CLC Connects Magazine - January 2024

JANUARY 2024

CLC CONNECTS

COVER: Natasha Phillips received a full-tuition Workforce Equity Initiative scholarship to earn a short-term credential in heating, ventilation and air conditioning so she can pursue work in a stable career field.

table of contents 02

Message from CLC President Dr. Lori Suddick

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Grand Opening in April 2024: Prairie at Brae Loch

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Congratulations, December 2023 Graduates

Access and Success for Students 03

Breaking Down Financial Barriers

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Access the Power of Technology – for Free

Strategic Use of Resources 07

Beyond the Greens

Community and Workforce Partnerships 08

Revolutionizing Lake County’s Manufacturing Landscape

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Engaging Community Voices in Sustainability Through the Arts

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Hitting the High Notes with CLC’s Music Faculty

Equity and Inclusion 12

A “Pop” of Color in the Halls

Teaching and Learning Excellence 14

Donation Gives Vital Boost to Fire Science Program

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The Prescription for Success

JANUARY 2024

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MESSAGE FROM CLC PRESIDENT DR. LORI SUDDICK These are exciting times at College of Lake County as dedicated staff and faculty advance efforts toward our vision to be a leader in providing

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innovative education and workforce solutions in partnership with our community. Evidence is emerging that demonstrates a steady climb toward improved student outcomes. As the climb toward excellence continues, it is important that we pause to celebrate achievements, share inspiring stories and convey the positive, student-focused energy that is flowing throughout CLC.

In this issue, you’ll learn about some of CLC’s innovations that are creating access to financial resources, building programs that lead to in-demand careers and cultivating opportunities for community members to celebrate the arts. You’ll read about students completing credentials without debt and with the support and education they need to take on their next challenge, whether they are transferring to a university or transitioning to a rewarding career that provides financial stability.

Just as students beam when they share details about their educational achievements, CLC faculty and staff light up when they describe the many approaches in action to support students. As CLC leans into a new year, I am proud to share this issue’s shining examples of CLC students, faculty, and staff, who are hard at work in cooperation with community and workforce partners to benefit all of Lake County.

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ACCESS AND SUCCESS FOR STUDENTS

breaking down financial barriers HOW CLC HELPS STUDENTS COMPLETE CREDENTIALS WITHOUT DEBT AND MEET THE SKILLED TALENT NEEDS OF THE LAKE COUNTY WORKFORCE

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ACCESS AND SUCCESS FOR STUDENTS

WHEN TYSLY BUTLER’S JOB OF ALMOST 20 YEARS WAS ELIMINATED IN WAUKEGAN, SHE WASN’T SURE HOW TO PROCEED. “HOW DO I SUPPORT MY FAMILY?” SHE THOUGHT. Butler decided to return to school to learn new skills to start her career working in the in-demand healthcare field of phlebotomy. But after making that decision, she faced a separate challenge: “How am I going to afford it?”

College of Lake County was the answer, she determined, thanks to the Workforce Equity Initiative (WEI) program, which focuses on removing barriers between students and their aspirations. For Butler, CLC’s WEI grant funds covered her tuition, fees and books for phlebotomy classes and provided stipends designed to cover costs such as transportation and childcare, while providing wrap-around support to ensure her academic progress.

“BEING PART OF THIS PROGRAM MEANT I WOULDN’T HAVE TO WORRY ABOUT HOW I WAS GOING TO AFFORD MY CLASSES,” BUTLER SAID. “IT EASED MY FINANCIAL BURDEN. THEY EVEN OFFERED RESOURCES THAT HELPED ME WITH TECHNOLOGICAL SHORTAGES AND FOOD INSECURITY.” Butler chose the phlebotomy program because she could complete it within four months and work in the field immediately. She received a job offer before she completed her clinicals.

Butler shared her experiences with attendees at CLC’s Fifth Annual State of the College Address, held at the Eleanor Murkey Community Center at the Lakeshore Student Center in October 2023. Butler acknowledged the support she received from CLC phlebotomy instructor Angela Norwood who helped her gain skills that have put her on a path of continued learning.

