2021 College Changes Everything Conference

2021 CCE: Fostering Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging for
the Success of All Learners

Online – July 12-July 16, 2021

The 2021 College Changes Everything® conference theme was Fostering Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging for the Success of All Learners.  Learners from underserved and historically underrepresented populations are not just experiencing problems directly resulting from the pandemic, but the pandemic has also elevated existing inequities. It’s critical we take steps now to examine and address the short and long-term outcomes of our policies, programs, and structures, as well as grapple with key issues and the tensions they raise as we strive to meet the needs of all learners. The CCE conference provideds an opportunity for stakeholders to identify actionable solutions to strengthen our work to increase education and career opportunities for all learners-- allowing them to contribute to stronger communities and a robust and more inclusive workforce and economy.  The conference also supports the state’s Goal 2025 – to increase the proportion of adults in Illinois with high quality degrees and postsecondary credentials to 60% by the year 2025.

While we missed the in-person, face-to-face interactions that have grown to be a key part of the event, we were pleased to still be able to share information and resources from state and national experts that can help you in your work in supporting student success. The conference was free to all, and all conference materials continue to be available to all, simply by clicking on the links below.

Note: If you registered and attended the online conference via the Whova platform, you can still access the Whova conference web app for up to three months and the Whova conference mobile app for up to six months after the conference.


Recorded Sessions

Conference Kick Off and State Agency Panel: Educating During the Pandemic

Join Deputy Governor Jesse Ruiz and leadership from the Illinois Board of Higher Education, Illinois Community College Board, Illinois State Board of Education, and the Illinois Student Assistance Commission as they discuss the challenges and solutions experienced in educating students in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic. They will also review how each of the State education agencies shifted their work to better support students across the P-20 system in light of COVID-19 and plans for the upcoming school year.

Speakers: Jesse Ruiz (Moderator) Deputy Governor for Education, Office of the Illinois Governor
Ginger Ostro (Panelist) Executive Director, Illinois Board of Higher Education
Brian Durham (Panelist) Executive Director, ICCB
Dr. Ernesto Matias (Panelist) Chief Education Officer, IL State Board of Education
Eric Zarnikow (Speaker) Executive Director, Illinois Student Assistance Commission

Illinois' Division of Rehabilitation: How Rehabilitation Services Help Students with Disabilities Transition to College and Work

The Illinois Department of Human Services, Division of Rehabilitation Services is a hidden gem in the world of post secondary funding and support. Many people are unfamiliar with disabling conditions that may qualify for services. This presentation will talk about what someone needs to qualify for services and what we can offer with and without counting family income. Most people will be surprised that they or a family member may be able to receive services that can help them to reach their employment goals, including college.

Speakers: Aletha Alexander (Speaker) Supervisor, Bureau of Field Services, DHS-DRS
Kim Pieczynski (Speaker) State of Illinois

IL Div of Rehabilitation Svs

Cultivating Inclusive Workplaces: How OMD is educating workforce partners and students in creating more equitable earn and learn experiences

This session will explain how One Million Degrees designed workforce readiness curriculum focused on identity and soft skills for its Earn and Learn programs. With staff and student input, OMD and a curriculum consultant designed manager and student modules for in-person and virtual use. These modules begin to identify how to make more equitable workplaces. Takeaways include a draft list of workshops for your students and partners in promoting positive, inclusive transitions to new workplaces!

Speakers: Erika Ehmann (Speaker) Sr. Manager of Workforce and Corporate Partnerships, One Million Degrees
PuraCarina Gonzalez (Speaker) Director of Innovation and Strategic Initiatives, One Million Degrees
Gabino Sanchez Jr. (Speaker) Career Advancement Coordinator, One Million Degrees
Steffani Zavala (Speaker) Medical Assistant Pathway Program Career Advancement, One Million Degrees

Cultivating Inclusive Workplaces

The Purpose of PaCE and Support for Schools

This July marks the fifth year since the Illinois Postsecondary and Career Expectations (PaCE) Framework was adopted by the state’s education agencies. While there is no mandate on schools to adopt PaCE, the Illinois PaCE framework offers schools a tool for structuring their college and career readiness efforts to ensure that students have the information needed to make the most informed decision possible about life after high school. Participants will gain an understanding of how a PaCE-aligned framework can provide flexibility, accountability, and sustainability to complement the work already being done with their students and how ISAC can assist schools in the adoption and implementation of a PaCE-aligned framework.

Speakers: Sara Espinosa (Speaker) Manager, Professional Development, Illinois Student Assistance Commission
Kalene Heaton (Speaker) ISAC

The Purpose of PaCE and Support for Schools

College Accessibility for Students Experiencing Homelessness During COVID -19

Despite facing many challenges such as deep poverty and instability that have been exacerbated by COVID-19, many youth experiencing homelessness desire to pursue careers that require postsecondary education. This session will discuss financial aid support for unaccompanied homeless students and upcoming legislation including the College Hunger Bill and College Accessibility Bill that provides necessary supports for students to access and succeed in college.

