit students in numerous ways, including an average annual savings of $1.5 million in textbooks and learning materials, increased access to emergency funds, more laptops and hotspots loaned at no cost and a freeze on tuition and fees for academic year 2021-2022.

Every CLC employee is focused on creating an environment where students feel supported, challenged and empowered to achieve their academic, personal and

Inaugural Warhawk Lancer Scholars receive support for successful first year at CLC

career goals so they can either transfer to the university of their choice or begin a rewarding, family-sustaining career.

In May, nearly 3,000 students completed their credential at CLC. Earning a degree during a pandemic took resilience and unwavering commitment.

These graduates learned in new ways, managed change and adapted to the moment. Their pandemic-related skills are assets as they embark on the next stage of their life journey.

CLC is adapting and changing as well. Beyond the student success efforts of the 2024 Strategic Plan, the college is leveraging collaborative partnerships with community organizations, businesses from every sector and local government agencies to expand programming, resources and opportunities across the diverse communities of Lake County.

Like many high school students, North Chicago Community High

“We know that our students, many who are first-generation college

School graduate Cynric Lance Miaco knew college was the next step

students, need more than free tuition and a laptop, so these scholars

but didn’t know how he was going to afford it.

also receive additional stipends to pay for transportation and other living expenses, allowing them to focus more of their attention on coursework,”

Miaco was among the first graduates of NCCHS Class of 2020 selected

said Price. “Combined with College of Lake County’s academic and

for the Warhawk Lancer Scholars last year. His education at College

career coaching, our students have a greater chance at confronting

of Lake County is paid for and he received a stipend to help pay for

barriers to success and achieving their goals.”

additional course materials and living expenses. Funded by generous donors of the North Chicago Public Education Fund, these scholarships

This program enables each graduate to write their own story of success

made the dream of free college a reality for six outstanding young people.

by providing the support necessary for each student to be successful in college. As students complete their first year at CLC, the college looks

“With this scholarship, I was able to be a full-time student without having to work,” said Miaco. “This allows me to focus more on my studies and not think much about finances.” He is studying nursing to get a transfer degree and attend Loyola University.

I hope you enjoy this first issue of CLC Connects. The stories highlight some of the amazing contributions of staff, faculty and students, as well as community

Announced in January 2020, North Chicago School District 187

and workforce partners, working together to move Lake County forward.

Superintendent John Price embraced the initiative to remove cost as the barrier to a higher education. This innovative partnership with CLC is a last dollar scholarship, paying for any remaining balance after a student’s financial aid is applied to their bill. It includes tuition, fees and course materials.

02

CLC CONNECTS

forward to welcoming more Warhawk Lancer Scholars.

Lancer Summer Start Program Starting this summer, new students can begin working on their College Success Seminar and pre-credit requirements for math and English before the fall semester begins – for free. Tuition, fees and course materials are covered 100 percent so students can earn college credits sooner, progressing to degree completion more quickly. www.clcillinois.edu/summerstart

JUNE 2021 03

Access and Success for Students

Message from CLC President Dr. Lori Suddick

Scholarships for North Chicago graduates pay for more than tuition

College of Lake County aspires to be a leader in providing innovative education and workforce solutions.

At CLC, we believe every student can succeed in the right environment with the right supports. We are ensuring holistic supports are available to help students succeed in and out of the classroom. After all, starting college is not the goal— finishing is!

Over the past year, we prioritized several key initiatives of the 2024 Strategic Plan to support improved outcomes for students. Efforts included a redesign of the onboarding and first-year experience, to ensure every student has the college-going knowledge to successfully navigate their first semester, and implementation of affordability initiatives, to reduce the time and cost needed to complete a degree. These initiatives benefit students in numerous ways, including an average annual savings of $1.5 million in textbooks and learning materials, increased access to emergency funds, more laptops and hotspots loaned at no cost and a freeze on tuition and fees for academic year 2021-2022.

Every CLC employee is focused on creating an environment where students feel supported, challenged and empowered to achieve their academic, personal and

Inaugural Warhawk Lancer Scholars receive support for successful first year at CLC

career goals so they can either transfer to the university of their choice or begin a rewarding, family-sustaining career.

In May, nearly 3,000 students completed their credential at CLC. Earning a degree during a pandemic took resilience and unwavering commitment.

These graduates learned in new ways, managed change and adapted to the moment. Their pandemic-related skills are assets as they embark on the next stage of their life journey.

CLC is adapting and changing as well. Beyond the student success efforts of the 2024 Strategic Plan, the college is leveraging collaborative partnerships with community organizations, businesses from every sector and local government agencies to expand programming, resources and opportunities across the diverse communities of Lake County.

Like many high school students, North Chicago Community High

“We know that our students, many who are first-generation college

School graduate Cynric Lance Miaco knew college was the next step

students, need more than free tuition and a laptop, so these scholars

but didn’t know how he was going to afford it.

also receive additional stipends to pay for transportation and other living expenses, allowing them to focus more of their attention on coursework,”

Miaco was among the first graduates of NCCHS Class of 2020 selected

said Price. “Combined with College of Lake County’s academic and

for the Warhawk Lancer Scholars last year. His education at College

career coaching, our students have a greater chance at confronting

of Lake County is paid for and he received a stipend to help pay for

barriers to success and achieving their goals.”

additional course materials and living expenses. Funded by generous donors of the North Chicago Public Education Fund, these scholarships

This program enables each graduate to write their own story of success

made the dream of free college a reality for six outstanding young people.

by providing the support necessary for each student to be successful in college. As students complete their first year at CLC, the college looks

“With this scholarship, I was able to be a full-time student without having to work,” said Miaco. “This allows me to focus more on my studies and not think much about finances.” He is studying nursing to get a transfer degree and attend Loyola University.

I hope you enjoy this first issue of CLC Connects. The stories highlight some of the amazing contributions of staff, faculty and students, as well as community

Announced in January 2020, North Chicago School District 187

and workforce partners, working together to move Lake County forward.

Superintendent John Price embraced the initiative to remove cost as the barrier to a higher education. This innovative partnership with CLC is a last dollar scholarship, paying for any remaining balance after a student’s financial aid is applied to their bill. It includes tuition, fees and course materials.

02

CLC CONNECTS

forward to welcoming more Warhawk Lancer Scholars.

Lancer Summer Start Program Starting this summer, new students can begin working on their College Success Seminar and pre-credit requirements for math and English before the fall semester begins – for free. Tuition, fees and course materials are covered 100 percent so students can earn college credits sooner, progressing to degree completion more quickly. www.clcillinois.edu/summerstart

JUNE 2021 03

Access and Success for Students

“Starting college can be a challenging experience without the appropriate

the positive impact at the high school level, even given the pandemic

support in place,” said Director of Student Recruitment and Onboarding

induced fluctuations at areas schools.

Dr. Sharon Sanders-Funnye (pictured left). She is dedicated to creating a legacy of lifelong learners. “CLC has been hard at work instituting

“Students benefit from getting the information right from the source.

inclusive strategies to help all new students create a personalized success

I can go into the classroom and all the students know who I am,” said

plan that builds confidence and gets them started on the right path toward

Rodriguez. “It’s been such a pleasure to connect on a very personal level

a college degree or certificate.”

and really understand from their viewpoint why they’re going into a particular field of interest. Of most of the students I’ve connected

“

We want to serve the students, meet their needs and break down barriers, so they can be successful.

”

with, many are really interested in starting at CLC and transferring to a four-year college or university.”

Before the college and career navigators came on board, the college operated in a more traditional manner with recruiters seeking out prospective students who then handed them off to advisors. Previously a college recruiter, Sarah Nyquist is now a navigator devoted to adult learners and transfer students.

Additionally, it’s natural for new students to have many questions.

“We need to answer them with the student in mind first, then ensure

“It’s really exciting, not just for the students, but for us as the first semester

that each student has a personalized success plan in place,”

advising team,” said Nyquist. Navigators map out a personalized success

said Sanders-Funnye.

plan for all students to help guide them during their first semester.

“Everyone’s had an overwhelmingly positive response to the program and

Starting in fall 2020, all students have one point of contact from the

the work we can do to serve our students, and really be able to serve them

moment they inquire about attending CLC. While there are many teams

in a very individual capacity.”

working behind the onboarding scene, prospective students don’t need a long list of contacts to answer questions. Students work with a reliable,

“This welcoming relationship building fosters a sense of belonging,” said Sanders-Funnye, who leads the team of College and Career Navigators. These strategic staff members become coaches and mentors who guide new students at the beginning of their college path.

The navigators assist new students with learning about CLC, career

College of Lake County’s strategic plan is built on the foundation of a student-centered design

exploration, selecting a field of interest and program of study, first

framework focused on creating an ideal and equitable student experience for everyone. This

semester course selection, academic and financial planning and

integrated seamless experience for every student begins with the first point of contact and continues

transitioning into college life. What’s more, CLC has partnered with

through the student’s awareness and college-knowledge, planning for success, experiential learning,

several area high schools to embed a staff member at the school, giving

academic progress, timely completion and transition to the workforce or university.

unprecedented access to students exploring what lies beyond senior year.

Informed by best practices at community colleges across the country and a national student-

“I graduated from Waukegan High School and I didn’t have a navigator.

focused organization called Achieving the Dream, purposeful changes are being made to the CLC

There wasn’t a guide person,” said Carolina Rodriguez who is an

student experience from the very beginning, so students can progress quickly, saving their most

embedded College and Career Navigator at Wauconda High School.

valuable resources of time and money.

“I look back and wonder why no one told me about College of Lake

STUDENT SUCCESS /’st(y)oodnt/ s k’ses/ (noun)

e

Redesigning the student journey: Navigating a good start

friendly navigator to determine exactly what they need to get started.

Achieving educational attainment for every student by providing personalized, culturally relevant student learning experiences, grounded in equitable practice in an inclusive student-ready environment.

County. Why didn’t anyone tell me I could’ve saved money, that there

Linking new students to the college Whether they’re entering as a high school graduate or adult learner, all new students will get the help they need navigating the start of college.

04

CLC CONNECTS

were all these scholarships available? My role is to help students in high school who are like I was when I was a high school student.”

Rodriguez is among nearly a dozen navigators who are laying the program’s foundation in its first year. Rodriguez is already seeing

JUNE 2021 05

Access and Success for Students

“Starting college can be a challenging experience without the appropriate

the positive impact at the high school level, even given the pandemic

support in place,” said Director of Student Recruitment and Onboarding

induced fluctuations at areas schools.

Dr. Sharon Sanders-Funnye (pictured left). She is dedicated to creating a legacy of lifelong learners. “CLC has been hard at work instituting

“Students benefit from getting the information right from the source.

inclusive strategies to help all new students create a personalized success

I can go into the classroom and all the students know who I am,” said

plan that builds confidence and gets them started on the right path toward

Rodriguez. “It’s been such a pleasure to connect on a very personal level

a college degree or certificate.”

and really understand from their viewpoint why they’re going into a particular field of interest. Of most of the students I’ve connected

“

We want to serve the students, meet their needs and break down barriers, so they can be successful.

”

with, many are really interested in starting at CLC and transferring to a four-year college or university.”

Before the college and career navigators came on board, the college operated in a more traditional manner with recruiters seeking out prospective students who then handed them off to advisors. Previously a college recruiter, Sarah Nyquist is now a navigator devoted to adult learners and transfer students.

Additionally, it’s natural for new students to have many questions.

“We need to answer them with the student in mind first, then ensure

“It’s really exciting, not just for the students, but for us as the first semester

that each student has a personalized success plan in place,”

advising team,” said Nyquist. Navigators map out a personalized success

said Sanders-Funnye.

plan for all students to help guide them during their first semester.

“Everyone’s had an overwhelmingly positive response to the program and

Starting in fall 2020, all students have one point of contact from the

the work we can do to serve our students, and really be able to serve them

moment they inquire about attending CLC. While there are many teams

in a very individual capacity.”

working behind the onboarding scene, prospective students don’t need a long list of contacts to answer questions. Students work with a reliable,

“This welcoming relationship building fosters a sense of belonging,” said Sanders-Funnye, who leads the team of College and Career Navigators. These strategic staff members become coaches and mentors who guide new students at the beginning of their college path.

The navigators assist new students with learning about CLC, career

College of Lake County’s strategic plan is built on the foundation of a student-centered design

exploration, selecting a field of interest and program of study, first

framework focused on creating an ideal and equitable student experience for everyone. This

semester course selection, academic and financial planning and

integrated seamless experience for every student begins with the first point of contact and continues

transitioning into college life. What’s more, CLC has partnered with

through the student’s awareness and college-knowledge, planning for success, experiential learning,

several area high schools to embed a staff member at the school, giving

academic progress, timely completion and transition to the workforce or university.

unprecedented access to students exploring what lies beyond senior year.

Informed by best practices at community colleges across the country and a national student-

“I graduated from Waukegan High School and I didn’t have a navigator.

focused organization called Achieving the Dream, purposeful changes are being made to the CLC

There wasn’t a guide person,” said Carolina Rodriguez who is an

student experience from the very beginning, so students can progress quickly, saving their most

embedded College and Career Navigator at Wauconda High School.

valuable resources of time and money.

“I look back and wonder why no one told me about College of Lake

STUDENT SUCCESS /’st(y)oodnt/ s k’ses/ (noun)

e

Redesigning the student journey: Navigating a good start

friendly navigator to determine exactly what they need to get started.

Achieving educational attainment for every student by providing personalized, culturally relevant student learning experiences, grounded in equitable practice in an inclusive student-ready environment.

County. Why didn’t anyone tell me I could’ve saved money, that there

Linking new students to the college Whether they’re entering as a high school graduate or adult learner, all new students will get the help they need navigating the start of college.

04

CLC CONNECTS

were all these scholarships available? My role is to help students in high school who are like I was when I was a high school student.”