“BECAUSE OF CLC AND THE WEI PROGRAM, I AM NOW WORKING AT A HOSPITAL AS A PHLEBOTOMIST. I AM NOW COMPLETING MY BACHELOR’S IN SCIENCE AND PSYCHOLOGY AT UNIVERSITY OF WISCONSIN-PARKSIDE. IN A FEW YEARS, YOU CAN CALL ME DR. BUTLER.”

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ACCESS AND SUCCESS FOR STUDENTS

Tysly Butler (right) smiles with her Phlebotomy Instructor Angela Norwood at the State of the College.

Butler’s testimony reveals what is possible when determination meets opportunity. Her success reinforces CLC’s resolve to help clear the way for students to make education accessible, personalized, equitable and the completion of a credential achievable.

Like Butler, many students face competing priorities for their time and financial resources. With stipends like those offered

by CLC through WEI, scholarships and programs, students are able to decrease work hours to focus on academics and leave CLC without incurring debt.

“WITH AFFORDABLE OR FREE TUITION, SOME OF THE FINANCIAL STRESS ON STUDENTS IS REDUCED. IT IS OUR HOPE THAT, WITH THESE TYPES OF SUPPORTS, STUDENTS CAN STAY ENROLLED AT CLC AND REACH THEIR GOALS IN A TIMELY MANNER,” SAID ERIN FOWLES, CLC DEAN OF ENROLLMENT. Fowles shared that free or limited tuition boosts the success of CLC students. College data supports that those who receive financial aid complete more coursework, do better in their classes and are more likely to graduate.

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ACCESS AND SUCCESS FOR STUDENTS

CLC offers numerous scholarships with options available to all types of students. Three scholarships in particular draw a high level of interest:

• Metallica Scholars Initiative provides tuition and fees for students pursuing careers in technical career programs and is connected to the popular rock band Metallica through their All Within My Hands Foundation.

• Pipeline for the Advancement of the Healthcare Workforce Program (PATH) provides students with stipends for tuition, books, equipment and cost-of-living expenses.

• Early Childhood Access Consortium for Equity grant is designed to help build the workforce of early childhood educators in Illinois.

Director of Financial Aid Rey Gonzalez pointed out that, as part of ongoing efforts to help CLC students advance their education, CLC has simplified the scholarship application procedure. The result is an increased number of scholarship recipients, which means more students acquiring financial resources for their education.

“Students no longer have to complete several individual applications when applying for specific scholarships,” Gonzalez said. “Instead, CLC has a streamlined application process that allows students to apply for more than 100 scholarships.”

Christina Martinez, in her second year at CLC and on track to earn an associate degree, is achieving the kind of access that can happen when the right scholarship fulfills a student’s need. Martinez received the $1,000 Abel Rosiles Scholarship to help pay fall tuition.

“I have been alleviated of the financial stress of trying to figure out how to pay for my semester and still pay for bills and live comfortably on a day-to-day basis,” she said.

“CLC does a great job to provide all the resources possible to all of its students.”

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STRATEGIC USE OF RESOURCES

Beyond the greens Golfing in the spirit of scholarship fundraising The College of Lake County Foundation hosted its Scholarship Golf Classic on Sept. 18, 2023. Golf enthusiasts and corporate sponsors participate in this annual event that goes beyond the greens, serving a noble cause: providing scholarships to deserving students seeking higher education opportunities.

It’s a day filled with swings, putts, conversations with students and a sense of community, where participants know they are driving change.

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Golfers

More than

$135,000

raised for scholarships and grants

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Volunteers

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COMMUNITY AND WORKFORCE PARTNERSHIPS

CLC CONNECTS

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COMMUNITY AND WORKFORCE PARTNERSHIPS

Revolutionizing Lake County’s manufacturing landscape New alliance paves the way for collaboration

Lake County ranks second for manufacturing among all counties in Illinois, generating $48 billion in output each year thanks in part to its skilled workforce.

The industry is always seeking new talent, however, making collaborative and systemic strategies is critical to meet future workforce needs.

When it comes to training, College of Lake County is a key partner in filling the gaps.

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COMMUNITY AND WORKFORCE PARTNERSHIPS

Led by College of Lake County and supported by a $900,000 federal grant procured by Congressman Brad Schneider, a new manufacturing alliance will be launched to address the in-demand skilled talent pipeline needs in the northeast region of Illinois. The regional manufacturing alliance will convene companies, educational and workforce development partners to address root cause issues by creating systemic solutions and sharing resources.