Speakers: Alyssa Phillips (Speaker) Education Attorney, Chicago Coalition for the Homeless
Niya Kelly (Speaker) Director of State Legislative Policy, Equity and Transformation, Chicago Coalition for the Homeless

College Accessability for Students Exp Homelessness During COVID-19

Advocacy in Action

Advocacy in Action Workshops empower Illinois students to advocate for causes they believe in. The free, accessible online workshops teach students how to effectively lead a meeting with a politician and other skills for leading advocacy campaigns. In this presentation, you will participate in an interactive activity that illustrates what students can learn; hear from students and representatives who believe in the power of student advocacy; and learn more about how to share and implement the workshops within student communities.

Speakers: Corinne Kodama (Speaker) Policy Analyst, Women Employed
Lily Rocha (Speaker) Midwest Regional Director, Young Invincibles

Advocacy in Action

Empowering Students with Skills, Confidence, Networks, and Experiences to Secure a Strong Job after College Graduation

Before COVID-19, only 30% of the 1.3 million low-income or first-generation college students enrolled each year graduated and secured a strong first job or entered graduate school. This session will explore strategies that have helped Braven graduates achieve strong jobs even amid a pandemic: providing students with a sense of belonging through a cohort model, a safe environment to develop and practice career-readiness skills, and coaching to build goals and agency towards reaching them.

Speakers: Chun Ying Wang (Speaker) Director of Data & Strategy, Braven

Empowering Students with Skills, Confidence, Networks, and Experiences

First-Generation Narratives: Creating a Culture of Belonging

This interactive session will follow National Louis University’s First-Generation for College (FG4C) initiative as a case study for student-centered programming and the power of storytelling. The learning objective of this session is to explore what it means to hold a first-generation college student identity and what university staff can do to create a culture of belonging on campus.

Speakers: Samantha Rivera (she/her/ella) (Moderator) Student Success Coach, National Louis University
Andrea Avila (Panelist) Student, National Louis University
Joy Bahena (Panelist) Student, National Louis University
Asael Villa (Panelist) Student, National Louis University

First Generation Narratives-Creating a Culture of Belonging

Identity as an Asset in STEM: How community programs can support student diversity within the field of STEM

Join the Illinois Science and Technology Institute and University of Illinois at Chicago Associate Professor, Aixa Alfonso, in an exploration of designed experiences to develop a more inclusive community of STEM talent (or practitioners). This session will cover high school and collegiate initiatives to strengthen student identity and prioritize diversity as an asset within STEM professions.

Speakers: Aixa Alfonso (Speaker) Associate Professor, University of Illinois at Chicago
Becky Goldberg (Speaker) Senior Manager of STEM Programming, Illinois Science and Technology Institute
Emily Cooper (Speaker) Director, Illinois Science & Technology Institute
Veronica Arreola (Speaker) Director, Latin@s Gaining Access to Networks for Advancement in Science (HSI STEM), University of Illinois at Chicago

Identity as an Asset in STEM

Workshop on Strengthening Collaborative Data Capacity

This workshop will provide attendees with tools to figure out what data can help answer the questions they have about their community or work and what to do with the information once they obtain it. Attendees will learn about data resources available to them and how to select and deploy easy-to-use data protocols to inform their collective impact efforts. They will then practice adapting and using a protocol in a virtual context.

Speakers: Emily Rusca Director of State Policy & Strategy Education Systems Center at Northern Illinois University
Charlie Rosemond Data & Outcomes Manager Education Systems Center at NIU
Helen Zhang Senior Policy & Analytics Assocaite Advance Illinois

Workshop on Strengthening Collaborative Data Capacity

Workshop on Strengthening Collaborative Data Capacity-Protocol Packet

Building Pipelines from High School to Career

There are many pathways students have available to follow in their life after high school. Attend this session to learn more about the benefits and opportunities of apprenticeships as viable and rewarding career paths. Working together, we can build a bridge between education and hiring that teaches our students through hands-on training the skills employers are looking for and helps employers find the right talent for their organizations. In the session, Fulton High School will share how they partnered with local community colleges and businesses to start a welding apprenticeship to provide a pipeline from high school to local manufacturers.

Speakers: Darryl Hogue (Speaker) supt, River Bend CUSD 2
Ronald Lawless (Speaker) Youth Engagement Manager, HIRE360 Chicago
Bob Gosch (Speaker) Fulton High School Principal, River Bend CUSD 2

Building Pipelines from High School to Career

Addressing Food and Housing Insecurities Among Incoming College Students

This session will address food and housing insecurities among UIC college students and the university's response to addressing those needs. First, we will present data that assess these basic needs among first-year and transfer students. Next, we will describe established and new practices to support students with food and housing insecurities, including those during the current pandemic.