Rodriguez is among nearly a dozen navigators who are laying the program’s foundation in its first year. Rodriguez is already seeing

JUNE 2021 05

This speaks to the equity and inclusion work CLC is doing to serve every

of contact, they help students enroll in their first semester of college, or

student because education is not a ‘one-size-fits-all’ solution. The college

even preliminary work to ensure they start earning college credits as soon

is committed to ensure all policies, procedures and processes are free of

as possible. They work with students to coach them through developing

barriers and provide a seamless experience to all who come to CLC.

academic, financial, transfer and career plans.

“We have students coming from so many different backgrounds and

Launching all students on a successful first-year experience

being a navigator allows us to work with those students ‘one-on-one’ to overcome their barriers,” said Nyquist. “Sometimes students need help with something simple, such as getting records. Other times, it’s more complicated, like finding childcare during class, transportation getting to

New student orientation is the next important step to the start of a

class or technology to do the coursework. All students can be successful

student’s successful career at CLC and it’s a crucial experience many

when given the appropriate support services, like they are at CLC.”

students were missing. That’s because the college’s event-based program

“This redesigned model pulls apart the idea of orientation as a program

was offered in limited capacities and participation was only required for

and shapes it into an integrated experience,” said Director of Student

Students aren’t the only ones benefiting from the new model. When

credential-seeking students who graduated from high school within the

Success Strategy Nick Branson. “It’s a series of steps and conversations, as

someone chooses to further their education, it touches every aspect of

past two years.

well as on-demand resources when students are ready for the next piece of

their lives and that of their community.

Students earn credits earlier with accelerated English and Math classes

information. Each of these touch points builds a deeper connection with Student success research from CLC shows those who participate in new

students on an individual basis.”

All college students need to have a certain level of

“The high schools are getting so much out of the navigator program for

student orientation are more likely to continue their education from first

their community,” Nyquist added. “They’re getting a great CLC partner

to second semester. This same data also revealed an unintentional equity

At an institution with tens of thousands of students, it takes college-wide

who connects with their students. They’re also getting someone who can

issue: Black and African American students were less likely to encounter

collaboration to do great student success work. Branson organizes and

specifically offer college knowledge and ensure their students are taking

the orientation program because they were more likely to take a break

empowers faculty and staff in both their day-to-day role and large college-

advantage of scholarships.”

between high school and college, compared to Latinx and white students.

wide initiatives to improve the CLC student experience.

semesters to reach credit classes. New accelerated

To address equity and advance this early success milestone, 100 percent of

English and math skills to begin taking for-credit college classes. Students now begin earning credit toward a credential earlier, instead of taking two course work is an initiative CLC is doing to

College navigators have constant training to prepare for the academic

new students will engage in a personalized, culturally-relevant onboarding

Starting in the fall, a new convocation ceremony will be offered at the

intentionally advance student success through

first semester advising they use to guide new students. As the initial point

experience starting in fall 2021, regardless of age.

start of every semester. This event builds a sense of belonging and makes

strategic, prioritized efforts grounded in

students excited for the start of semester. Attendees learn about key resources and hear from the college president, other students and faculty about what it means to be a member of the CLC Lancer community.

It’s also the moment when the students transition from their personal

equitable practices.

The English department’s Accelerated Learning Program provides developmental English students

navigator to the academic success advisor who will guide them through

access to college-credit courses sooner by allowing

the rest of their time at the college. These academic advisors are experts

students to take college-level English along with

in the student’s field of interest, so they know exactly what courses they

a small group, workshop-style support class.

should take, saving students time and money.

Additionally, the college created a new College Success Seminar that is integrated into the experience of credential-seeking students. Taught by qualified teaching faculty who are personal development experts, the

The math department partnered with advising to promote a general education math pathway that allows students who might have otherwise spent

course covers topics like growth mindset, success strategies and behaviors,

a semester in a non-credit, developmental math

CLC resources, financial literacy, self-advocacy and self-identity in a

course to instead enroll in another math course

diverse world.

where they can earn credits that count toward

“We expect students who take this class to be more likely to earn more

a credential.

credits toward their credentials and continue to pursue their educational goals,” said Branson. “This is one piece of our broader plan to build an equity-minded success framework which moves CLC to being studentready. It’s designed as an early opportunity for all new students, so they get access to information about resources and support systems, as well as develop skills to help them be successful in college.”

06 CLC CONNECTS

JUNE 2021 07

This speaks to the equity and inclusion work CLC is doing to serve every

of contact, they help students enroll in their first semester of college, or

student because education is not a ‘one-size-fits-all’ solution. The college

even preliminary work to ensure they start earning college credits as soon

is committed to ensure all policies, procedures and processes are free of

as possible. They work with students to coach them through developing

barriers and provide a seamless experience to all who come to CLC.

academic, financial, transfer and career plans.

“We have students coming from so many different backgrounds and

Launching all students on a successful first-year experience

being a navigator allows us to work with those students ‘one-on-one’ to overcome their barriers,” said Nyquist. “Sometimes students need help with something simple, such as getting records. Other times, it’s more complicated, like finding childcare during class, transportation getting to

New student orientation is the next important step to the start of a

class or technology to do the coursework. All students can be successful

student’s successful career at CLC and it’s a crucial experience many

when given the appropriate support services, like they are at CLC.”

students were missing. That’s because the college’s event-based program

“This redesigned model pulls apart the idea of orientation as a program

was offered in limited capacities and participation was only required for

and shapes it into an integrated experience,” said Director of Student

Students aren’t the only ones benefiting from the new model. When

credential-seeking students who graduated from high school within the

Success Strategy Nick Branson. “It’s a series of steps and conversations, as

someone chooses to further their education, it touches every aspect of

past two years.

well as on-demand resources when students are ready for the next piece of

their lives and that of their community.

Students earn credits earlier with accelerated English and Math classes

information. Each of these touch points builds a deeper connection with Student success research from CLC shows those who participate in new

students on an individual basis.”

All college students need to have a certain level of

“The high schools are getting so much out of the navigator program for

student orientation are more likely to continue their education from first

their community,” Nyquist added. “They’re getting a great CLC partner

to second semester. This same data also revealed an unintentional equity

At an institution with tens of thousands of students, it takes college-wide

who connects with their students. They’re also getting someone who can

issue: Black and African American students were less likely to encounter

collaboration to do great student success work. Branson organizes and

specifically offer college knowledge and ensure their students are taking

the orientation program because they were more likely to take a break

empowers faculty and staff in both their day-to-day role and large college-

advantage of scholarships.”

between high school and college, compared to Latinx and white students.

wide initiatives to improve the CLC student experience.

semesters to reach credit classes. New accelerated

To address equity and advance this early success milestone, 100 percent of

English and math skills to begin taking for-credit college classes. Students now begin earning credit toward a credential earlier, instead of taking two course work is an initiative CLC is doing to

College navigators have constant training to prepare for the academic

new students will engage in a personalized, culturally-relevant onboarding

Starting in the fall, a new convocation ceremony will be offered at the

intentionally advance student success through

first semester advising they use to guide new students. As the initial point

experience starting in fall 2021, regardless of age.

start of every semester. This event builds a sense of belonging and makes

strategic, prioritized efforts grounded in

students excited for the start of semester. Attendees learn about key resources and hear from the college president, other students and faculty about what it means to be a member of the CLC Lancer community.

It’s also the moment when the students transition from their personal

equitable practices.

The English department’s Accelerated Learning Program provides developmental English students

navigator to the academic success advisor who will guide them through

access to college-credit courses sooner by allowing

the rest of their time at the college. These academic advisors are experts

students to take college-level English along with

in the student’s field of interest, so they know exactly what courses they

a small group, workshop-style support class.

should take, saving students time and money.

Additionally, the college created a new College Success Seminar that is integrated into the experience of credential-seeking students. Taught by qualified teaching faculty who are personal development experts, the

The math department partnered with advising to promote a general education math pathway that allows students who might have otherwise spent

course covers topics like growth mindset, success strategies and behaviors,

a semester in a non-credit, developmental math

CLC resources, financial literacy, self-advocacy and self-identity in a

course to instead enroll in another math course

diverse world.

where they can earn credits that count toward

“We expect students who take this class to be more likely to earn more

a credential.

credits toward their credentials and continue to pursue their educational goals,” said Branson. “This is one piece of our broader plan to build an equity-minded success framework which moves CLC to being studentready. It’s designed as an early opportunity for all new students, so they get access to information about resources and support systems, as well as develop skills to help them be successful in college.”

06 CLC CONNECTS

JUNE 2021 07

Access and Success for Students

// Tech help makes virtual learning possible

[ Saving students more than money ]

While most students were enrolled in virtual classes in fall 2020, one of the top five challenges to learning they faced was internet connectivity

Since the pandemic began last spring, more than 700 laptops, 400 hotspots and 200 TI-84 calculators were provided to students at no-cost. These loans kept $350,000 in the pockets of students while ensuring they can properly continue their studies.

“It has made a significant difference,” said Alyssa Tucibat, a nursing student from Mundelein. “I have a laptop at home from 2008 I was using prior to borrowing the laptop from the college, but my home computer does not have a camera and therefore does not support Zoom for class lectures.”

Tucibat first enrolled at CLC in 2005 and has earned an associate in science, associate in arts and two certificates over the years. Her most recent educational endeavor saw her enter the college’s nursing program

What’s

New?

To meet students where they are with more

from which she graduated in May 2021. Going virtual almost derailed

flexible classes, CLC is taking four of our

the whole thing.

popular programs and also offering them

laptops and other technology for students’ home use.

“In the last year I have not been able to afford paying for internet, so the

completely online this fall:

To help students who struggled with remote accessibility for virtual

my assignments and read my eBook,” said Tucibat. “Without being able

issues. About 40 percent of students said they experienced connectivity issues sometimes or often. At the same time, 68 percent of students said they were not aware CLC offers outdoor Wi-Fi spots and loans hotspots,

classes, the college made an investment in technologies, allowing students to continue investing in themselves.

“Our mission is to provide support services and resources to meet the unique needs of our students so they can achieve their goals. That does not stop when the students learn from home,” said Vice President of Student Development Karen Hlavin. “Ensuring students have access to needed technology without the added expense is a priority for the college in these challenging times.”

hotspot has allowed me to be able to attend Zoom lectures, complete to borrow the laptop, I would not be able to participate in class and my nursing program would have been delayed. Instead, I will graduate in May with my associate degree in nursing.”

Mechanical engineering student Arlet Alcala does not have a computer at her Round Lake Park home. Instead, she has always come to the CLC library when one was needed. But then COVID restricted access

• Supply Chain Management (AAS) – learn the latest in this hot field • Human Services (AAS) – change your life and others – earn your CADC

to the library.

“Many of us do not have enough money to buy a laptop or computer,” said Alcala. “I have borrowed the laptop for two semesters now and it is an immense help from CLC. I hope to graduate this year and that would not have been possible without this.”

• Accounting (AAS) – Our faculty bring real-world experience from the business world into the classroom.

• Associate degree (AA) – Classes are

Lancers Keep Learning

available every eight weeks to earn credits and move toward the degree.

While CLC always offered wrap-around student supports to holistically help the community, needs heightened during the pandemic. The college created a new microsite called Lancers Keep Learning with convenient online access to all the resources available to students beyond loaning technology such as health services, financial aid, free tutoring and psychological services.

Explore more than 170 degrees and certificates offered at CLC online at www.clcillinois.edu/programs.

www.clcillinois.edu/lancerskeeplearning

JUNE 2021 09

Access and Success for Students

// Tech help makes virtual learning possible

[ Saving students more than money ]

While most students were enrolled in virtual classes in fall 2020, one of the top five challenges to learning they faced was internet connectivity

Since the pandemic began last spring, more than 700 laptops, 400 hotspots and 200 TI-84 calculators were provided to students at no-cost. These loans kept $350,000 in the pockets of students while ensuring they can properly continue their studies.

“It has made a significant difference,” said Alyssa Tucibat, a nursing student from Mundelein. “I have a laptop at home from 2008 I was using prior to borrowing the laptop from the college, but my home computer does not have a camera and therefore does not support Zoom for class lectures.”

Tucibat first enrolled at CLC in 2005 and has earned an associate in science, associate in arts and two certificates over the years. Her most recent educational endeavor saw her enter the college’s nursing program

What’s

New?

To meet students where they are with more

from which she graduated in May 2021. Going virtual almost derailed

flexible classes, CLC is taking four of our

the whole thing.

popular programs and also offering them

laptops and other technology for students’ home use.

“In the last year I have not been able to afford paying for internet, so the

completely online this fall:

To help students who struggled with remote accessibility for virtual

my assignments and read my eBook,” said Tucibat. “Without being able

issues. About 40 percent of students said they experienced connectivity issues sometimes or often. At the same time, 68 percent of students said they were not aware CLC offers outdoor Wi-Fi spots and loans hotspots,

classes, the college made an investment in technologies, allowing students to continue investing in themselves.

“Our mission is to provide support services and resources to meet the unique needs of our students so they can achieve their goals. That does not stop when the students learn from home,” said Vice President of Student Development Karen Hlavin. “Ensuring students have access to needed technology without the added expense is a priority for the college in these challenging times.”

hotspot has allowed me to be able to attend Zoom lectures, complete to borrow the laptop, I would not be able to participate in class and my nursing program would have been delayed. Instead, I will graduate in May with my associate degree in nursing.”

Mechanical engineering student Arlet Alcala does not have a computer at her Round Lake Park home. Instead, she has always come to the CLC library when one was needed. But then COVID restricted access

• Supply Chain Management (AAS) – learn the latest in this hot field • Human Services (AAS) – change your life and others – earn your CADC

to the library.

“Many of us do not have enough money to buy a laptop or computer,” said Alcala. “I have borrowed the laptop for two semesters now and it is an immense help from CLC. I hope to graduate this year and that would not have been possible without this.”