“By working together, members of the alliance might find software solutions for supply-chain issues or bring to bear a resource that one member couldn’t afford, but the group could,” said Vice President of Community and Workforce Partnerships Ali O’Brien. “Our hope is to better connect manufacturers for a collective impact and to generate innovation. We expect through convening they’ll be able to identify pain points and collectively find solutions.”

A full-time director is slated to join CLC in January to onboard inaugural board members, who will guide the launch and structure of the alliance. By the end of the grant, the alliance will launch a paid-membership model that will sustain and continue to grow the alliance.

Dennis Kessler – the president of Midwest Family Business Advisors and a passionate advocate of supporting students and apprenticeships – is a big proponent of the alliance.

“Northern Illinois is a center of the manufacturing industry, which would be greatly enhanced by the establishment of a communications network that would conveniently connect owners and CEOs with each other,” Kessler said. “This network would facilitate the opportunity for these business leaders to learn from each other when facing similar problems.”

The inspiration for the model comes from a well-established manufacturing alliance CLC President Dr. Lori Suddick was involved in while working at Northeast Wisconsin Technical College in Green Bay as vice president of learning, prior to her transition to College of Lake County. The Northeast Wisconsin (NEW) Manufacturing Alliance unites employers, educators, workforce development, chambers of commerce and state organizations under the vision to ensure every northeast Wisconsin manufacturer has the talent it needs. Replicating a successful model that has proven positive outcomes creates an opportunity to leverage the 10

CLC CONNECTS

NEW Manufacturing Alliance’s experience and contextualize the design to meet northeast Illinois’ talent needs.

“We’re trying to take the evidence-based model for a manufacturing alliance and apply it here.

We don’t have to reinvent the wheel.

We can use lessons learned.”

- Ali O’Brien

rewarding careers and family-sustaining living wages.

“For the next 10 to 15 years, the biggest problem facing Northern Illinois manufacturers is recruiting and retaining good talent,” Kessler said. “The ATC can be an excellent source of manufacturing talent – not only those who possess the manufacturing skills required but who also have the work ethic that is desired.”

And on the alliance side, O’Brien can’t wait to get started.

The funds will also be allocated to upskill faculty in specialized industry-relevant certifications and to acquire the equipment necessary to teach curriculum in the certifications. Students will be able to launch a career path in industrial technology or welding and fabrication, through direct financial support for the cost of training and apprenticeships. Flexible learning options and stackable short-term workforce credentials are available that lead to

“What excites me is having a formal way to sustain our relationships with regional manufacturers to develop the talent pipeline and pivot when we need to,” said O’Brien, who pointed out the manufacturing alliance could inspire similar groups focused on IT and healthcare. “Though we have relationships program by program at CLC, this collective can become an industry voice in Lake County.”

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COMMUNITY AND WORKFORCE PARTNERSHIPS

Only a portion of the $900,000 will be used to launch the alliance, while the remaining resources will be invested in expanding the state of art manufacturing programs. CLC will expand its Advanced Technology Center (ATC) to incorporate programs on critical workforce needs such as cybersecurity, data analytics, mechatronics and robotics.

Opened in 2022 and located in Gurnee, the 70,000-squarefoot ATC currently prepares students for careers in industrial technology, welding and fabrication.

EQUITY AND INCLUSION

A POP!

of color in the halls

New art installation at Lakeshore Campus Chicago artist Jason Messinger loves to make beautiful pieces people can easily appreciate. As students walk through the halls of the Lakeshore Student Center, Messinger hopes his series of art installations brings them uplifting energy.

“My intent is for the student body to feel very joyful and happy when they see the work,” Messinger said. “I want them to feel like they’re reflected and celebrated in a way that’s very positive.”

Messinger was chosen for the project through the Illinois Art-In-Architecture program, which funds art purchased to enhance state-funded construction or renovation projects such as the Lakeshore Student Center. Artists apply with their ideas, hoping to be selected by the jury assigned to the project.