Speakers: Sue Farruggia (Speaker) Assistant Vice Chancellor, University of Illinois at Chicago
Annette Wright (Speaker) Associate Dean of Students, University of Illinois at Chicago
Amy Chou (Speaker) Pantry Manager, University of Illinois at Chicago Wellness Center

Addressing Food and Housing Insecurities Among Incoming College Students

Micro-Internships & Adult Learners: The Surprising Benefits of Remote Work During a Pandemic

In this session, we share findings about how our new micro-internship model was advantageous for Adult Studies learners. Given the delicate juggling act many of these students engage in – combining paid work, classes, an internship and possibly family life – we found several things were helpful in creating a successful experience. Surprisingly, in the midst of a pandemic, we found that students benefited from remote internships, a topic that we will explore further in this session.

Speakers: Rebecca Burwell (Speaker) Faculty, Chicago Semester/Trinity Christian College
Hannah Kiefer (Speaker) Coordinator of Internship Placements & Alumni Engagement, Chicago Semester

Micro-Internships & Adult Learners-The Surprising Benefits of Remote Work During a Pandemic

Supporting Student Success and Retention through In-Class Support Programs

We will focus on two Triton College programs that support student success and retention through in-class support, the Peer Mentoring Collaborative and Virtual Navigators. These programs allow opportunities for participants to learn about the in-class experience, offer their expertise in the classroom, and take their learnings to their roles outside of the classroom. You will discover more about these programs, hear from staff and student participants, and learn how to develop similar initiatives.

Speakers: Hilary Meyer (Speaker) Dean of Academic Success, Triton College
Christina Hunt (Speaker) Student Success Strategist, Triton College
Vez Osmani (Speaker) CAAS Coordinator, Triton College

Supporting Student Success and Retention

Postsecondary and Career Exploration for Illinois High School Seniors: in the Palm of Your Hand

The State Board of Education (ISBE) has partnered with the Illinois Department of Employment Security (IDES) and Illinois Student Assistance Commission (ISAC) to build a smartphone-enabled web-based portal for Illinois High School students to explore postsecondary education and career options (www.ilhighschool2career.com) . The information in this portal reflects actual education and career outcomes from a decade of Illinois students and is available based on demographic characteristics, academic performance, post-secondary learning pathways, and career jobs. Session participants will present the tool, highlight unique student career outcomes, and discuss the statewide rollout strategy to Illinois high schools.

Speakers: Brenda Dixon (Speaker) Research and Evaluation Officer, Illinois State Board of Education
George Putnam (Speaker) Director Labor Market Information, IL Dept of Employment Security
Greg Bilobran (Speaker) Deputy Director, IT, ISAC

Postsecondary and Career Exploration

Higher Education Strategic Plan for a Thriving Illinois

The Illinois Board of Higher Education, in cooperation with the Illinois Community College Board and the Illinois Student Assistance Commission, has developed a 10-year strategic plan for higher education. This strategic planning process is designed to address systemic inequities that have affected Illinois’ postsecondary outcomes, the needs of the state’s economy, and postsecondary attainment. The vision is for Illinois to have an equitable, accessible, innovative, nimble, and aligned higher education ecosystem that ensures individuals, families, and communities across the state thrive.

Speakers: Ginger Ostro (Speaker) Executive Director, Illinois Board of Higher Education
Stephanie Bernoteit (Moderator) Executive Deputy Director, Illinois Board of Higher Education
Zaldwaynaka ("Z") Scott, Esq. (Panelist) President, Chicago State University
Dr. Jonathan "Josh" Bullock (Panelist) President, Lake Land College
Dr. Austin Lane (Panelist) Chancellor, Southern Illinois University Carbondale

Keynote-Higher Education Strategic Plan for a Thriving Illinois

The Risk and Protective Factors Impacting the Educational Attainment of Foster Youth

In this session we will examine the intersecting identities of youth in foster care, given the disproportionality of black and brown families in the child welfare system, and how their trauma experiences result in the development of both risk factors and protective factors. With a specific eye toward post-secondary attainment, we discuss asset based programming that can bolster students' strengths and mitigate risk.

Speakers: Jasmine Young-Paulhill (Speaker) Program Manager, Foster Progress
Kate Danielson (Speaker) Executive Director, Foster Progress
Rachel Pruess (Speaker) Program Manager, Foster Progress

The Risk and Protective Factors

From Plan to Practice: Lessons Learned from the First Year of Campus Equity Plan Implementation through the Illinois Equity in Attainment Initiative

This presentation will highlight lessons learned from the first year of campus equity plan implementation at the College of Lake County and Roosevelt University. Additionally, this presentation will highlight how the Partnership for College Completion supported them and other ILEA partners during the first year of equity plan implementation. Presenters will discuss how institutions reorganized their equity teams for implementation, share updates on equity plan strategies, describe how ILEA partner coaching has evolved, and highlight new programs that were created to support equity plan implementation. This session is designed to help institutions that are interested in closing gaps in degree completion for Black, Latinx and Pell-eligible students on their campuses.