• Accounting (AAS) – Our faculty bring real-world experience from the business world into the classroom.

• Associate degree (AA) – Classes are

Lancers Keep Learning

available every eight weeks to earn credits and move toward the degree.

While CLC always offered wrap-around student supports to holistically help the community, needs heightened during the pandemic. The college created a new microsite called Lancers Keep Learning with convenient online access to all the resources available to students beyond loaning technology such as health services, financial aid, free tutoring and psychological services.

Explore more than 170 degrees and certificates offered at CLC online at www.clcillinois.edu/programs.

www.clcillinois.edu/lancerskeeplearning

JUNE 2021 09

Equity and Inclusion

“When we sit together in circles and listen to one another, we begin to recognize that we are all one.”

W.K. Kellogg Foundation: https://healourcommunities.org

the school community as it deepens its commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion.

g n i t a r b e l e our Diversity C From healing circles and LGBTQ+ pride events to a bold new initiative to establish the College of Lake County as a center for truth, racial healing and transformation, the Diversity Council is at the forefront of CLC’s efforts to create a more inclusive, equitable and compassionate world.

Next up is the Council’s most ambitious initiative to date: the launch of the college’s Truth, Racial Healing and Transformation (TRHT) initiative.

“Lorri and Jesse, along with a few others, were responsible for the college’s proposal to become a Truth, Racial Healing and Transformation Center,” notes Dr. Suddick. “Our work on this project will begin this summer in “The response has been extremely positive,” says Scott. “People

partnership with the Workforce Development Board and United Way

appreciate the opportunity to talk about race, misunderstandings and

Lake County.”

microaggressions. They want to discuss ways to improve their own skills and responses to those issues as a community.”

“CLC President Dr. Lori Suddick introduced us to the concept of

Through this initiative, CLC will join colleges and universities across the country in a nationwide, community-based effort to bring about

community and restorative circles in 2018,” explains Morales, a college

In recent years, the Diversity Council also has created diversity, equity

transformational, sustainable change and address the historic and

administrator and adjunct faculty member who is a passionate proponent

and inclusion (DEI) statements to guide the school’s 2024 strategic plan,

contemporary effects of racism.

of culturally responsive teaching. “We began to research the topic in

worked with the school’s leadership to create the first gender-neutral

2019. In summer 2020, we trained with a restorative justice practitioner

restroom on campus and updated every gender-assigned restroom on

“Our community partners will be instrumental in helping us develop

to learn restorative practices and gain insights into circle topics such as

campus with signage that invites students to use the restroom that best

and implement our TRHT action plan during the coming year,” says

community building, peacekeeping and racial healing. Around that time,

aligns with their gender identity.

Scott. “We will rely heavily on their guidance, mentoring and input as

we accelerated the development of the Lancer Circle program because we

we develop a plan that incorporates the perspectives and needs of our

could see that there was a growing need in the school community for a

“We had a lot of conversations about inclusivity and making every

By September 2020—eight months into a deadly pandemic after a

safe space where people could come together to talk about challenging,

member of our school community feel welcomed—especially those who

summer of divisive politics and widespread protests against racial

sensitive topics.”

might feel marginalized in society as a whole,” explains Morales. “One

It’s been a busy couple of years for the Diversity Council and the college’s

aspect of our campus that was not welcoming was our bathroom signage.

leadership team as they work together to foster success for every student

injustice—our nation was in dire need of healing.

students and faculty, as well as the larger community.”

Rooted in the circle process used by Indigenous Peoples for millennia,

So we changed the old, gender-restrictive signs to gender-inclusive ones.

and employee by creating an inclusive, equitable and barrier-free

At College of Lake County, some of that healing was already happening

contemporary community and restorative circles seek to unearth

It was an easy fix that had an immediate, positive impact.”

environment that enables them to achieve their academic, career and

as a dozen members of the college community convened virtually to

and unlearn the deeply held and often unconscious beliefs created by

share their lived experiences of race, racism and racial justice in the

racism, particularly the belief in a “hierarchy of human value,” which

During the 2019–20 academic year, the Council’s efforts to create a more

college’s first Lancer Circle.

is the perception of inferiority or superiority based on race, physical

inclusive campus culture continued with the debut of a new “Through

But Dr. Suddick and Diversity Council are just getting started.

characteristics or place of origin.

Our Eyes” speaker series featuring Latinx and African American

“We’re working hard to make progress and take actions that fulfill the

According to Diversity Council co-chairs Lorri Scott and Jesse Morales— the experience was a cathartic one for everyone involved.

personal goals.

presenters. The Council also kicked off the College’s first LGBTQ+

diversity, equity and inclusion statements created by the Council in 2018,

Since that first Lancer Circle, hundreds of CLC students, faculty members

pride celebration with a virtual presentation by non-binary trailblazer

which are integrated into our 2024 Strategic Plan,’ she says.

and staff have participated in more than 35 virtual circles on topics such as

Kate Bornstein, who spoke about her challenges and achievements as a

“It’s important to have those statements, but it’s even more important

“The time was ripe for us to provide a space for healing after the tensions

unintentional harm, open-mindedness, developing trust, the 2020 presidential

gender-nonconforming actress. Currently, the Council is in the process

to take action.”

of the summer of 2020,” says Scott, a legal studies instructor at the college.

election, navigating conflict, standing against racism and bias triggers.

of drafting anti-racism and land-acknowledgement statements to guide

10 CLC CONNECTS

JUNE 2021 11

Equity and Inclusion

“When we sit together in circles and listen to one another, we begin to recognize that we are all one.”

W.K. Kellogg Foundation: https://healourcommunities.org

the school community as it deepens its commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion.

g n i t a r b e l e our Diversity C From healing circles and LGBTQ+ pride events to a bold new initiative to establish the College of Lake County as a center for truth, racial healing and transformation, the Diversity Council is at the forefront of CLC’s efforts to create a more inclusive, equitable and compassionate world.

Next up is the Council’s most ambitious initiative to date: the launch of the college’s Truth, Racial Healing and Transformation (TRHT) initiative.

“Lorri and Jesse, along with a few others, were responsible for the college’s proposal to become a Truth, Racial Healing and Transformation Center,” notes Dr. Suddick. “Our work on this project will begin this summer in “The response has been extremely positive,” says Scott. “People

partnership with the Workforce Development Board and United Way

appreciate the opportunity to talk about race, misunderstandings and

Lake County.”

microaggressions. They want to discuss ways to improve their own skills and responses to those issues as a community.”

“CLC President Dr. Lori Suddick introduced us to the concept of

Through this initiative, CLC will join colleges and universities across the country in a nationwide, community-based effort to bring about

community and restorative circles in 2018,” explains Morales, a college

In recent years, the Diversity Council also has created diversity, equity

transformational, sustainable change and address the historic and

administrator and adjunct faculty member who is a passionate proponent

and inclusion (DEI) statements to guide the school’s 2024 strategic plan,

contemporary effects of racism.

of culturally responsive teaching. “We began to research the topic in

worked with the school’s leadership to create the first gender-neutral

2019. In summer 2020, we trained with a restorative justice practitioner

restroom on campus and updated every gender-assigned restroom on

“Our community partners will be instrumental in helping us develop

to learn restorative practices and gain insights into circle topics such as

campus with signage that invites students to use the restroom that best

and implement our TRHT action plan during the coming year,” says

community building, peacekeeping and racial healing. Around that time,

aligns with their gender identity.

Scott. “We will rely heavily on their guidance, mentoring and input as

we accelerated the development of the Lancer Circle program because we

we develop a plan that incorporates the perspectives and needs of our

could see that there was a growing need in the school community for a

“We had a lot of conversations about inclusivity and making every

By September 2020—eight months into a deadly pandemic after a

safe space where people could come together to talk about challenging,

member of our school community feel welcomed—especially those who

summer of divisive politics and widespread protests against racial

sensitive topics.”

might feel marginalized in society as a whole,” explains Morales. “One

It’s been a busy couple of years for the Diversity Council and the college’s

aspect of our campus that was not welcoming was our bathroom signage.

leadership team as they work together to foster success for every student

injustice—our nation was in dire need of healing.

students and faculty, as well as the larger community.”

Rooted in the circle process used by Indigenous Peoples for millennia,

So we changed the old, gender-restrictive signs to gender-inclusive ones.

and employee by creating an inclusive, equitable and barrier-free

At College of Lake County, some of that healing was already happening

contemporary community and restorative circles seek to unearth

It was an easy fix that had an immediate, positive impact.”

environment that enables them to achieve their academic, career and

as a dozen members of the college community convened virtually to

and unlearn the deeply held and often unconscious beliefs created by

share their lived experiences of race, racism and racial justice in the

racism, particularly the belief in a “hierarchy of human value,” which

During the 2019–20 academic year, the Council’s efforts to create a more

college’s first Lancer Circle.

is the perception of inferiority or superiority based on race, physical

inclusive campus culture continued with the debut of a new “Through

But Dr. Suddick and Diversity Council are just getting started.

characteristics or place of origin.

Our Eyes” speaker series featuring Latinx and African American

“We’re working hard to make progress and take actions that fulfill the

According to Diversity Council co-chairs Lorri Scott and Jesse Morales— the experience was a cathartic one for everyone involved.

personal goals.

presenters. The Council also kicked off the College’s first LGBTQ+

diversity, equity and inclusion statements created by the Council in 2018,

Since that first Lancer Circle, hundreds of CLC students, faculty members

pride celebration with a virtual presentation by non-binary trailblazer

which are integrated into our 2024 Strategic Plan,’ she says.

and staff have participated in more than 35 virtual circles on topics such as

Kate Bornstein, who spoke about her challenges and achievements as a

“It’s important to have those statements, but it’s even more important

“The time was ripe for us to provide a space for healing after the tensions

unintentional harm, open-mindedness, developing trust, the 2020 presidential

gender-nonconforming actress. Currently, the Council is in the process

to take action.”

of the summer of 2020,” says Scott, a legal studies instructor at the college.

election, navigating conflict, standing against racism and bias triggers.

of drafting anti-racism and land-acknowledgement statements to guide

10 CLC CONNECTS

JUNE 2021 11

Equity and Inclusion

Not being able to pay for gas should never keep a student out of class.

No matter what challenges students face, the college is dedicated to helping them complete their credential so they can get a better job and a better life. Research shows that understanding and addressing student needs holistically can lead to dramatic improvements in students’ outcomes.

STUDENT SAVINGS

SURVIVING

THE CLC HELPS STUDENTS THROUGH MOMENTS OF EMERGENCY

The COVID-19 pandemic is not the first crisis CLC students and their families face. More than 80 percent of students report working at least one job while attending classes at CLC. During the pandemic, students had to work reduced hours, take unpaid time off work to quarantine,

PANDEMIC

AND

BEYOND

“It is a program of care and compassion for the Lancer community.”

CARING CALLERS

Keeping affordability top of mind, the Board of Trustees approved the

CLC employees volunteered throughout the pandemic to help with calling

recommendation to freeze tuition rates and existing course fees for

campaigns. More than 5,000 personal phone calls were made to students.

the upcoming academic year. In addition to maintaining the cost of

The college called to see how they were doing amid challenges brought

attending CLC, the college continues offering student employment in a

by the COVID-19 pandemic. Callers became a friendly motivational

remote work environment. The college did not furlough or layoff a single

voice students could talk to about challenges they faced, and the college

employee, including student workers, during the pandemic.

connected them with student support services for further assistance.

TECH HELP

AFFORDABLE CHILDCARE

When the pandemic restricted access to campus, basic student needs

The college is dedicated to helping students and their families learn.

such as access to reliable internet and computers became a stuck point.

Two nationally accredited centers let students concentrate on their own

Students couldn’t attend virtual classes from their phones. The college

academic success, knowing their child will learn and play in modern,

quickly rose to meet the challenge, loaning hundreds of hotspots and

secure surroundings, supervised by childcare professionals while in

laptops free of charge and providing free Wi-Fi in college parking lots

class. Services are available year-round at the Grayslake and Lakeshore

so Lancers could keep learning.

(Waukegan) campuses at competitive rates partially underwritten by student activity fees.

MENTAL HEALTH In addition to the Health Center where students can get low-cost

FREE FOOD

laboratory testing and flu shots, CLC offers free therapy services for

SHARE Market at CLC is committed to providing food and other

students. During the pandemic, Counseling and Psychological Services

resources that are accessible to all students who have a need, and to

offered remote sessions via telehealth. Support includes individual

promoting sustainable food practices in order to continuously improve

therapy, mental health workshops, after-hours support and referrals to

the quality of the college experience for the diverse community it serves.

community resources.

Students can select from meal kits, toiletries, baby items, non-perishables and household items.

stay home to take care of family members and some even lost their jobs entirely. Financial barriers in all shapes and sizes become obstacles as

access to emergency resources for students beyond the pandemic.

students pursue their education. In the works since before stay-at-home

The Lancer Emergency Assistance Fund (LEAF) will aid students in the

orders and social distancing, emergency financial assistance is now

best way possible at their time of need.

available to all students, regardless of their situation.

Funded by CLC Foundation donations and institutional dollars, this “Each student’s situation is unique and CLC recognizes even a little help

emergency assistance will serve many purposes. Students may find

goes a long way,” said CLC President Dr. Lori Suddick. She is passionate

themselves needing cash to fix a flat tire so they can drive to class.

about removing barriers to ensure each student has an equitable

Struggling to put food on the table, students may need a meal card to buy

opportunity to further their education.

groceries so they can stay healthy and focus on coursework. They may even need help paying their electric bill while they take classes online.

While federal Higher Education Emergency Relief Fund (HEERF) grants are a beneficial resource for students, CLC wants to ensure sustainable

12 CLC CONNECTS

“Students who apply are free from judgment,” said Suddick.