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EQUITY AND INCLUSION

For the Lakeshore Campus installations, Messinger proposed creating murals out of ceramic tiles. The art installations will span three floors, with each floor featuring a different theme and design. Messinger drew inspiration from the Waukegan community, most notably the Latinx population.

“I really wanted to do something that spoke to the community,” Messinger said. “The second-floor mural, Onomatopoeia/Onomatopeya, is made up of onomatopoeia words, half in English and half in Spanish.” Onomatopoeia words, like pop or buzz, sound like they are spelled.

The third-floor installation, titled Sun Kissed, is a series of concentric circles.

Messinger chose circles because they symbolize connectedness and unity, plus circles are used in cultures all over the world. Healthcare classes are held on the fourth floor of the Student Center, so Messinger designed a mural of flowers, titled Blossoms, a universal symbol of healing.

Messinger likes having his art installed in public buildings because it gives him the chance to share it with more people.

“One of the reasons I apply for public projects is that the work stays up for a long time,” he said. “Tons of people will see it through the decades.”

Scan this to watch a video of Messinger creating the art for Lakeshore Campus in his studio.

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TEACHING AND LEARNING EXCELLENCE

DONATION GIVES VITAL BOOST TO FIRE SCIENCE TECHNOLOGY PROGRAM Having highly trained professional firefighters is important for a community, but it can be an expensive program for community colleges to offer and costly to students who seek the training. A $550,000 donation from an anonymous donor to the Fire Science Technology program at CLC will ease some of the financial strain.

Becoming a qualified firefighter requires students to complete courses on the path to an associate degree.

In addition, students must acquire equipment and uniforms, as well as take tests and do background checks. With $450,000 from the donation going toward these types of ancillary expenses, CLC will remove financial barriers for fire science students.

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The fire academy admits 16 students each year. The donated funds will support multiple student groups for a number of years.

“We have a 95 percent placement rate for students who come out of this program,” said Fire Science Technology Instructor Jeff Howell. “The donor clearly saw the value in having students go through this program. And quite honestly, we’re happy to be able to alleviate some of that financial pressure for them.”

This education is what sets CLC fire science graduates apart from most other applicants to fire departments. While at CLC, students learn essential skills such as fire suppression, emergency medical services and rescue techniques.

CLC graduates apply for jobs ready to work, having completed their fire academy training. Having firefighters who can immediately start working in the field is crucial given the increasing demand for firefighters throughout the country. “I chose to start at CLC because getting my education done in the two-year program instead of going through the academy and then having to get that education elsewhere is a huge benefit,” said current student James Doron.

“In addition to learning in the fire academy, I was also trained as an emergency medical technician. Everything is laid out in such a way that I can go out in the field and be a firefighter, or I could follow another path. You’ve got everything you need in one place.”

Lake County fire departments demonstrate their deep appreciation for CLC’s program, often donating training equipment and helping in other ways. CLC’s Fire Science Technology program is unique due to a collaborative relationship with the Grayslake Fire Department. Faculty facilitate the program at the Grayslake fire station that is located on CLC’s Grayslake campus.

“By going to CLC, I am able to not only start my career but expand it later,” said fire science graduate Jonathan Albris.

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TEACHING AND LEARNING EXCELLENCE

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on i t p i cr es r P The s es c c u S for

lways interested in studying to be a pharmacy technician, Bridgith Garcia was excited when CLC launched a program at the Southlake Campus in Vernon Hills in 2021. She was one of the first students to graduate from the program and now works in a high-level entry position in Glenview at a specialty pharmacy, one that focuses on high-cost, high-touch medication for complex diseases.

“I’m earning more money working at a specialty pharmacy than I would at a retail one,” Garcia said. “It’s a good pay for the amount of experience I have.”

Garcia was able to start her current position thanks in part to what she learned in the pharmacy technician program.

One of her classmates, Jocelyn Gonzalez, works with her at the same pharmacy.

“I didn’t know a position like this existed until I was in the program,” Gonzalez said. “It’s a great Monday-Friday job that allows me to pay my bills and help my mom out.”

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The role of pharmacy technicians has changed in the last few years. Pharmacy technicians’ responsibilities now may include vaccine administration, for example, a task that was traditionally done by other healthcare staff. CLC students are being trained in updated tasks, and their hands-on experience in these areas is one reason why graduates are appealing candidates for both traditional and nontraditional pharmacy positions.