Speakers: Julian Williams (Speaker) Equity Program Manager, Partnership for College Completion
Nick Branson (Speaker) Director, Student Success Strategy, College of Lake County
Jamar Orr (Speaker) Vice President of Student Affairs and Dean of Students, Roosevelt University

From Plan to Practice-Lessons Learned

Engaging Families for College and Career Readiness

Engaging families is an essential strategy in supporting college and career readiness. Many community-based organizations and out-of-school time programs are family engagement experts because they are located in the communities, offer flexible timing, and accomodate family needs. Join this session to learn the strategies for engaging families in setting studets on the path to being college and career ready!

Speakers: Susan Stanton (Speaker) Network Lead, ACT Now
Emma Spencer (Speaker) Youth Development Associate, ACT Now
Emma Vibber (Moderator) Quality & PD Specialist, ACT Now
Lesley Fischer Chapman (Speaker) Program Coordinator, ACT Now
HannaMarie Pearl Hohener (Speaker) ACT Now Policy and Communications Intern, ACT Now
Bridget Smith (Speaker) ACT Now Policy and Communications Intern, ACT Now
Tona Martinez (Speaker) ACT Now Policy and Communications Intern, ACT Now

Engaging Families for College and Career Readiness

Increasing Access and Success for Underrepresented Students in STEM and the Health Sciences

As the second largest non-governmental employer serving one of the most challenged parts of the city of Chicago, Rush University Medical Center is taking a contemporary approach to the perennial problem of equitable access to education and employment opportunities. This session will cover promising practices of the Rush Education and Career Hub’s “building a best-in-class pipeline to STEM and healthcare careers for underrepresented groups” approach to education and training for post-secondary students. Participants will receive promising practices for creating student-centered, community-engaged learning environments built on foundations of experiential learning, academic enrichment, and the most effective evidence-based teaching, learning, and assessment strategies.

Speakers: Angela Freeman (Speaker) Analyst, Rush Education and Career Hub, Rush University Medical Center
Rukiya Curvey Johnson (Speaker) Rush Education and Career Hub - Executive Director, Rush University Medical Center
Natalia Gallegos (Speaker) Program Manager of Strategic Initiatives, Rush University Medical Center

Increasing Access & Success

Providing a Lifeline: Supporting First-Generation & Low-Income Students through Emergency Funds

First-generation and low-income college students’ persistence depends on access to financial resources beyond financial aid. This session provides information on the Chicago Scholars student emergency fund, available to their college Scholars experiencing a financial crisis affecting their ability to persist. Attendees will take away Chicago Scholars’ approach to providing emergency financial assistance (application process, fund distribution, follow-up support), data on first-generation student persistence challenges, and considerations for managing an emergency fund.

Speakers: Bridget Drury (Speaker) Senior Associate of College Success and Wellness, Chicago Scholars
Alicia Ferraris (Speaker) Director of College Success & Scholar Supports, Chicago Scholars

Providing a Lifeline

Why Career Courses Matter: A Strengths-Based Approach to Collaborative Undergraduate Career Preparation

We will share National Louis University’s 4-year undergraduate model that focuses on equity in employment and degree attainment. Different from a traditional career services office, our Career Development department provides students with the skills, experiences, and networks that will result in strong first jobs. This will ensure that our students have access to career accelerating opportunities—available to their more resourced peers at other institutions—and will be competitive candidates for employment at graduation.

Speakers: Natasha Kohl (Speaker) Director of Career Development, National Louis University
Tatiana Roberts (Speaker) Assistant Professor - Career Development, National Louis University
Uzoma Obidike (Speaker) Assistant Professor, Career Development, National Louis University

Why Career Courses Matter

Paving the Path to the 60 x 25 Goal through Customized Learner Support

Achieve the goal of credentialing 60% of Illinois adults by 2025 through customized learner support. Present three pillars of using big data for classroom design, classroom experience based on learner needs and faculty development to achieve learner success. Share classrooms designed to advance equity, curricula refreshed to welcome diversity, equity and inclusion, and customized learner support. Learn about innovations from a panel of peers and join the dialogue to reach Illinois’ 60 x 25 goal.

Speakers: Scarlett Howery (Speaker) Vice President, Campus Operations, DeVry University Matthew Cooney, PhD (Speaker) Assistant Professor Of Education, Governors State University
Teresa Hayes (Speaker) Professor, DeVry University
Agnam Memeti (Speaker) National Director, Student Central, DeVry University
Andrea Dominguez, PhD (Speaker) Professor, DeVry University
Paula Ure (Speaker) Associate National Dean, Accreditation and Academic Quality, DeVry University
Amy Vujaklija, PhD (Speaker) Assistant Professor, Governors State University
Cari Didion (Speaker) Science Librarian, Assistant Professor, Governors State University

Paving the Path to the 60 x 25 goal through Customized Learner Support

Getting Started Days – The Walkthrough of the College Admissions Process

High school seniors struggle with knowing where/when to start their college admissions process. Rock Valley College breaks down these steps with specific field trips (now virtual events) to complete each step with students and continue communication to help combat summer melt. Attendees will learn what has worked for Rock Valley College and the student’s perspective of preparedness due to these events.