JUNE 2021 13

Equity and Inclusion

Not being able to pay for gas should never keep a student out of class.

No matter what challenges students face, the college is dedicated to helping them complete their credential so they can get a better job and a better life. Research shows that understanding and addressing student needs holistically can lead to dramatic improvements in students’ outcomes.

STUDENT SAVINGS

SURVIVING

THE CLC HELPS STUDENTS THROUGH MOMENTS OF EMERGENCY

The COVID-19 pandemic is not the first crisis CLC students and their families face. More than 80 percent of students report working at least one job while attending classes at CLC. During the pandemic, students had to work reduced hours, take unpaid time off work to quarantine,

PANDEMIC

AND

BEYOND

“It is a program of care and compassion for the Lancer community.”

CARING CALLERS

Keeping affordability top of mind, the Board of Trustees approved the

CLC employees volunteered throughout the pandemic to help with calling

recommendation to freeze tuition rates and existing course fees for

campaigns. More than 5,000 personal phone calls were made to students.

the upcoming academic year. In addition to maintaining the cost of

The college called to see how they were doing amid challenges brought

attending CLC, the college continues offering student employment in a

by the COVID-19 pandemic. Callers became a friendly motivational

remote work environment. The college did not furlough or layoff a single

voice students could talk to about challenges they faced, and the college

employee, including student workers, during the pandemic.

connected them with student support services for further assistance.

TECH HELP

AFFORDABLE CHILDCARE

When the pandemic restricted access to campus, basic student needs

The college is dedicated to helping students and their families learn.

such as access to reliable internet and computers became a stuck point.

Two nationally accredited centers let students concentrate on their own

Students couldn’t attend virtual classes from their phones. The college

academic success, knowing their child will learn and play in modern,

quickly rose to meet the challenge, loaning hundreds of hotspots and

secure surroundings, supervised by childcare professionals while in

laptops free of charge and providing free Wi-Fi in college parking lots

class. Services are available year-round at the Grayslake and Lakeshore

so Lancers could keep learning.

(Waukegan) campuses at competitive rates partially underwritten by student activity fees.

MENTAL HEALTH In addition to the Health Center where students can get low-cost

FREE FOOD

laboratory testing and flu shots, CLC offers free therapy services for

SHARE Market at CLC is committed to providing food and other

students. During the pandemic, Counseling and Psychological Services

resources that are accessible to all students who have a need, and to

offered remote sessions via telehealth. Support includes individual

promoting sustainable food practices in order to continuously improve

therapy, mental health workshops, after-hours support and referrals to

the quality of the college experience for the diverse community it serves.

community resources.

Students can select from meal kits, toiletries, baby items, non-perishables and household items.

stay home to take care of family members and some even lost their jobs entirely. Financial barriers in all shapes and sizes become obstacles as

access to emergency resources for students beyond the pandemic.

students pursue their education. In the works since before stay-at-home

The Lancer Emergency Assistance Fund (LEAF) will aid students in the

orders and social distancing, emergency financial assistance is now

best way possible at their time of need.

available to all students, regardless of their situation.

Funded by CLC Foundation donations and institutional dollars, this “Each student’s situation is unique and CLC recognizes even a little help

emergency assistance will serve many purposes. Students may find

goes a long way,” said CLC President Dr. Lori Suddick. She is passionate

themselves needing cash to fix a flat tire so they can drive to class.

about removing barriers to ensure each student has an equitable

Struggling to put food on the table, students may need a meal card to buy

opportunity to further their education.

groceries so they can stay healthy and focus on coursework. They may even need help paying their electric bill while they take classes online.

While federal Higher Education Emergency Relief Fund (HEERF) grants are a beneficial resource for students, CLC wants to ensure sustainable

12 CLC CONNECTS

“Students who apply are free from judgment,” said Suddick.

JUNE 2021 13

Teaching and Learning Excellence

To create a student-ready college in which everyone can succeed, CLC is building an inclusive and flexible educational environment that meets students where they are. Faculty, like Casper, are pivotal players who work with each student in and out of the classroom. Their dedication to teaching and learning excellence to benefit students is a game changer.

CLC is improving the ways students can accumulate credit hours and

“College of Lake County classrooms are filled with the best teaching faculty.”

progress toward a credential more quickly. Credit accumulation is an important momentum point that leads to graduation. The college’s

proven to help students learn more, stay engaged and graduate in

faculty play an important role in helping students succeed, one class at

higher numbers.

a time. Instructors celebrate coursework wins with students, motivating Faculty had such an unexpectedly overwhelming response when the ACUE

them to finish.

opportunity was first made available in 2019, the college started with “Grounded in equity-minded, reflective and data-informed practice, CLC

more than double the number planned. A third cohort will start in fall.

furthers teaching and learning excellence by empowering faculty in their important role in student success,” said Vice President of Educational

“It is clear the faculty at CLC have a passion for their students,” said

Affairs and Chief Academic Officer Dr. Sonya Williams. “The college is

Director of Academic Programs ACUE director of academic programs

doing this in many ways throughout faculty development. We’re offering

Carmen Macharaschwili. “I could tell by the energy of the faculty who

faculty courses about examining pedagogy through data and engaging

had committed to the course that they were there to learn how to help

in meaning professional development. By integrating academic supports

their students be successful and they were eager to learn how to do

with classroom learning and student feedback, CLC is working toward

so effectively.”

improving student credit accumulation.”

This year-long curriculum for post-secondary educators focuses on

FOCUS ON FACULTY SUCCESS FROM HIRE TO RETIRE

F

aculty can have a fundamental impact on the lives of their

“Most students hate math because it can feel like it’s impossible to

students. Natalia Casper (pictured above) learned this lesson

succeed,” she said. “Instead of memorizing formulas, I teach them in a

firsthand when she took a calculus class at College of Lake

useful way that helps students escape from feeling lost. Students don’t

County many years ago. Casper was a quiet student who sat in

suddenly get better at math, but they become comfortable using it,

The college recently established CLC CARES guiding principles for teaching and learning excellence at the institution: CLC • Culturally relevant • Learner-centered • Collaborative

CARES • • • • •

Continuous Active Reflective Evidence-based Solution-focused

how pedagogy impacts student success. After earning their Certificate in Effective College Instruction, these faculty members across departments and disciplines will continue to transform student experiences in the classroom.

“This class helped me remove quite a bit of barriers from the students I teach,” said Warren Thomas, an adjunct instructor and student success coordinator for adult education. “I learned how to use new techniques and hone a few I was already using to better connect with students, increasing dedication to their own education.”

These guiding principles build up core dimensions including integrating

This program is supported by CLC’s Teaching, Learning and Educational

diversity, equity and inclusion into classes, implementing learning-

Technology Center and contributes to the college’s goal to empower

centered teaching practices, committing to continuous improvement

faculty to intentionally design learning experiences for students that

and professional learning, designing measurable learning outcomes

engage and prepare them for their next opportunity.

the back of the classroom. Her instructor recognized Casper’s brilliance

giving them an empowering feeling of mastery. That’s when learning

and told her so. “The experience changed my life. One teacher made all

becomes fun.”

and standards for student success and engaging beyond the classroom.

Faculty members who engage on all levels with this work achieve

“The college knows effective teaching practices make a difference for

It’s easy for an instructor to be one-dimensional, but it’s hard for students

teaching, learning, leadership and subject matter excellence.

student success,” said Page Wolf, CLC Faculty Development Chair.

the difference by giving me confidence. After that, I became excited to pursue teaching at the college level.”

to learn that way. Pedagogical research shows students grasp new

“Faculty are experts in their disciplines but sometimes may not be

Since then, Casper works tirelessly trying to return the favor. She became

concepts better when the instructor goes beyond the basics of writing

Learning how to teach

a CLC math instructor 23 years ago. And like many higher education

on the board and teaching through one-way lectures. But becoming an

One opportunity CLC faculty are taking to strengthen their teaching

teachers, prior to coming to the college, she had no formal training to

excellent, multi-dimensional teacher doesn’t happen overnight. It takes

and learning excellence is by achieving a nationally recognized teaching

learn how to teach. She was a demonstrated expert in her academic field,

an entire career of continuous work and a rich environment full of faculty

credential through the Association of College and University Educators

but not yet trained on best teaching practices, often called pedagogy.

who care deeply about their students.

(ACUE). These course-takers have demonstrated their commitment

educated about certain approaches to teaching and the proven effect these approaches have on a student’s ability to succeed.”

With a growing body of educational experts, CLC continues to motivate more students to keep moving forward with their goals.

to teaching excellence and to ensuring our students receive the best

Dedicated to student success, CLC teaching philosophy is rooted in proven teaching techniques to support student success. Through faculty

Casper says self-reflection drives faculty to refine their student-focused

education possible by completing ACUE’s rigorous course in Effective

mentoring and professional learning, Casper became an award-winning

learning methods. It’s not a linear checklist, but each faculty member is

Teaching Practices. This course requires them to implement evidence-

active and engaging educator her students really learn from.

on a journey to master high-impact practices going beyond learning in

based teaching practices in their classes. These teaching practices are

the classroom.

14 CLC CONNECTS

JUNE 2021 15

Teaching and Learning Excellence

To create a student-ready college in which everyone can succeed, CLC is building an inclusive and flexible educational environment that meets students where they are. Faculty, like Casper, are pivotal players who work with each student in and out of the classroom. Their dedication to teaching and learning excellence to benefit students is a game changer.

CLC is improving the ways students can accumulate credit hours and

“College of Lake County classrooms are filled with the best teaching faculty.”

progress toward a credential more quickly. Credit accumulation is an important momentum point that leads to graduation. The college’s

proven to help students learn more, stay engaged and graduate in

faculty play an important role in helping students succeed, one class at

higher numbers.

a time. Instructors celebrate coursework wins with students, motivating Faculty had such an unexpectedly overwhelming response when the ACUE

them to finish.

opportunity was first made available in 2019, the college started with “Grounded in equity-minded, reflective and data-informed practice, CLC

more than double the number planned. A third cohort will start in fall.

furthers teaching and learning excellence by empowering faculty in their important role in student success,” said Vice President of Educational

“It is clear the faculty at CLC have a passion for their students,” said

Affairs and Chief Academic Officer Dr. Sonya Williams. “The college is

Director of Academic Programs ACUE director of academic programs

doing this in many ways throughout faculty development. We’re offering

Carmen Macharaschwili. “I could tell by the energy of the faculty who

faculty courses about examining pedagogy through data and engaging

had committed to the course that they were there to learn how to help

in meaning professional development. By integrating academic supports

their students be successful and they were eager to learn how to do

with classroom learning and student feedback, CLC is working toward

so effectively.”

improving student credit accumulation.”

This year-long curriculum for post-secondary educators focuses on

FOCUS ON FACULTY SUCCESS FROM HIRE TO RETIRE

F

aculty can have a fundamental impact on the lives of their

“Most students hate math because it can feel like it’s impossible to

students. Natalia Casper (pictured above) learned this lesson

succeed,” she said. “Instead of memorizing formulas, I teach them in a

firsthand when she took a calculus class at College of Lake

useful way that helps students escape from feeling lost. Students don’t

County many years ago. Casper was a quiet student who sat in

suddenly get better at math, but they become comfortable using it,

The college recently established CLC CARES guiding principles for teaching and learning excellence at the institution: CLC • Culturally relevant • Learner-centered • Collaborative

CARES • • • • •

Continuous Active Reflective Evidence-based Solution-focused

how pedagogy impacts student success. After earning their Certificate in Effective College Instruction, these faculty members across departments and disciplines will continue to transform student experiences in the classroom.

“This class helped me remove quite a bit of barriers from the students I teach,” said Warren Thomas, an adjunct instructor and student success coordinator for adult education. “I learned how to use new techniques and hone a few I was already using to better connect with students, increasing dedication to their own education.”

These guiding principles build up core dimensions including integrating

This program is supported by CLC’s Teaching, Learning and Educational

diversity, equity and inclusion into classes, implementing learning-

Technology Center and contributes to the college’s goal to empower

centered teaching practices, committing to continuous improvement

faculty to intentionally design learning experiences for students that

and professional learning, designing measurable learning outcomes

engage and prepare them for their next opportunity.

the back of the classroom. Her instructor recognized Casper’s brilliance

giving them an empowering feeling of mastery. That’s when learning

and told her so. “The experience changed my life. One teacher made all

becomes fun.”

and standards for student success and engaging beyond the classroom.

Faculty members who engage on all levels with this work achieve

“The college knows effective teaching practices make a difference for

It’s easy for an instructor to be one-dimensional, but it’s hard for students

teaching, learning, leadership and subject matter excellence.

student success,” said Page Wolf, CLC Faculty Development Chair.

the difference by giving me confidence. After that, I became excited to pursue teaching at the college level.”

to learn that way. Pedagogical research shows students grasp new

“Faculty are experts in their disciplines but sometimes may not be

Since then, Casper works tirelessly trying to return the favor. She became

concepts better when the instructor goes beyond the basics of writing

Learning how to teach

a CLC math instructor 23 years ago. And like many higher education

on the board and teaching through one-way lectures. But becoming an

One opportunity CLC faculty are taking to strengthen their teaching

teachers, prior to coming to the college, she had no formal training to

excellent, multi-dimensional teacher doesn’t happen overnight. It takes

and learning excellence is by achieving a nationally recognized teaching

learn how to teach. She was a demonstrated expert in her academic field,

an entire career of continuous work and a rich environment full of faculty

credential through the Association of College and University Educators

but not yet trained on best teaching practices, often called pedagogy.

who care deeply about their students.

(ACUE). These course-takers have demonstrated their commitment

educated about certain approaches to teaching and the proven effect these approaches have on a student’s ability to succeed.”