“The level of education in the program, the network and connections that CLC has in the industry help students like Bridgith and Jocelyn get higher-level jobs,” said Pharmacy Technician Instructor Dr. Derek Leiter. “This allows a better entry pathway for students into nontraditional and more experienced roles.”

With the role of pharmacy technicians growing, so is the demand. Shortages within the field mean that students are easily able to find jobs upon graduation. Students can complete the program in as little as 11 months and test to become nationally certified.

TEACHING AND LEARNING EXCELLENCE

CLC’s pharmacy technician program was seventh in the state to be accredited by both the American Society of HealthSystem Pharmacists and the Accreditation Council for Pharmacy Education, which aligns with a requirement for students planning to take the national exam.

To allow students to get broader experience while doing rotations, CLC is engaging new advisory partners. CLC recently added Advocate Condell Medical Center in Libertyville and Lake Behavioral Hospital in Waukegan, where three students have already been hired for jobs.

Students completing the program have demonstrated great success. As of October 2023, the pass rate for CLC students taking the national exam is 100 percent. Also, most of the students in Garcia’s cohort who finished in August 2023 secured jobs before graduation.

“Thanks to our connections in the pharmacy industry, our advisory board includes not only pharmacists, but folks who are leaders within the pharmacy practice, including directors of hospitals and state board of pharmacy members,” Leiter said. “Our curriculum is not just crafted for pharmacy knowledge, but also includes key skills related to what leaders are reporting to me and to the college.”

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COMMUNITY AND WORKFORCE PARTNERSHIPS

ENGAGING COMMUNITY VOICES IN

SUSTAINABILITY THROUGH

THE ARTS When you think about climate problems such as global warming and pollution, the arts and humanities might not be the first solutions that come to mind. Yet, they can play a vital role in protecting and preserving our environment.

Voices of Lake County is an interdisciplinary group founded three years ago that uses the arts and humanities to foster awareness of important social and sustainability issues in Lake County and beyond.

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COMMUNITY AND WORKFORCE PARTNERSHIPS

Lake County’s population is incredibly diverse in terms of demographics and personal economic levels. Residents may not often hear stories from people who live near them but who may lead different lives than their own. Through the universal language of the arts, Voices of Lake County strives to expand opportunities for people from all backgrounds to share their perspectives.

“Through storytelling and the arts, we can better understand how humans are intricately connected to nature and spread awareness of ways we can live more sustainable, just and socially conscious lives,” said English instructor Laura Otto.

In its third year now, Voices of Lake County is steadfast about outreach and providing opportunities for community members to express themselves.

“Our mission is to call attention to the diverse voices across the region and create space for dialogue and expression around the theme for each year,” said Digital Media and Design Instructor Cristen Leifheit.

Previous themes included The Postcards Project, which explored small-scale art and storytelling, and Lake County@Work, an exploration of work and labor through the lens of the humanities. This year’s theme is Sustainable Lake County.

Voices of Lake County connects with community members by offering free workshops held in local spaces including libraries. These workshops are typically led by CLC faculty who plan activities according to the theme.

To provide a platform where the art created in these workshops can be displayed or performed, Voices of Lake County holds a free end-of-year showcase, spotlighting people who may not have ever had an opportunity to present their work. All mediums are welcome, whether dance, painting or writing. Both the workshops and showcase are open to the public.

Community partnerships are a welcome outcome of these events. Voices of Lake County has worked with the Grayslake Performing Arts Collaborative, which created a performance for last year’s showcase. In November 2023, Three Brothers Theatre in Waukegan hosted environmental rap activist Joey FineRhyme.

In addition to community involvement, students and faculty also participate.

Numerous art classes, including ones like environmental writing taught by Otto, have their classwork tailored toward the year’s theme.

Come see the showcase at Grayslake Campus this spring. Community partners are welcome throughout the year.

Voices of Lake County participants wrote haiku on seeded paper to focus on serenity, symmetry and the balance of nature at a fall event in the Japanese Garden.