Speakers: Casey Hauser (Speaker) Lead Coordinator of Enrollment Services, Rock Valley College
Joseph Woolford (Speaker) Coordinator of New Student Enrollment, Rock Valley College

Getting Started Days

Anti-Racism in Discipline: Educating the Educators on Behavior Intervention as a Retention Issue

Culturally intelligent and anti-racist educators must understand how racism and white supremacy contribute to over-referrals of BIPOC students to the disciplinary system, and how disciplinary action impacts college access and retention. We will focus on scholarly research regarding racism in school discipline systems, and how behavior intervention, anti-racist policies and procedures, and tangible action steps in regards to referrals and sanctioning can impact retention and success for our at-promise students.

Speakers: Amanda Mesirow (Speaker) Coordinator, Code of Conduct, Moraine Valley Community College

Anti-Racism in Discipline-Educating the Educators on Behavior Intervention as a Retention Issue

Anti-Racism in Discipline-Educating the Educators Reference & Resource

Do a 360 with the Illinois Career Information System

Understatement - our educational landscape looks a lot different! Which is one reason our Illinois Career Information System embarked on a trip around the career development and decision-making world to bring you CIS360! Learn about ready-to-use workplace employability assessments and competencies, multiyear course planners, checklists, and more. CIS360 is changing the way we engage our diverse student population through enhanced college and career readiness opportunities. Don’t worry, CIS still offers our ever-popular Reality Check! Don’t know RC? Come check it out.

Speakers: Marty Johnson (Speaker) Manager, Workforce Analysis and Dissemination, Illinois Department of Employment Security
Troy McMillan from the Illinois Career Information System (Speaker) Illinois Department of Employment Security
Vicki Niederhofer (Speaker) Labor Market Economist, Illinois Department of Employment Security

Do a 360 with the Illinois Career Information System

“To be or not to be Retained … That’s the Question!” Retention, Achievement and Engagement During a Pandemic

One of the most pressing problems facing colleges during the COVID-19 crisis is retaining students especially at-risk, low-income, or underrepresented students. While all students have experienced hardships during the global pandemic, these vulnerable students have been hit particularly hard. Roosevelt University and Western Illinois University are taking similar approaches to assist students over the past year in new, virtual, and remote processes by revising advising appointments, leveraging technology, reaching out virtually, and implementing early alerts. Panel members from Roosevelt University and Western Illinois University will discuss approaches and share insights. The audience will leave with insight on data utilization for retention efforts as well as approaches to remotely connect with students.

Speakers: Courtney Williams (Speaker) Academic Advisor, Roosevelt University
Linda Davis (Speaker) Associate Director of Advising, Roosevelt University
Justin Schuch (Speaker) Executive Director of Retention Initiatives, Western Illinois University
Tim Johnson (Speaker) Academic Advisor, Western Illinois University

To Be or Not to Be Retained

Crossing the Bridge to a Level Playing Field: The Impact of Summer Programs on Underrepresented College Students

Summer bridge programs have a demonstrated track record of helping students transition to and succeed in college, and may offer particular opportunities to address the achievement gap. At Southern Illinois University-Carbondale, Summer Bridge began as a pilot program in 2013 to help underprepared students improve college readiness. At the University of Illinois-Chicago, Summer College provides opportunities for students with developmental math, writing, chemistry, and music theory placements to advance to credit-bearing courses prior to matriculation. In this session, presenters will share programming structure, as well as participation and outcomes data. This presentation highlights implications of data and how summer bridge programs propel students forward to achieve success, with an eye toward and discussion of the ways in which the program contributes to equity on campus.

Speakers: Elizabeth Houlihan (Speaker) Director, First-Year Initiatives | Interim Director, Academic Center for Excellence , University of Illinois at Chicago
Lindsey Back (Speaker) Associate Director, Office for Research on Student Success, University of Illinois at Chicago

Keynote Panel: Fostering Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging for the Success of All Learners

Join us for an important and engaging conversation on how learners from underserved and historically underrepresented populations are not just experiencing problems directly resulting from the pandemic, but the pandemic has elevated existing inequities. It’s important we take steps now to examine and address the short and long-term outcomes of our policies, programs, and structures, as well as grapple with those key issues and the tensions they raise as we strive to meet the needs of all learners. These and other important issues reflect the complexity of our increasingly diverse student body, local community, and worldwide population and the work still needed in advancing equitable student experiences and outcomes.

Speakers: Dr. Eboni Zamani-Gallaher (Moderator) Professor of Education Policy, Organization and Leadership, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign; Director of OCCRL; Executive Director of CSCC, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign
Dr. Michael Baston (Panelist) President, Rockland Community College
Dr. Nidia Ruedas-Gracia (Panelist) Assistant Professor, Educational Psychology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign
Dr. Darris Means (Panelist) Associate Professor, Higher Education, University of Pittsburgh

Supporting and Empowering Underrepresented Students in Persisting Through College

This session will help participants walk away with ideas on what they can do to empower their underrepresented students feel a sense of belonging and support them in persisting in college. Participants will hear from professionals in programs that help underrepresented college students persist in their postsecondary journey. In this session, learn what can be done to ensure underrepresented students aren’t left behind and are supported in persisting and ultimately graduating college.