With a growing body of educational experts, CLC continues to motivate more students to keep moving forward with their goals.

to teaching excellence and to ensuring our students receive the best

Dedicated to student success, CLC teaching philosophy is rooted in proven teaching techniques to support student success. Through faculty

Casper says self-reflection drives faculty to refine their student-focused

education possible by completing ACUE’s rigorous course in Effective

mentoring and professional learning, Casper became an award-winning

learning methods. It’s not a linear checklist, but each faculty member is

Teaching Practices. This course requires them to implement evidence-

active and engaging educator her students really learn from.

on a journey to master high-impact practices going beyond learning in

based teaching practices in their classes. These teaching practices are

the classroom.

14 CLC CONNECTS

JUNE 2021 15

Community and Workforce Partnerships

program spaces for automation, robotics, mechatronics, mechanical engineering, industrial engineering, computerized numeric control (CNC) machining, advanced manufacturing, industrial maintenance and

STACKABLE SKILLS ACCELERATE STUDENTS FOR MANUFACTURING JOBS

welding/fabrication.

“The ATC will offer students industry certifications embedded in hands-on classes with engaging, detailed and guided instruction,” said Dean of Engineering, Mathematics and Physical Sciences Dr. Richard Ammon. “Most of the jobs these graduates will go into come with familysustaining wages well above minimum wage. Some of our graduates in mechatronics, with the program’s one-year certificate, make more than people coming out of school with bachelor’s degrees. Our career pathway will train students to get into the workforce quickly, then allow them to come back to the college and continue to advance their knowledge, skills and ultimately value to companies.”

Once completed, students will be well prepared for further education or, critically, eligible for immediate employment. Those receiving an Associate in Applied Science degree can advance their careers by transferring to a four-year college or university to work toward a bachelor’s degree.

Continuing education for employees The acceleration of change in the manufacturing industry requires current employees to keep their skillsets up to date. At the same time, the local economy thrives when its residents have meaningful and challenging work that provides them with a promising career and the ability to advance in their profession.

The ATC offers classes for our traditional students and local employees both. With easy access to short-term, industry-specific training through intensive one-to-eight-week courses in a state-of-the-art facility, industry will prosper and grow and so will their employees.

Advanced Technology Center opens Fall 2022 When the state-of-the-art Advanced Technology Center (ATC) opens

Partnerships Dr. Ali O’Brien. “When completed, the center promises to

With the backing of community partners, foresighted business

supply area industry with a steady, highly trained stream of local talent

leaders and industry visionaries, CLC soon will offer its students

that also can have an impact on economic development by helping

and local employers an unparalleled technology center complete

attract, retain, and grow manufacturers in the area.”

with knowledgeable faculty to provide hands-on training and instruction with the industry’s latest equipment and technology.

its doors in 2022, College of Lake County students can proceed with sharpening their skills to earn the short- and long-term credentials

As the second largest manufacturing county in Illinois, Lake County

Best of all, this innovation resource will be local, affordable and

needed to fill the high-skill, high-wage and in-demand workforce jobs of

is an economic powerhouse, outputting $35.7 billion in goods a year.

accessible to all.

the Lake County manufacturing and technology sector.

This new facility will keep the region at the forefront of modern, global manufacturing by delivering industry-responsive career pathways for

Recognizing the need to act, in December 2020 the college

“One in seven workers in Lake County is employed in the manufacturing

students that align with the economic-development needs of the area’s

purchased a 142,000-square-foot former big-box store in Gurnee

sector,” said CLC Vice President of Community and Workforce

manufacturing and technology sectors.

to house the ATC. Its adaptive-use design provides for tailored

16 CLC CONNECTS

Community and Workforce Partnerships

program spaces for automation, robotics, mechatronics, mechanical engineering, industrial engineering, computerized numeric control (CNC) machining, advanced manufacturing, industrial maintenance and

STACKABLE SKILLS ACCELERATE STUDENTS FOR MANUFACTURING JOBS

welding/fabrication.

“The ATC will offer students industry certifications embedded in hands-on classes with engaging, detailed and guided instruction,” said Dean of Engineering, Mathematics and Physical Sciences Dr. Richard Ammon. “Most of the jobs these graduates will go into come with familysustaining wages well above minimum wage. Some of our graduates in mechatronics, with the program’s one-year certificate, make more than people coming out of school with bachelor’s degrees. Our career pathway will train students to get into the workforce quickly, then allow them to come back to the college and continue to advance their knowledge, skills and ultimately value to companies.”

Once completed, students will be well prepared for further education or, critically, eligible for immediate employment. Those receiving an Associate in Applied Science degree can advance their careers by transferring to a four-year college or university to work toward a bachelor’s degree.

Continuing education for employees The acceleration of change in the manufacturing industry requires current employees to keep their skillsets up to date. At the same time, the local economy thrives when its residents have meaningful and challenging work that provides them with a promising career and the ability to advance in their profession.

The ATC offers classes for our traditional students and local employees both. With easy access to short-term, industry-specific training through intensive one-to-eight-week courses in a state-of-the-art facility, industry will prosper and grow and so will their employees.

Advanced Technology Center opens Fall 2022 When the state-of-the-art Advanced Technology Center (ATC) opens

Partnerships Dr. Ali O’Brien. “When completed, the center promises to

With the backing of community partners, foresighted business

supply area industry with a steady, highly trained stream of local talent

leaders and industry visionaries, CLC soon will offer its students

that also can have an impact on economic development by helping

and local employers an unparalleled technology center complete

attract, retain, and grow manufacturers in the area.”

with knowledgeable faculty to provide hands-on training and instruction with the industry’s latest equipment and technology.

its doors in 2022, College of Lake County students can proceed with sharpening their skills to earn the short- and long-term credentials

As the second largest manufacturing county in Illinois, Lake County

Best of all, this innovation resource will be local, affordable and

needed to fill the high-skill, high-wage and in-demand workforce jobs of

is an economic powerhouse, outputting $35.7 billion in goods a year.

accessible to all.

the Lake County manufacturing and technology sector.

This new facility will keep the region at the forefront of modern, global manufacturing by delivering industry-responsive career pathways for

Recognizing the need to act, in December 2020 the college

“One in seven workers in Lake County is employed in the manufacturing

students that align with the economic-development needs of the area’s

purchased a 142,000-square-foot former big-box store in Gurnee

sector,” said CLC Vice President of Community and Workforce

manufacturing and technology sectors.

to house the ATC. Its adaptive-use design provides for tailored

16 CLC CONNECTS

Community and Workforce Partnerships

Their circumstances and career interests couldn’t be more different. But

After 26 years of general factory jobs, Navarro’s apprenticeship

their apprenticeship experiences have one thing in common: they’ve been

experience has inspired him to dream bigger.

life changing.

“Right now, my main goal is to finish the apprenticeship program,” he

“I never thought I’d be returning to corporate America—and, by the time I realized I might have to, it would have been difficult to follow a traditional pathway,” says Berg. “This apprenticeship program was the answer for me. It’s not just for students coming out of high school. It’s for everyone.”

“A well-educated workforce builds the foundation for shared economic prosperity.”

the college’s strategic visioning process.

“We wanted to remove barriers to student success by developing an apprenticeship program that would reduce the cost and time involved in getting a college degree while equipping students with skills that were aligned with marketplace needs,” says Vice President of Community and

need of qualified applicants as baby boomers reached retirement age and

“I read a story about a woman who, like me, was educated in a different

EARN WHILE YOU LEARN WITH APPRENTICESHIPS

The seeds of CLC’s apprenticeship program were planted in 2017 during

more robust workforce pipeline by preparing students to fill positions in

underrepresented.

A Pipeline to Prosperity

robotics and automation or aerospace. Or maybe I’ll run my own shop.”

Workforce Partnerships Dr. Ali O’Brien. “We also wanted to create a

Peterson wanted to forge a career in a field where women were

— Noah Berger and Peter Fisher; Economic Analysis and Research Network Report: A Well-Educated Workforce is Key to State Prosperity (August 22, 2013)

confides. “But after that I may get into some form of engineering—

field but really wanted to expand opportunities for women,” she says.

“She decided to start a new career as a mechanic, opened her own shop and now employs an all-female staff of mechanics. I was so inspired by that. Then I received a brochure about College of Lake County’s apprenticeship programs in the mail. When I opened it, there was a photo of a young woman buffing a classic car, with copy that read: ‘Come join one of our apprenticeship programs.’ I was sold! I’m having so much fun now—and I’m finally in a situation where I can say, ‘I just want to be at work.’”

manufacturing continued to expand in Lake County.”

“The data coming in at the county and national level indicated apprenticeships were a successful way for employers to fill their talent pipeline and increase their retention rates,” she adds. “So, we reached out to local businesses and corporations to gauge their interest in partnering with us and to determine their specific industry needs, which became the main drivers of our program design.”

Meanwhile, O’Brien and her team were making good on another strategic objective: the establishment of the college’s new Community

Since its inception in August 2020, College of Lake County’s apprenticeship program created new pathways to student success by combining career-related classroom instruction with on-the-job training guided by a mentor. It’s a win-win situation: student apprentices earn while they learn and get a jumpstart on their chosen careers while local employers gain access to a custom-trained workforce.

CLC’s new student apprentices are a diverse group: • Darrell Berg, a 59-year-old Navy veteran and former computer programmer, is apprenticing with Aon to find a pathway back to corporate America after a decade of semi-retirement.

• Olivia Peterson (pictured above), a 28-year-old with master’s degrees in music and library science, is preparing for a new career in auto collision repair after she experienced a dearth of opportunities in the music field and her prospects for a second career as a librarian dimmed during the pandemic.

94%+

$1.47

$70K

$300K+

Percentage of apprentices who retain employment after apprenticeship completion

Employer return on every dollar invested in apprenticeships

Average starting salary for students who have completed apprentice programs

Lifetime earning average for apprentice graduates

• Jesse Navarro, a 44-year-old former factory worker, is apprenticing at Leppala Machining to get the specialized skills he needs to program and operate advanced

Sources: apprenticeship.gov and nationalapprenticeship.org

manufacturing equipment.

18 CLC CONNECTS

JUNE 2021 19

Community and Workforce Partnerships

Their circumstances and career interests couldn’t be more different. But

After 26 years of general factory jobs, Navarro’s apprenticeship

their apprenticeship experiences have one thing in common: they’ve been

experience has inspired him to dream bigger.

life changing.

“Right now, my main goal is to finish the apprenticeship program,” he

“I never thought I’d be returning to corporate America—and, by the time I realized I might have to, it would have been difficult to follow a traditional pathway,” says Berg. “This apprenticeship program was the answer for me. It’s not just for students coming out of high school. It’s for everyone.”

“A well-educated workforce builds the foundation for shared economic prosperity.”

the college’s strategic visioning process.

“We wanted to remove barriers to student success by developing an apprenticeship program that would reduce the cost and time involved in getting a college degree while equipping students with skills that were aligned with marketplace needs,” says Vice President of Community and

need of qualified applicants as baby boomers reached retirement age and

“I read a story about a woman who, like me, was educated in a different

EARN WHILE YOU LEARN WITH APPRENTICESHIPS

The seeds of CLC’s apprenticeship program were planted in 2017 during

more robust workforce pipeline by preparing students to fill positions in

underrepresented.

A Pipeline to Prosperity

robotics and automation or aerospace. Or maybe I’ll run my own shop.”

Workforce Partnerships Dr. Ali O’Brien. “We also wanted to create a

Peterson wanted to forge a career in a field where women were

— Noah Berger and Peter Fisher; Economic Analysis and Research Network Report: A Well-Educated Workforce is Key to State Prosperity (August 22, 2013)

confides. “But after that I may get into some form of engineering—

field but really wanted to expand opportunities for women,” she says.

“She decided to start a new career as a mechanic, opened her own shop and now employs an all-female staff of mechanics. I was so inspired by that. Then I received a brochure about College of Lake County’s apprenticeship programs in the mail. When I opened it, there was a photo of a young woman buffing a classic car, with copy that read: ‘Come join one of our apprenticeship programs.’ I was sold! I’m having so much fun now—and I’m finally in a situation where I can say, ‘I just want to be at work.’”

manufacturing continued to expand in Lake County.”

“The data coming in at the county and national level indicated apprenticeships were a successful way for employers to fill their talent pipeline and increase their retention rates,” she adds. “So, we reached out to local businesses and corporations to gauge their interest in partnering with us and to determine their specific industry needs, which became the main drivers of our program design.”

Meanwhile, O’Brien and her team were making good on another strategic objective: the establishment of the college’s new Community

Since its inception in August 2020, College of Lake County’s apprenticeship program created new pathways to student success by combining career-related classroom instruction with on-the-job training guided by a mentor. It’s a win-win situation: student apprentices earn while they learn and get a jumpstart on their chosen careers while local employers gain access to a custom-trained workforce.

CLC’s new student apprentices are a diverse group: • Darrell Berg, a 59-year-old Navy veteran and former computer programmer, is apprenticing with Aon to find a pathway back to corporate America after a decade of semi-retirement.

• Olivia Peterson (pictured above), a 28-year-old with master’s degrees in music and library science, is preparing for a new career in auto collision repair after she experienced a dearth of opportunities in the music field and her prospects for a second career as a librarian dimmed during the pandemic.

94%+

$1.47

$70K

$300K+

Percentage of apprentices who retain employment after apprenticeship completion

Employer return on every dollar invested in apprenticeships

Average starting salary for students who have completed apprentice programs

Lifetime earning average for apprentice graduates

• Jesse Navarro, a 44-year-old former factory worker, is apprenticing at Leppala Machining to get the specialized skills he needs to program and operate advanced

Sources: apprenticeship.gov and nationalapprenticeship.org

manufacturing equipment.

18 CLC CONNECTS

JUNE 2021 19

Strategic Use of Resources

and Workforce Partnerships Unit (CWP)—which has a multifaceted mission and resources that range from the James Lumber Center for the Performing Arts to a Workforce and Professional Development Institute and a Career and Job Placement Center.