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ACCESS AND SUCCESS FOR STUDENTS

Access the power of technology – for free

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ACCESS AND SUCCESS FOR STUDENTS

“The world runs on technology,” Anderson said. “There’s no more pen and paper, so I need this computer to send emails, communicate, create data sheets, budget and whatever else I could possibly need.

With this laptop, I will be able to continue to have this technology available even after I leave CLC. It will help me in my teaching career with my students.”

When students gather their back-to-school essentials as the semester starts, computers are usually a big-ticket item at the top of the list, but many students are challenged to find the financial resources to afford them. Thanks to a generous donation from Meridian Group International, a technology and equipment finance solutions provider, 100 CLC students were able to kick off the semester with a free laptop computer.

This free laptop program was made possible by CLC partnering with Meridian, a global business headquartered in Deerfield, that in addition to offering equipment financing for a broad range of industries, brings solutions to companies with information technology needs, including leasing laptop equipment.

This opportunity means a lot to students like Kendra Anderson, who started taking classes at CLC in fall 2021 to study elementary education and Spanish so she can become a teacher in a dual-language classroom and support her four children.

Technology is critical to her success. Anderson used to borrow a laptop and Wi-Fi hotspot from the library to attend online classes and do her schoolwork. She picked up her free computer provided by Meridian before the semester started.

Want to see more?

Scan this code and watch the video:

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COMMUNITY AND WORKFORCE PARTNERSHIPS

HITTING THE HIGH NOTES “Music can change the world because it can change people.” - Bono, U2 Music has an intrinsic value in enriching lives. It invites collaboration and creativity, builds connections between cultures and communities and promotes inclusion. Here at CLC, there are many opportunities for students and community members to express themselves through music programs, whether you sing or play an instrument.

This fall, CLC welcomed Mitch Lewis as a new full-time music faculty member who brings not only a wealth of experience as an educator and choir conductor, but an infectious enthusiasm for building community. He’s also hard at work recruiting potential singers and advocating for the educational value of the choral program.

Lewis is focused on strengthening the choirs, as he actively renews the vocal ensembles by inviting students and community members to participate.

As an educator, Lewis aims to take the intimidation factor out of music participation, guiding singers to embrace challenges and discovery, all within an encouraging, welcoming environment.

“My goal is to create pipelines — to educate and teach students strong fundamentals, so they can in turn feel purposeful, realize their value and ultimately, become the next leaders. The hope is that they will subsequently give back to the community as future band directors, orchestra teachers, church choir musicians, you name it,” says Lewis.

In addition to the choirs, the instrumental music programs at CLC continue to flourish. Led for nearly 20 years by Dr. Michael Flack, there is the open-to-all Concert Band (directed by Mike Madonia); the audition-only Wind Ensemble (directed by Flack) and the Monday

• Choir of Lake County is a group of community members interested in a fun, communal outlet where they can express themselves while being challenged with a diverse repertoire.

• CLC Singers features mainly students new to music, providing a program where they can learn sight reading and music fundamentals.

• Chamber Choir is an audition-only ensemble where prior music experience is required, and a more challenging repertoire is explored.

• Gospel Choir is an ethnically diverse group that performs traditional, contemporary and spiritual gospel music. No audition is required.

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Music Instructor Mitch Lewis

and Tuesday night Jazz Ensembles (directed by Flack and Joe Ott, respectively).

Flack is dedicated to creating a welcoming, compassionate atmosphere for his musicians. Paraphrasing Stephen Covey, Flack believes that “putting a deposit into the emotional bank account can pay dividends later.” With this mantra, he creates a learning space that allows a positive outlet for creativity and personal enrichment while being a place where musicians can learn from each other, feel the joy of performing and invest in making music together.

While striving toward this shared excellence, Flack thoughtfully selects the musical repertoire for concerts to ensure both band members feel engaged and the community enjoys the program. With the assistance and expertise of Wind Ensemble member and retired ad exec, Steven Loerch, the Music department faculty also focuses on community

outreach at the grassroots level, cultivating mutually beneficial partnerships and offering special performances for senior living communities and other organizations.

The arts thrive at CLC. “We champion the belief that the arts have a unique power to reflect, unite and transform the world by bringing diverse voices and experiences together through shared storytelling and celebration,” says Dean of the Communication, Humanities and Fine Arts Division Dr. Sheldon Walcher.