Speakers: Jasmine Jetton-Gonzales (Moderator) Capacity Development Coordinator, Illinois Student Assistance Commission
Deyci Ramirez (Panelist) CHANCE Bilingual/Bicultural Counselor, Northern Illinois University
Carlos Rivas (Panelist) Alumni Supports & External Affairs Manager, UIC College Prep – Noble Network Charter Schools

Supporting and Empowering Underrepresented Students in Persisting Through College

Whose culture has capital? A critical race theory discussion of community cultural wealth

IPP's New Equity Profiles - A Fresh Lens on Postsecondary Equity Data in Illinois!

Equity Profiles in the Illinois Postsecondary Profiles tool is an exciting new source of detailed information about the postsecondary experience in Illinois. Detailed breakdowns and comparisons are available for a variety of demographic subgroups in the student population. Come see a brief walkthrough and discuss your interest in additional data sets and features!

Speakers: Alan Clemens (Speaker) Director, Illinois Interactive Report Cards Nathan Wilson (Speaker) Deputy Director for Academic and Institutional Effectiveness, Illinois Community College Board
Eric Lichtenberger (Speaker) Deputy Director for Information Management and Research, Illinois Board of Higher Education
Jason Klein (Speaker) Director of P-20 Initiatives, Northern Illinois University
Alan Outreach Engagement and Development (Speaker) Director, NIU Research and Data Collaborative, Northern Illinois University

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IPP's New Equity Profiles

Designing a Student Portal

Investing in new technology is an important decision with lasting consequences. From developing core requirements, to assessing vendors, to preparing staff for the resulting changes, there are opportunities for innovation and roadblocks along the way. This session will explore Chicago Scholars’ process of transitioning to a digital platform, Powered by Action. Participants will leave better prepared for their own technology selection processes and leading their teams through a fundamental shift in the nature of work.

Speakers: Danny Rossi (Speaker) Managing Director of Evaluation and Data Solutions, Chicago Scholars
Noufo Nabine (Speaker) Manager of Career Planning and Exploration, Chicago Scholars
Cason Brunt (Speaker) Director of College Success and Postsecondary Leadership Development, Chicago Scholar

Designing a Student Portal

Building Bridges to Postsecondary: Transitional Instruction Implementation

This session will provide information about Transitional Math and English courses implementation and how they can be used to build a bridge for student access. This session will also include a presentation from a community who has been leading efforts in professional development for Transitional Instruction. Attendees will leave this session with resources and insights on developing or enhancing Transitional Math and English.

Speakers: Anji Garza (Speaker) Director of Professional Learning, Lee/Ogle/Whiteside Regional Office of Education #47
Melvin Harrison (Speaker) Director For Academic Affairs, Illinois Community College Board

Building Bridges to Postsecondary-Transitional Instruction Implementation

To, Through, and Beyond College: First-Gen Lessons

This session explores challenges first generation college students face and ways to support via journalistic podcasting. Our podcast gives a voice to high schoolers taking their first steps towards the college journey, college students navigating uncharted waters, college grads reflecting on their journey, tackling grad school, and the “real world”, and parents who may feel left out of these conversations. We will share lessons learned on democratizing and demystifying the college journey.

Speakers: Cody Dailey (Speaker) Student Success Specialist, Victor J Andrew HS
Daniel Gonzalez (Speaker) Co Host, How to College: First Gen

To, Through, and Beyond College-First-Gen Lessons

Use Illinois workNet Tools to Better Assess and Explore Career Opportunities

Illinois workNet features a robust assessment tool to help career coaches and counselors guide students through career exploration. This session will identify how you can use each of them to help users make better career choices. We have recently added a few new assessments including an Essential Employability Skills survey, Reality Check, and a Learning Style Survey. We will show you how to use the Customer Support Center to track student’s assessments.

Speakers: Dee Reinhardt (Speaker) Field Training Representative, Illinois workNet

Use Illinois workNet Tools

UIC Flames Leadership Network: Interventions and Strategies to Promote Resilience, Retention and Success

The Flames Leadership Network, at the University of Illinois Chicago, carefully identifies students who are at most risk of stopping out within their first year of college. The program, which utilizes a proactive coaching model, supports students in a holistic and intrusive manner. Students are guided through the complexities of academia and fostered with the resources needed to succeed. This session will explore proven interventions which have been shown to help increase belonging, engagement and retention.

Speakers: Elizabeth Houlihan (Speaker) Director, First-Year Initiatives | Interim Director, Academic Center for Excellence , University of Illinois at Chicago
Lindsey Back (Speaker) Associate Director, Office for Research on Student Success, University of Illinois at Chicago

Training for Instructional Practices for Postsecondary Success (TIPPS)

The Training for Instructional Practices for Postsecondary Success (TIPPS)is a series of professional learning modules developed by the Illinois Center for Specialized Professional Support under the direction of the Illinois Community College Board providing postsecondary instructors in career and technical education with an overview of evidence-based practices that strengthen the teaching and learning process while incorporating an equity lens. This session will explore how colleges can use the TIPPS to enhance their faculty professional development.