COMMUNITY AND WORKFORCE PARTNERSHIPS The CWP unit was part of a broader effort to position the college as a

TRANSFORMING OUR LAKESHORE CAMPUS

hub for education, culture and workforce prosperity. “It was conceived,” says O’Brien, “to bring the college, community organizations and local employers together to achieve that goal.”

With this new infrastructure in place, the team forged ahead with program development. “We built workforce relationships, gathered commitments from employers, hosted information sessions for current and prospective students, talked to local workforce boards and contacted community organizations to spread the word about the program,” recalls Dr. Sylvia Johnson Jones, executive director of the CWP’s Career and Job Placement Center. “We also worked closely with CLC faculty members and apprentice employers to strengthen the academic components of the apprenticeships and ensure what was taught in the classroom was relevant in the workplace.”

GRANT-FUNDED APPRENTICESHIPS With a $244,000 grant that originated from the Siemens Foundation, MxD is now partnering with the college to help close the digital skills

The first workforce partners to commit to the program were as diverse as

gap in the Lake County area by aligning workforce training with market

the apprentices they hired.

needs through CLC apprenticeships. The grant will cover tuition fees and some living expenses for students enrolled in automation, robotics

“We have everything from a mom-and-pop machine shop with four

and mechatronics and computerized numeric control apprenticeship

employees to global corporations,” says Apprenticeship Manager Daniel

programs. A portion of the funding also will be used to integrate

Ortego. “Aon, which has made a national commitment to growing its

cybersecurity into the college’s curriculum to support the development

apprenticeship program, was the first to partner with us. Ten other

of a local workforce equipped to handle cybersecurity threats in

workforce partners signed after that, enabling us to offer apprenticeships

manufacturing settings. Because it removes many of the traditional

in five fields of interest: automotive, business, horticulture,

barriers to degree completion and career advancement, apprenticeships

manufacturing and information technology.”

have been a saving grace for the students in our first cohort.

By August 2020, the program was in full swing, with 21 apprentices

Max Lehman, a 30-year-old CLC apprentice at Siemens in Buffalo Grove,

ranging in age from 18 to 59 pursuing new educational and career

is a case in point. Lehman was previously working full-time as a waiter

opportunities in specialties running the gamut from automation, robotics

and trying to squeeze in a class or two as he pursued an associate degree

and mechatronics to cybersecurity and landscape design.

in automation, robotics and mechatronics. He was serious about his

With a nearly $48 million campus renovation and expansion project underway, the college is realizing its vision of a vibrant urban campus serving as an educational and cultural hub for the Lake County community, promoting economic prosperity through workforce partnerships, revitalizing Waukegan’s central business district and providing innovative programming to enhance community health and well-being.

education, but life kept getting in the way.

In March 2021, the program got another boost. Manufacturing x Digital (MxD)—which equips U.S. factories with digital tools and expertise

Now he’s working in his chosen field and earning a salary with benefits

and leads cybersecurity and workforce development efforts to ensure

while making steady progress toward his degree as a full-time student.

that digital manufacturing has the security and talent it needs to be

His educational expenses are fully paid, and he receives a stipend to help

effectively deployed—collaborated with CLC to financially support the

with living expenses such as rent, transportation and work clothing.

manufacturing apprenticeship program.

“I feel way more confident about my future now because I’m earning a degree while gaining a skill set that’s in high demand,” says Lehman. “In a

Lakeshore Dean Jesus Ruiz

little over a year, I’ll graduate with zero debt and a full-time job at one of the top companies in the country.”

20 CLC CONNECTS

JUNE 2021 21

Strategic Use of Resources

and Workforce Partnerships Unit (CWP)—which has a multifaceted mission and resources that range from the James Lumber Center for the Performing Arts to a Workforce and Professional Development Institute and a Career and Job Placement Center.

COMMUNITY AND WORKFORCE PARTNERSHIPS The CWP unit was part of a broader effort to position the college as a

TRANSFORMING OUR LAKESHORE CAMPUS

hub for education, culture and workforce prosperity. “It was conceived,” says O’Brien, “to bring the college, community organizations and local employers together to achieve that goal.”

With this new infrastructure in place, the team forged ahead with program development. “We built workforce relationships, gathered commitments from employers, hosted information sessions for current and prospective students, talked to local workforce boards and contacted community organizations to spread the word about the program,” recalls Dr. Sylvia Johnson Jones, executive director of the CWP’s Career and Job Placement Center. “We also worked closely with CLC faculty members and apprentice employers to strengthen the academic components of the apprenticeships and ensure what was taught in the classroom was relevant in the workplace.”

GRANT-FUNDED APPRENTICESHIPS With a $244,000 grant that originated from the Siemens Foundation, MxD is now partnering with the college to help close the digital skills

The first workforce partners to commit to the program were as diverse as

gap in the Lake County area by aligning workforce training with market

the apprentices they hired.

needs through CLC apprenticeships. The grant will cover tuition fees and some living expenses for students enrolled in automation, robotics

“We have everything from a mom-and-pop machine shop with four

and mechatronics and computerized numeric control apprenticeship

employees to global corporations,” says Apprenticeship Manager Daniel

programs. A portion of the funding also will be used to integrate

Ortego. “Aon, which has made a national commitment to growing its

cybersecurity into the college’s curriculum to support the development

apprenticeship program, was the first to partner with us. Ten other

of a local workforce equipped to handle cybersecurity threats in

workforce partners signed after that, enabling us to offer apprenticeships

manufacturing settings. Because it removes many of the traditional

in five fields of interest: automotive, business, horticulture,

barriers to degree completion and career advancement, apprenticeships

manufacturing and information technology.”

have been a saving grace for the students in our first cohort.

By August 2020, the program was in full swing, with 21 apprentices

Max Lehman, a 30-year-old CLC apprentice at Siemens in Buffalo Grove,

ranging in age from 18 to 59 pursuing new educational and career

is a case in point. Lehman was previously working full-time as a waiter

opportunities in specialties running the gamut from automation, robotics

and trying to squeeze in a class or two as he pursued an associate degree

and mechatronics to cybersecurity and landscape design.

in automation, robotics and mechatronics. He was serious about his

With a nearly $48 million campus renovation and expansion project underway, the college is realizing its vision of a vibrant urban campus serving as an educational and cultural hub for the Lake County community, promoting economic prosperity through workforce partnerships, revitalizing Waukegan’s central business district and providing innovative programming to enhance community health and well-being.

education, but life kept getting in the way.

In March 2021, the program got another boost. Manufacturing x Digital (MxD)—which equips U.S. factories with digital tools and expertise

Now he’s working in his chosen field and earning a salary with benefits

and leads cybersecurity and workforce development efforts to ensure

while making steady progress toward his degree as a full-time student.

that digital manufacturing has the security and talent it needs to be

His educational expenses are fully paid, and he receives a stipend to help

effectively deployed—collaborated with CLC to financially support the

with living expenses such as rent, transportation and work clothing.

manufacturing apprenticeship program.

“I feel way more confident about my future now because I’m earning a degree while gaining a skill set that’s in high demand,” says Lehman. “In a

Lakeshore Dean Jesus Ruiz

little over a year, I’ll graduate with zero debt and a full-time job at one of the top companies in the country.”

20 CLC CONNECTS

JUNE 2021 21

When Tiffany Peppers first set foot on College of Lake County’s Lakeshore Campus, she was 19-years-old with a high school degree and an uncertain future.

“I had spent 10 years in foster care—and when I arrived in Waukegan to start my senior year of high school, it was my fourth school in four years,” she confides. “After I graduated, I got a job because I didn’t know a thing about applying to college. But one day I caught a bus to CLC’s Lakeshore Campus and found my way to the admissions office. The staff there guided me through the admissions process, made sure I got a scholarship and helped me change my life.”

Peppers is now a doctoral student and executive director of the JIC Community Development Corporation, a nonprofit dedicated to educating, empowering and enriching the lives of people in the Waukegan community. A member of the CLC Foundation Board, she also serves on the Lakeshore Campus Advisory Committee—a coalition of civic leaders who partner with the college to ensure the campus meets community and workforce needs.

Today, Peppers can see the Lakeshore Campus from her office on Genesee Street—and she’s thrilled to see her alma mater undergoing a transformation as radical and life-enhancing as her own.

“With this expansion,” she says, “we’ll be able to serve more students and add more courses and programs—so more lives can be changed.”

The Lakeshore Commitment

welcoming space for student and community gatherings with panoramic

“This ambitious capital enhancement project fulfills many of the

views of Lake Michigan and an open-air balcony.

objectives outlined in the Lakeshore Commitment to provide a more accessible, equitable and successful college experience for Lakeshore

In recent years, the college expanded its curriculum with new programs

Campus students,” says CLC President Dr. Lori Suddick.

in automation, robotics and mechatronics, healthcare and HVAC to equip students with the skills and knowledge they need to succeed in a

“For many years, CLC students living in the Waukegan area had to

marketplace transformed by 21st-century technologies. The new Student

travel to our Grayslake Campus to take classes not available here,” adds

Center will provide the infrastructure for more programmatic expansion

Lakeshore Campus Dean Jesus Ruiz. “With this campus expansion,

in areas such as digital media, entrepreneurship, horticulture, hospitality

we’ll be able to offer increased access to high-quality educational

and manufacturing.

opportunities, an expanded curriculum, guaranteed access to core courses and more flexible start times on a state-of-the-art campus with

Other campus enhancements include the renovation of our Children’s

21st-century learning spaces and technologies.”

Learning Center and an existing science lab, the creation of a new classroom and the transformation of our Lakeshore Campus Plaza into

A Full-Service Campus Experience At the heart of the campus expansion is a $48-million, six-story, 62,692-square-foot Student Center.

an inviting outdoor oasis with benches, gardens and greenery.

Building a Healthier Community A soon-to-be-developed urban farm will enhance the well-being

Designed to meet LEED Platinum certification standards for sustainable

of the Waukegan community by bringing food, health and jobs together

architecture and a healthier planet, the center will house a Welcome and

in one location.

One-Stop Center with centralized student services, library and resource center with meeting spaces and study areas, adult education and career

In partnership with the Chicago Botanic Garden through its Windy

placement centers, general education classrooms, laboratories for the

City Harvest urban agriculture program, a Center for Urban Agriculture

college’s certified nursing assistant and phlebotomy programs, tutoring

and Community Development will provide access to fresh produce

center, testing rooms and support services.

and nutrition education for community members; job training and certification programs in agricultural vocations, food safety, cooking and

The Eleanor Murkey Community Center on the building’s top floor—

nutrition; wraparound services and supports to reduce food insecurity;

named in honor of the campus’s founding dean—will provide a

and access to safe, green outdoor spaces made possible through thoughtful landscape design. The farm will serve as a learning lab with 32,000 square feet of growing space for hydroponics, aquaponics and raised-bed growing technologies.

CLC cooks in the kitchens of Brae Loch Things are heating up as CLC expands its hospitality and

A “Veggie Rx” distribution center will partner with local health care

culinary management program to the vacant Brae Loch Golf

providers to offer nutrition education, fresh produce and cooking classes

Club facility, thanks to a partnership with the Lake County

for residents with diet-related diseases. An indoor market will sell fresh,

Forest Preserves. The banquet facility near the Grayslake

affordable produce and nutritious prepared foods throughout the year

Campus on Route 45 will soon be occupied with the next

and a student-run cafe will serve healthy menu and to-go items made

generation of culinary students sharpening their cooking

from ingredients grown on the farm.

skills at CLC.

“The college and Chicago Botanic Garden are committed to ‘equity in

The space will be fitted with top-of-the-line kitchen

access and success’ so every citizen in Lake County can pursue a quality

equipment to better train our culinary students, while

education and live a healthy, productive life,” says College of Lake County

increasing community awareness of the college’s program

Foundation Executive Director Kurt Peterson. “Both organizations are

and how it prepares the workforce with the latest skills. The

deeply committed to working with and within communities to lift people

college offers associate degrees in hospitality and culinary

up by giving them the opportunities and resources they need to not only

management and baking and pastry arts with plans to expand

survive but thrive. This partnership, which will be supported primarily

hospitality into its own program and add a catering and event

through private philanthropy, is an investment not only in education and

management credential.

equity, but in a healthier future for the Lake County community.”

JUNE 2021 23

When Tiffany Peppers first set foot on College of Lake County’s Lakeshore Campus, she was 19-years-old with a high school degree and an uncertain future.

“I had spent 10 years in foster care—and when I arrived in Waukegan to start my senior year of high school, it was my fourth school in four years,” she confides. “After I graduated, I got a job because I didn’t know a thing about applying to college. But one day I caught a bus to CLC’s Lakeshore Campus and found my way to the admissions office. The staff there guided me through the admissions process, made sure I got a scholarship and helped me change my life.”

Peppers is now a doctoral student and executive director of the JIC Community Development Corporation, a nonprofit dedicated to educating, empowering and enriching the lives of people in the Waukegan community. A member of the CLC Foundation Board, she also serves on the Lakeshore Campus Advisory Committee—a coalition of civic leaders who partner with the college to ensure the campus meets community and workforce needs.

Today, Peppers can see the Lakeshore Campus from her office on Genesee Street—and she’s thrilled to see her alma mater undergoing a transformation as radical and life-enhancing as her own.

“With this expansion,” she says, “we’ll be able to serve more students and add more courses and programs—so more lives can be changed.”