GET INVOLVED In addition to these music programs, there are many ways students and community members can learn about and showcase their creativity at CLC — by enrolling in courses and programs in literature, creative writing, communication studies, digital media and design, philosophy, the humanities, world languages and the visual and performing arts.

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COMMUNITY AND WORKFORCE PARTNERSHIPS

WITH CLC’S MUSIC FACULTY

Grand Opening April 13, 2024

“Prairie at Brae Loch is the result of collaboration within the college, with the CLC Foundation and with the Lake County Forest Preserves – a true representation of the word ‘community’ in community college.”

- CLC Trustee, Paul Virgilio

“Partnerships like these, whether for economic development or education, are groundbreaking.

I’m so taken with how the space has changed since I last saw it. It’s truly beautiful. This is a great thing for the two entities – College of Lake County and the Lake County Forest Preserves – and for the people of Lake County.”

- Lake County Board Chair Sandy Hart

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art of a 20-year agreement with the Lake County Forest Preserves, CLC’s Prairie at Brae Loch, a student-managed restaurant, has moved into the former Brae Loch Golf Club banquet facility. Renovations completed over the past several months have enhanced and expanded the kitchen to create a state-of-the-art teaching and learning space.

The restaurant features a charming dining room and bar with a beautiful view. It is entirely operated by the Hospitality and Culinary Management academic program at CLC. Beginning in 2024, students will prepare and serve breakfast, lunch and dinner to patrons at select times on rotating weekdays throughout the academic year.

A holiday dinner was held in November to celebrate the partnerships that made this culinary facility possible.

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Prairie at Brae Loch fosters innovative partnerships with local employers and an inviting dining experience for community members. The hands-on, learning-lab environment allows students to gain outstanding experience for a career in the hospitality sector.

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Congratulations!

Jordan Esparza

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CLC CONNECTS

DECEMBER 2023 GRADUATES

JANUARY 2024

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QUOTE ME! “I was staying stagnant, I couldn’t really move up from where I was. In just one year, I’m going to be able to move into something better for me and my family.”

– Miguel Ramirez “CLC was close to home. While I wanted to leave home immediately after high school, I wasn’t ready yet.

And CLC just seemed like the perfect place for me to gain my independence while still living at home.”

– Za’Tozia Duffie

“I wish people knew how friendly everyone is here at CLC and how amazing of an education opportunity you have at a cost that you can afford. There are a lot of schools out there that cost a lot of money because college is expensive. CLC is affordable. It’s local.

It makes education doable. And for me with four children, it has made my education possible.”

– Kendra Anderson

“While I love the space and equipment, it was the instructors that kept me at CLC. They helped make sure I learned the right way, and I had fun doing it.”

– Kyle Thorne

19351 W. Washington St., Grayslake, IL 60030-1198 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 3, Issue 2 January 2024

FOLLOW CLC ONLINE:

www.clcillinois.edu

Board of Trustees Julie B. Shroka, M.A. Chair Torrie Mark Newsome, J.D. Vice Chair Paul G. Virgilio, B.S., S.E., P.E. Secretary

YOU’RE INVITED APRIL 13: COMMUNITY OPEN HOUSE + MAKER FAIRE + PRAIRIE GRAND OPENING

Allena Barbato, J.D., L.M.F.T.

Visit any of the CLC campuses on Saturday, April 13 to

William M. Griffin, Ed.D.

see what CLC offers students and community members.

Amanda D. Howland, J.D. Gerri Songer, M.A. Daniel Blaine Student Trustee Lori Suddick, Ed.D. President Trustees Emeriti Richard A. Anderson, J.D. William M. Griffin, Ed.D. (2021-2023) Patricia Jones, M.Ed. Barbara D. Oilschlager, M.Ed.

Would you like to tour the Advanced Technology Center?

Want to sample food at the grand opening of CLC’s new Prairie at Brae Loch student-managed restaurant? Everyone is welcome to learn more about CLC at the Community Open House from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Also, explore your inner inventor and discover the latest creations at Maker Faire Lake County at the Grayslake Campus Gym. April 13 will be a great day to be a part of the Lancer CommUNITY.