Speakers: Ann Storey (Speaker) Associate Director for Career and Technical Education, Illinois Community College Board
Aimee Julian (Speaker) Director, Illinois Center for Specialized Professional Support, ISU
Brittany Boston (Speaker) Associate Director for Equity and Outreach, Illinois State University
Shanna Shipman (Speaker) Program Enrichment Consultant, Illinois Center for Specialized Professional Support, ISU

Training for Instructional Practices for Postsecondary Success (TIPPS)

More Just and Equitable Ways Forward - A Social Justice and Leadership Development Grant Program

The More Just and Equitable Ways Forward Grant provides high-impact leadership coaching and financial support to students interested in facilitating service experiences on their college campus and/or in the community. Awarded grant topics have included but aren't limited to a Community Resource Fair, FGLI college application book project, and an environmental card game project. This session will offer participants an opportunity to understand the program development process and how to create a similar programmatic offering.

Speakers: Cason Brunt (Speaker) Director of College Success and Postsecondary Leadership Development, Chicago Scholars

More Just and Equitable Ways Forward

Model Programs of Study: Using Labor Market Data to Steer Students to a Good Job or Degree

The Illinois Community College Board (ICCB) sponsored the development of Model Programs of Study Guides in crucial industry areas as part of the Illinois State Plan for Strengthening Career and Technical Education for the 21st Century Act (also known as the Perkins V Plan).These Guides were developed in consultation and collaboration with the Illinois State Board of Education through a process led and facilitated by Education Systems Center at NIU (EdSystems). The process involved extensive research into labor market information and credential programs, and dialogue across secondary, postsecondary, and employer stakeholders. Learn how these guides provide guidance and exemplars for local counselors, teachers and administrators that can be adopted or customized so that students can maximize their time high school for maximum college AND career readiness

Speakers: Juan Gonzalez (Speaker) Pathways Director, Education Systems Center
Jonathan Furr (Speaker) Executive Director, Education Systems Center at Northern Illinois University

Model Programs of Study

The Promise, the Pipeline, and the Pandemic

For 34 years, Junior/ Senior Scholars, a comprehensive K-12 college and career readiness program, provided a promised pipeline of successful “College Bound!” experiences that provided extensive ongoing academic year and summer supports for youth in two marginalized communities. Participants will experience the pipeline story through multiple lenses, understand how it continued to thrive despite the Pandemic and other obstacles, and be able to replicate several of our proven practices in their communities.

Speakers: Glenn Max McGee (Speaker) President, HYA
Jan Fitzsimmons (Speaker) Executive Director, Center For Success
Robin Czajowski (Speaker) Assistant Director, Center for Success
Vann Harris (Speaker) Team Leader/ College Student, North Central College
Jamesha Shavers (Speaker) Affiliation, Affiliation
Gyselle Tavizon (Speaker) College Changes Everything® (CCE), College Changes Everything® (CCE)

The Promise, the Pipeline and the Pandemic

The Promise, the Pipeline and the Pandemic-Glenn McGhee Bio

The Promise, the Pipeline and the Pandemic-Jan Fitzsimmons Bio

Social Justice in Our High Schools: Supporting Dreamer Clubs

In 2018 the Coalition of Advocates for Undocumented Students' Education was formed to bring together high school Dreamer Clubs and allies. A list of recommendations was created to establish better supports for this population; this list will be released as part of this session.

Speakers: Joanna V. Maravilla (Speaker) Assistant Professor, Educational Leadership and ESL, Lewis University
Luis Narvaez (Speaker) EL Post-Secondary Manager, Chicago Public Schools
Miguel A. Saucedo (Speaker) Director of Special Populations, Chicago Public Schools
Isabela Avila (Speaker) President, Coalition of Advocates for Undocumented Students' Education and High School Student, Chicago Public Schools
Francisco VIllasenor (Speaker) President, Coalition of Advocates for Undocumented Students' Education

Social Justice in Our High Schools-Supporting Dreamer Clubs

Social Justice in Our High Schools-Supporting Dreamer Clubs-Survival Kit

Equitable Higher Education Funding in and Beyond the COVID-19 Crisis

In this session the Partnership for College Completion will discuss how to equitably fund higher education during and in the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic. Drawing on its recent study, Higher Education Appropriations: A Framework for Equity in Illinois, the Partnership will outline the effects of this crisis on students and colleges, bringing in lessons from past financial crises in presenting its four principle framework for equitable funding.

Speakers: Mike Abrahamson (Speaker) Policy Manager, Partnership for College Completion
Kyle Westbrook (Speaker) Executive Director, Partnership for College Completion

Equitable Higher Education Funding in and Beyond the COVID-19 Crisis

Destination Career - The Evolving Path

Students receive much information, but not always what they need. This session covers elements required for students carve out a path to a meaningful, living-wage career. The why: The breadth of options available. The how: Building skills and expertise through training, connections and resources. The what: Exploring to find out what you like, as well as what you don’t.