The Lakeshore Commitment

welcoming space for student and community gatherings with panoramic

“This ambitious capital enhancement project fulfills many of the

views of Lake Michigan and an open-air balcony.

objectives outlined in the Lakeshore Commitment to provide a more accessible, equitable and successful college experience for Lakeshore

In recent years, the college expanded its curriculum with new programs

Campus students,” says CLC President Dr. Lori Suddick.

in automation, robotics and mechatronics, healthcare and HVAC to equip students with the skills and knowledge they need to succeed in a

“For many years, CLC students living in the Waukegan area had to

marketplace transformed by 21st-century technologies. The new Student

travel to our Grayslake Campus to take classes not available here,” adds

Center will provide the infrastructure for more programmatic expansion

Lakeshore Campus Dean Jesus Ruiz. “With this campus expansion,

in areas such as digital media, entrepreneurship, horticulture, hospitality

we’ll be able to offer increased access to high-quality educational

and manufacturing.

opportunities, an expanded curriculum, guaranteed access to core courses and more flexible start times on a state-of-the-art campus with

Other campus enhancements include the renovation of our Children’s

21st-century learning spaces and technologies.”

Learning Center and an existing science lab, the creation of a new classroom and the transformation of our Lakeshore Campus Plaza into

A Full-Service Campus Experience At the heart of the campus expansion is a $48-million, six-story, 62,692-square-foot Student Center.

an inviting outdoor oasis with benches, gardens and greenery.

Building a Healthier Community A soon-to-be-developed urban farm will enhance the well-being

Designed to meet LEED Platinum certification standards for sustainable

of the Waukegan community by bringing food, health and jobs together

architecture and a healthier planet, the center will house a Welcome and

in one location.

One-Stop Center with centralized student services, library and resource center with meeting spaces and study areas, adult education and career

In partnership with the Chicago Botanic Garden through its Windy

placement centers, general education classrooms, laboratories for the

City Harvest urban agriculture program, a Center for Urban Agriculture

college’s certified nursing assistant and phlebotomy programs, tutoring

and Community Development will provide access to fresh produce

center, testing rooms and support services.

and nutrition education for community members; job training and certification programs in agricultural vocations, food safety, cooking and

The Eleanor Murkey Community Center on the building’s top floor—

nutrition; wraparound services and supports to reduce food insecurity;

named in honor of the campus’s founding dean—will provide a

and access to safe, green outdoor spaces made possible through thoughtful landscape design. The farm will serve as a learning lab with 32,000 square feet of growing space for hydroponics, aquaponics and raised-bed growing technologies.

CLC cooks in the kitchens of Brae Loch Things are heating up as CLC expands its hospitality and

A “Veggie Rx” distribution center will partner with local health care

culinary management program to the vacant Brae Loch Golf

providers to offer nutrition education, fresh produce and cooking classes

Club facility, thanks to a partnership with the Lake County

for residents with diet-related diseases. An indoor market will sell fresh,

Forest Preserves. The banquet facility near the Grayslake

affordable produce and nutritious prepared foods throughout the year

Campus on Route 45 will soon be occupied with the next

and a student-run cafe will serve healthy menu and to-go items made

generation of culinary students sharpening their cooking

from ingredients grown on the farm.

skills at CLC.

“The college and Chicago Botanic Garden are committed to ‘equity in

The space will be fitted with top-of-the-line kitchen

access and success’ so every citizen in Lake County can pursue a quality

equipment to better train our culinary students, while

education and live a healthy, productive life,” says College of Lake County

increasing community awareness of the college’s program

Foundation Executive Director Kurt Peterson. “Both organizations are

and how it prepares the workforce with the latest skills. The

deeply committed to working with and within communities to lift people

college offers associate degrees in hospitality and culinary

up by giving them the opportunities and resources they need to not only

management and baking and pastry arts with plans to expand

survive but thrive. This partnership, which will be supported primarily

hospitality into its own program and add a catering and event

through private philanthropy, is an investment not only in education and

management credential.

equity, but in a healthier future for the Lake County community.”

JUNE 2021 23

Strategic Use of Resources

For Shauntel Jones, the barriers were different but equally daunting.

“I had exhausted my financial aid years ago when I was working toward my associate degree, and I was still paying off student loans,” says the 44-year-old healthcare worker. “I’d been caring for hospital patients for more than a decade—and I loved my patients—but I was getting older and having health issues. I needed to get a desk job in a smaller healthcare setting to make it to retirement. I never could have done that without a scholarship for job training.”

“Scholarships helped me stay on track when I was in college and kept me from giving up on my dream of a higher education.”

Despite barriers like these, hundreds of CLC students like Diamond and Jones have achieved their educational goals—thanks to a groundbreaking partnership between 17 Illinois community colleges, the Illinois Community College Board and the Illinois Legislative Black Caucus called the Workforce Equity Initiative (WEI).

Over the past two years, the college received $2.7 million in grant

Through innovative grant partnerships and privately funded foundation scholarships, College of Lake County is removing the financial barriers to a higher education and helping hundreds of low-income students—from recent high school graduates to middle-aged career changers—graduate debt free and realize their dreams of a better life.

Closing the Opportunity Gap Many CLC students are just one emergency or unexpected expense away from completing their certificate or degree programs. For 28-year-old Desiree Diamond, that emergency was COVID-19.

“I was working in the culinary field and being off work during the pandemic meant there was no way I could afford to pay for my classes,” says Diamond. “Without a scholarship, furthering my education to become a healthcare office assistant would have been out of the question.”

24 CLC CONNECTS

funding from this initiative to support its Transform Lake County scholarship program—which covers tuition and fees, course materials, textbooks, industry-exam fees and even some living expenses—so lowincome, minority students can get the short-term vocational training and certification they need to earn a living wage.

Diamond, who completed her healthcare certificate in May 2021, feels like she has options for the first time since the pandemic hit.

Jones, who has also completed her certificate, is now qualified to embark on a second career that’s a better fit for her life stage and circumstances.

“The Transform Lake County scholarship removed a huge financial barrier for me,” says Jones. “It gave me peace of mind because I knew I was gaining the skills and knowledge I needed to qualify for a healthcare office job with fewer physical demands.”

Stories like these resonate with CLC Vice President of Strategy, Planning and Support Derrick Harden, whose own life was immeasurably enriched by scholarship support.

“As a first-generation college graduate who benefited from the generosity of scholarship donors, I’ve personally experienced the life-changing impact of scholarship programs,” says Harden.

That gratitude fuels Harden’s work today as his team collaborates with state representatives, private foundations and the College of Lake County Foundation to increase grant and scholarship opportunities for CLC students.

“Partnerships like the Workforce Equity Initiative are essential for student access and success in our diverse community,” says Lakeshore Campus Dean Jesus Ruiz. “The Transform Lake County program would not have been possible without the support of State Representative Rita Mayfield and the Legislative Black Caucus. We’ve collaborated with Representative Mayfield on many college infrastructure and student-success initiatives.

Her advocacy at the state level has been invaluable.”

JUNE 2021 25

Strategic Use of Resources

For Shauntel Jones, the barriers were different but equally daunting.

“I had exhausted my financial aid years ago when I was working toward my associate degree, and I was still paying off student loans,” says the 44-year-old healthcare worker. “I’d been caring for hospital patients for more than a decade—and I loved my patients—but I was getting older and having health issues. I needed to get a desk job in a smaller healthcare setting to make it to retirement. I never could have done that without a scholarship for job training.”

“Scholarships helped me stay on track when I was in college and kept me from giving up on my dream of a higher education.”

Despite barriers like these, hundreds of CLC students like Diamond and Jones have achieved their educational goals—thanks to a groundbreaking partnership between 17 Illinois community colleges, the Illinois Community College Board and the Illinois Legislative Black Caucus called the Workforce Equity Initiative (WEI).

Over the past two years, the college received $2.7 million in grant

Through innovative grant partnerships and privately funded foundation scholarships, College of Lake County is removing the financial barriers to a higher education and helping hundreds of low-income students—from recent high school graduates to middle-aged career changers—graduate debt free and realize their dreams of a better life.

Closing the Opportunity Gap Many CLC students are just one emergency or unexpected expense away from completing their certificate or degree programs. For 28-year-old Desiree Diamond, that emergency was COVID-19.

“I was working in the culinary field and being off work during the pandemic meant there was no way I could afford to pay for my classes,” says Diamond. “Without a scholarship, furthering my education to become a healthcare office assistant would have been out of the question.”

24 CLC CONNECTS

funding from this initiative to support its Transform Lake County scholarship program—which covers tuition and fees, course materials, textbooks, industry-exam fees and even some living expenses—so lowincome, minority students can get the short-term vocational training and certification they need to earn a living wage.

Diamond, who completed her healthcare certificate in May 2021, feels like she has options for the first time since the pandemic hit.

Jones, who has also completed her certificate, is now qualified to embark on a second career that’s a better fit for her life stage and circumstances.

“The Transform Lake County scholarship removed a huge financial barrier for me,” says Jones. “It gave me peace of mind because I knew I was gaining the skills and knowledge I needed to qualify for a healthcare office job with fewer physical demands.”

Stories like these resonate with CLC Vice President of Strategy, Planning and Support Derrick Harden, whose own life was immeasurably enriched by scholarship support.

“As a first-generation college graduate who benefited from the generosity of scholarship donors, I’ve personally experienced the life-changing impact of scholarship programs,” says Harden.

That gratitude fuels Harden’s work today as his team collaborates with state representatives, private foundations and the College of Lake County Foundation to increase grant and scholarship opportunities for CLC students.

“Partnerships like the Workforce Equity Initiative are essential for student access and success in our diverse community,” says Lakeshore Campus Dean Jesus Ruiz. “The Transform Lake County program would not have been possible without the support of State Representative Rita Mayfield and the Legislative Black Caucus. We’ve collaborated with Representative Mayfield on many college infrastructure and student-success initiatives.

Her advocacy at the state level has been invaluable.”

JUNE 2021 25

“Hi Metallica Scholars Award donors,” he wrote. “Thank you from the bottom of my heart for your generosity and kindness. This scholarship relieved my stress about paying my tuition fees and enabled me to buy a starter tool set required for my automotive classes. I’m planning to become a professional mechanic. My goal is to become a car designer and design my own supercar. My greatest ambition—and the one thing I want most—is to take my mom out of poverty. When I’ve accomplished these dreams and have money, I plan on giving back to my community and

“Our mission as a community college is to help all our students achieve their educational goals, regardless of their life circumstances.”

inspiring other young automotive majors to accomplish their goals with a scholarship of my own.”

One barrier, Harden points out, can be the complex or confusing scholarship application process. “We recently simplified the scholarship

During the program’s first year, more than 60 CLC students benefited

application process. Now, rather than having to sort through a list of

from the scholarships, with a 90 percent program completion rate and

scholarships to see which ones they qualify for and submitting multiple

a 95 percent job placement rate. Metallica renewed its support for CLC

applications, our students fill out a single form and a counselor

students in 2020 and 2021.

does the rest.”

Creating affordable opportunities

Kurt Peterson is the executive director of the College of Lake County Foundation, which raises funds for more than 100 different scholarships, to generate more scholarship support for students in need.

Although tuition at CLC is only a third of the cost of a public university

TRANSFORM LAKE COUNTY

2,000+ Applicants

According to Ruiz, the WEI-funded CLC Transform Lake County program has already prepared

and one ninth of the cost of a private university in Illinois, 25 percent of

“During the 2019-20 academic year—thanks to the extraordinary

students for jobs that pay 30 percent above the living wage or more than $17.68 per hour.

CLC students rely on financial aid and scholarship support to complete

generosity and commitment of our local foundations and benefactors—

their studies.

we awarded over $1 million in scholarships to more than 600 students and provided additional emergency funding to students experiencing

“WEI grant funding has enabled us to remove many barriers to student success by covering the cost of tuition and fees for short-term vocational training,” he emphasizes. “More than

“Our goal is to remove every possible barrier so our students can focus

pandemic-related financial hardships,” Peterson reports. “More than 50

200 students have received Transform Lake County scholarships to pursue training in CLC

on their learning,” says Harden. “To fulfill that mission, we need to

percent of our foundation scholarships were awarded to first-generation

programs such as administrative management technology, auto-collision repair, automotive

remove certain barriers to degree or certificate completion. We offer

college students.”

technology, SolidWorks® CAD software, certified Nurse Assisting, forklift operator, healthcare

traditional scholarships, which help cover the cost of tuition fees and

office assistant, heating and air-conditioning technology, phlebotomy and truck driving.

books, as well as stipends and emergency funds to cover expenses such as

“These benefactors make our mission to promote equity and inclusion

Forty-five of these students are already employed with an average wage of $18.88 per hour—

food, childcare, transportation and other personal needs.

in education possible,” states CLC President Dr. Lori Suddick. “We are

filling workplace skills gaps and revitalizing the Lake County workforce.”

profoundly grateful for their continued support, which enables us to provide high-quality educational opportunities that lead to life-sustaining

79%

Metallica Scholarships

wages for the diverse communities that we serve.”

One of CLC’s most interesting partnerships is with Metallica— a critically acclaimed

First cohort, successful completion/currently enrolled 119 students

American heavy metal band with substantial commercial success.

In late 2018, CLC was one of 10 community colleges across the nation selected to partner with Metallica’s All Within My Hands Foundation to improve career opportunities for community college students in the trades. An initial cohort of 61 CLC students received Metallica scholarships in 2019 to pursue vocational training in automotive collision repair, automotive technology, computerized numerical controls, electrical engineering technology, HVAC, automation, robotics and mechatronics, laser/photonics/optics and welding.

45 students currently employed with an average wage of $18.88 an hour

26 CLC CONNECTS

David Arizmendi—an 18-year-old majoring in automotive technology at CLC at the time— was one of those students. His story was featured on the Metallica All Within My Hands Foundation website.

JUNE 2021 27

“Hi Metallica Scholars Award donors,” he wrote. “Thank you from the bottom of my heart for your generosity and kindness. This scholarship relieved my stress about paying my tuition fees and enabled me to buy a starter tool set required for my automotive classes. I’m planning to become a professional mechanic. My goal is to become a car designer and design my own supercar. My greatest ambition—and the one thing I want most—is to take my mom out of poverty. When I’ve accomplished these dreams and have money, I plan on giving back to my community and

“Our mission as a community college is to help all our students achieve their educational goals, regardless of their life circumstances.”

inspiring other young automotive majors to accomplish their goals with a scholarship of my own.”

One barrier, Harden points out, can be the complex or confusing scholarship application process. “We recently simplified the scholarship

During the program’s first year, more than 60 CLC students benefited

application process. Now, rather than having to sort through a list of

from the scholarships, with a 90 percent program completion rate and

scholarships to see which ones they qualify for and submitting multiple

a 95 percent job placement rate. Metallica renewed its support for CLC

applications, our students fill out a single form and a counselor

students in 2020 and 2021.

does the rest.”

Creating affordable opportunities

Kurt Peterson is the executive director of the College of Lake County Foundation, which raises funds for more than 100 different scholarships, to generate more scholarship support for students in need.

Although tuition at CLC is only a third of the cost of a public university

TRANSFORM LAKE COUNTY

2,000+ Applicants

According to Ruiz, the WEI-funded CLC Transform Lake County program has already prepared

and one ninth of the cost of a private university in Illinois, 25 percent of

“During the 2019-20 academic year—thanks to the extraordinary

students for jobs that pay 30 percent above the living wage or more than $17.68 per hour.

CLC students rely on financial aid and scholarship support to complete

generosity and commitment of our local foundations and benefactors—

their studies.

we awarded over $1 million in scholarships to more than 600 students and provided additional emergency funding to students experiencing

“WEI grant funding has enabled us to remove many barriers to student success by covering the cost of tuition and fees for short-term vocational training,” he emphasizes. “More than

“Our goal is to remove every possible barrier so our students can focus

pandemic-related financial hardships,” Peterson reports. “More than 50

200 students have received Transform Lake County scholarships to pursue training in CLC

on their learning,” says Harden. “To fulfill that mission, we need to

percent of our foundation scholarships were awarded to first-generation

programs such as administrative management technology, auto-collision repair, automotive

remove certain barriers to degree or certificate completion. We offer

college students.”

technology, SolidWorks® CAD software, certified Nurse Assisting, forklift operator, healthcare

traditional scholarships, which help cover the cost of tuition fees and

office assistant, heating and air-conditioning technology, phlebotomy and truck driving.

books, as well as stipends and emergency funds to cover expenses such as

“These benefactors make our mission to promote equity and inclusion

Forty-five of these students are already employed with an average wage of $18.88 per hour—

food, childcare, transportation and other personal needs.

in education possible,” states CLC President Dr. Lori Suddick. “We are

filling workplace skills gaps and revitalizing the Lake County workforce.”

profoundly grateful for their continued support, which enables us to provide high-quality educational opportunities that lead to life-sustaining

79%

Metallica Scholarships

wages for the diverse communities that we serve.”

One of CLC’s most interesting partnerships is with Metallica— a critically acclaimed

First cohort, successful completion/currently enrolled 119 students

American heavy metal band with substantial commercial success.

In late 2018, CLC was one of 10 community colleges across the nation selected to partner with Metallica’s All Within My Hands Foundation to improve career opportunities for community college students in the trades. An initial cohort of 61 CLC students received Metallica scholarships in 2019 to pursue vocational training in automotive collision repair, automotive technology, computerized numerical controls, electrical engineering technology, HVAC, automation, robotics and mechatronics, laser/photonics/optics and welding.

45 students currently employed with an average wage of $18.88 an hour

26 CLC CONNECTS

David Arizmendi—an 18-year-old majoring in automotive technology at CLC at the time— was one of those students. His story was featured on the Metallica All Within My Hands Foundation website.

JUNE 2021 27

Legacy of Lancers

R E C O R D - B R E A K I N G D O N AT I O N S TO F O U N DAT I O N

College of Lake County is honored to be the place where more than 70,000 students graduated with degrees and certificates since the college opened in 1969. Through the CLC Alumni Award Program, we recognize distinguished alumni based on their community impact and commitment to carry out the college’s values.

More than $3 million has been fundraised by

OPENING DOORS TO EDUCATIONAL OPPORTUNITY FOR ALL OF LAKE COUNTY

I M PAC T S TAT S FROM 2020:

the CLC Foundation during the 2021 fiscal year.

These dollars make higher education possible

MEET PAUL HETTICH ‘90

MEET BECKY MORAN ‘96

SELFLESS SERVANT

DEDICATED COACH

Retired U.S. Army Colonel Paul Hettich leads

Today you can find Becky Moran overseeing all

the life of a selfless servant. After three decades

16 athletic programs as the athletic director at

of military service and five tours of combat

Round Lake High School, but in 1996, Moran

duty, Hettich is deeply involved as a leader in

(then Kirby) was flying across the soccer field

local community organizations, making Lake

at CLC as both player and team captain.

for students who plan to transfer to a four-year school, complete a career credential and enter the Lake County workforce.

In addition to scholarships, donors are helping fund capital improvements at our Advanced Technology Center and Lakeshore Campus.

County a better place to live. An Antioch resident, Hettich is a 1990

The college is proud to award her the Distinguished Alumni Award.

graduate of College of Lake County and his lifelong dedication to civic

The start of her story is like many who have walked, and have yet to

The college received a $2 million anonymous

service recently earned him the college’s Distinguished Alumni Award.

walk, the halls of CLC.

commitment, our largest gift to date, kicking

“My life has been shaped by education, beginning with College of Lake

“As a high school student, I was lost,” said Moran. “I did not know what

County where I studied marketing,” said Hettich. He went on to earn

the future had in store for me. My mom wanted me to go to college and

his bachelor’s degree, master’s degree, Master of Strategic Studies degree,

I knew did not want my athletic career to end. CLC was close to home,

health, and jobs. The Foundation is building

several diplomas, credentials and professional licenses. His decorated

so I applied.”

philanthropic partnerships supporting strategic

military service demonstrates his dedication to excellence.

She became the first member of her family to attend college and did so

off fundraising for the Urban Farm Project that will focus on community education, food,

campus initiatives and furthering the college’s mission to deliver high-quality, accessible

Hettich continues working as a U.S. Army Reserve Ambassador in

while working at least two jobs throughout her CLC career to make ends

Illinois. He also works part-time as technical director for Center Stage

meet. Though these were not the easiest of days, Moran says she learned

Productions, a deputy ranger police officer for Lake County Forest

independence, perseverance and grit from the experience. Traits she tried

success, and strengthen the diverse Lake

Preserves in Libertyville and a court security police officer for the

to instill in her players after she became the assistant coach for the college’s

County communities we serve.

Lake County Sheriff ’s Department in Waukegan.

women’s soccer team in 1999; a position she served for four years.

Cub Scout leader, parks and recreation trustee, American Legion vice commander, president of a homeowners’ association and fourth degree knight with the Knights of Columbus, Hettich’s list of civic duties only grows in his retirement, most of it unpaid, volunteer work.

“Attending CLC opened doors I did not know I wanted to walk through.”

“I was able to start my coaching career and I fell in love with it. I found my ‘why,’ which is helping others achieve at the highest level possible,” said Moran.

To nominate yourself or another deserving Lancer for the CLC Alumni Recognition Award, contact alumni@clcillinois.edu to request the nomination packet. 2022 nominations are due 12/31/2021.

$826,526.93 TOTAL

learning opportunities, advance student

FOR SCHOLARSHIPS AND EMERGENCY FUNDS

S T U D E N T S W H O R E C E I V E D F O U N DAT I O N S C H O L A R S H I P S C O M PA R E D T O STUDENTS WHO RECEIVED OTHER FIN A N CIA L A ID:

Moran went on to serve as an assistant athletic director at several area high schools before becoming the director of athletics at Argo Community High School in 2016, and then into her current position at Round Lake High School in 2019. She serves in leadership roles with several local and national athletic associations.

GPA 3.35 vs.

2.93

“People believed in me when I may not have deserved it and I continue to pay it forward,” said Moran. “My path set me on the course to where I am today, impacting the lives of countless young people in a positive way.”

28 CLC CONNECTS

1,119 AWARDS

Earned Credits 14

Course Success Rate 92%

vs.

9

vs.

74%

Legacy of Lancers

R E C O R D - B R E A K I N G D O N AT I O N S TO F O U N DAT I O N

College of Lake County is honored to be the place where more than 70,000 students graduated with degrees and certificates since the college opened in 1969. Through the CLC Alumni Award Program, we recognize distinguished alumni based on their community impact and commitment to carry out the college’s values.

More than $3 million has been fundraised by

OPENING DOORS TO EDUCATIONAL OPPORTUNITY FOR ALL OF LAKE COUNTY

I M PAC T S TAT S FROM 2020:

the CLC Foundation during the 2021 fiscal year.

These dollars make higher education possible

MEET PAUL HETTICH ‘90

MEET BECKY MORAN ‘96

SELFLESS SERVANT

DEDICATED COACH

Retired U.S. Army Colonel Paul Hettich leads

Today you can find Becky Moran overseeing all

the life of a selfless servant. After three decades

16 athletic programs as the athletic director at

of military service and five tours of combat

Round Lake High School, but in 1996, Moran

duty, Hettich is deeply involved as a leader in

(then Kirby) was flying across the soccer field

local community organizations, making Lake

at CLC as both player and team captain.

for students who plan to transfer to a four-year school, complete a career credential and enter the Lake County workforce.

In addition to scholarships, donors are helping fund capital improvements at our Advanced Technology Center and Lakeshore Campus.

County a better place to live. An Antioch resident, Hettich is a 1990

The college is proud to award her the Distinguished Alumni Award.

graduate of College of Lake County and his lifelong dedication to civic

The start of her story is like many who have walked, and have yet to

The college received a $2 million anonymous

service recently earned him the college’s Distinguished Alumni Award.

walk, the halls of CLC.

commitment, our largest gift to date, kicking

“My life has been shaped by education, beginning with College of Lake

“As a high school student, I was lost,” said Moran. “I did not know what

County where I studied marketing,” said Hettich. He went on to earn

the future had in store for me. My mom wanted me to go to college and

his bachelor’s degree, master’s degree, Master of Strategic Studies degree,

I knew did not want my athletic career to end. CLC was close to home,

health, and jobs. The Foundation is building

several diplomas, credentials and professional licenses. His decorated

so I applied.”

philanthropic partnerships supporting strategic

military service demonstrates his dedication to excellence.

She became the first member of her family to attend college and did so

off fundraising for the Urban Farm Project that will focus on community education, food,

campus initiatives and furthering the college’s mission to deliver high-quality, accessible

Hettich continues working as a U.S. Army Reserve Ambassador in

while working at least two jobs throughout her CLC career to make ends

Illinois. He also works part-time as technical director for Center Stage

meet. Though these were not the easiest of days, Moran says she learned

Productions, a deputy ranger police officer for Lake County Forest

independence, perseverance and grit from the experience. Traits she tried

success, and strengthen the diverse Lake

Preserves in Libertyville and a court security police officer for the

to instill in her players after she became the assistant coach for the college’s

County communities we serve.

Lake County Sheriff ’s Department in Waukegan.

women’s soccer team in 1999; a position she served for four years.

Cub Scout leader, parks and recreation trustee, American Legion vice commander, president of a homeowners’ association and fourth degree knight with the Knights of Columbus, Hettich’s list of civic duties only grows in his retirement, most of it unpaid, volunteer work.

“Attending CLC opened doors I did not know I wanted to walk through.”

“I was able to start my coaching career and I fell in love with it. I found my ‘why,’ which is helping others achieve at the highest level possible,” said Moran.

To nominate yourself or another deserving Lancer for the CLC Alumni Recognition Award, contact alumni@clcillinois.edu to request the nomination packet. 2022 nominations are due 12/31/2021.

$826,526.93 TOTAL

learning opportunities, advance student

FOR SCHOLARSHIPS AND EMERGENCY FUNDS

S T U D E N T S W H O R E C E I V E D F O U N DAT I O N S C H O L A R S H I P S C O M PA R E D T O STUDENTS WHO RECEIVED OTHER FIN A N CIA L A ID:

Moran went on to serve as an assistant athletic director at several area high schools before becoming the director of athletics at Argo Community High School in 2016, and then into her current position at Round Lake High School in 2019. She serves in leadership roles with several local and national athletic associations.

GPA 3.35 vs.

2.93

“People believed in me when I may not have deserved it and I continue to pay it forward,” said Moran. “My path set me on the course to where I am today, impacting the lives of countless young people in a positive way.”

28 CLC CONNECTS

1,119 AWARDS

Earned Credits 14

Course Success Rate 92%

vs.

9

vs.

74%

NON-PROFIT ORGANIZATION US POSTAGE

JUNE 2021

PAID

19351 W. Washington St., Grayslake, IL 60030-1198

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Volume 1, Issue 1 June 2021

Board of Trustees Amanda D. Howland, J.D. Chair Julie B. Shroka, M.A. Vice Chair

After a combined 71 years of experience governing College of Lake County while serving on the Board of Trustees, Richard A. Anderson and Dr. William M. Griffin received trustee emeritus status in April 2021. They join other trustee emeriti, Patricia Jones and Barbara D. Oilschlager. The Board also welcomed three newly elected members: Gerri Songer, Robert J. Tomei, Jr. and Paul G. Virgilio.

CLC CONNECTS

Torrie Mark Newsome, J.D. Secretary Gerri Songer, M.A. Matthew J. Stanton, J.D. Robert J. Tomei, Jr., J.D. Paul G. Virgilio, B.S., S.E., P.E. Daniel Blaine Student Trustee Lori Suddick, Ed.D. President

College of Lake County’s strategic plan is built on the foundation of a student-centered design framework focused on creating an ideal and equitable student experience for everyone.

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