The who: Building a network.

The result: Empowered to advance on your path and navigate challenges.

Speakers: Karen Demorest (Speaker) Executive Director, Youth Job Center
Jude Laude (Speaker) Director of Programs, Youth Job Center, Inc.
Rico Sanchez (Speaker) Senior Manager, Programs and Partnerships - North, Youth Job Center, Evanston
Lisa Raymond (Speaker) Sr. Manager, Training, Youth Job Center
NuDonna Williams (Speaker) Senior Manager, Programs & Partnerships - South, Youth Job Center

Destination Career-The Evolving Path

Destination Career-The Evolving Path-Next Stop Flyer

Destination Career-The Evolving Path-Youth Job Center Work Readiness Training Handout

Bringing Students Together in a Time of Enforced Separation

TRIO Talent Search and Upward Bound Project Directors propose to discuss our limitations as new directors on the brink of pandemic era restrictions, in newly restructured departments, and the ways in which we collaborated to support successful outcomes for our students. Audience members will have a better sense of the powerful impact of TRIO resources when using a student-centered approach to collaboration, both interdepartmentally and with target school administrators and staff.

Speakers: René Wendinger (Speaker) Assistant Director of Upward Bound, Kankakee Community College
Vanessa Lopez (Speaker) Assistant Director, Kankakee Community College

Bringing Students Together in a Time of Enforced Separation

Honoring Student Voice: Exploring Potential, Choice, and Courage

This session is for stake-holders in learning communities seeking to improve structures and efforts in post-secondary curriculum. High school educators will learn how to humanize the Post-secondary experience for First-Generation low-income students through personalized curriculum and multi-tiered-systems of support that highlight: student voice, choice, and their courage to aspire to new heights. This workshop focuses on Juarez Postsecondary Success Team approach that uses collaborative-supports and efforts in exploring, strengthening and honoring student post-secondary pathways.

Speakers: Diana Guzman (Speaker) Teacher, Juarez Community Academy
Yesenia Olvera (Speaker) College and Career Coach, Chicago Public Schools (CPS)

Honoring Student Voice-Exploring Potential, Choice and Courage

College Prep Boot Camp: A Parent/Student Collaborative Approach to Post-Secondary Education

Learn how to start a College Prep Boot Camp in your school district /community. A dialogue on strategies to support a college readiness approach for Latino students through a culturally responsive family approach. Resources and lessons learned will be share with participants.

Speakers: Araceli Lopez (Speaker) Program coordinator, Northern Illinois University

College Prep Bootcamp-A Parent-Student Collaborative Flyer

College Prep Bootcamp-A Parent-Student Collaborative Scholarship Doc

College Prep Bootcamp-A Parent-Student Collaborative

Creating a First-Year On-Track Index for College Students

Inspired by Freshman OnTrack, UIC developed a first-year on-track index that provides clear metrics to serve as milestones for college graduation. During this presentation, we will first explain why and how the index was developed. Next, we will discuss what factors predict students who are on- and off-track. Finally, we will explore strategies for increasing the number of students who are on-track.

Speakers: Sue Farruggia (Speaker) Assistant Vice Chancellor, University of Illinois at Chicago
Nicole Perez (Speaker) Postdoctoral Research Associate, University of Illinois at Chicago

Creating a First-Year-On-Track Index for College Students

Building Currency in Education Pathways to Address the Teacher Shortage

There is often discussions about Teacher shortages in Illinois but little way to point high school students into effective pathways to pursue a teaching career. In this session you will learn about statewide efforts by Education Systems Center' called Scaling Education Pathways in Illinois (SEPI) and how this aligns with the state's implementation of College and Career Pathways for high school students. Find out what school districts are doing to recruit high schoolers into the education profession and what postsecondary scholarships and opportunities these students will have should they choose a College and Career Pathway in Education and Teaching.

Speakers: Juan Gonzalez (Speaker) Pathways Director, Education Systems Center
Heather Penczak (Speaker) Policy & Program Manager, Education Systems Center

Building Currency in Education Pathways to Address the Teacher Shortage

Building Social Capital and Connection to Pathways for Opportunity Youth through Career Development Experiences

An emerging resource is the Career Development Experience Toolkit Companion Piece. To be viewed in tandem with the Career Development Experience Toolkit, this extension provides resources to address the needs of stakeholders outside of a traditional high school setting and serve Opportunity Youth more inclusively to create opportunities that build social capital and reconnect individuals to a college and career pathway. This session will provide an overview of this resource, as well as community presentations.

Speakers: Heather Penczak (Speaker) Policy & Program Manager, Education Systems Center
Eddie Perez (Speaker) Youth Services Manager, Business and Career Services
Sarah Blalock (Speaker) Youth Career Pathway Grant Intern, Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity Office of Employment and Training

Building Social Captial and Connection to Pathways for Opportunity

Chicagoland Career Pathways: Expanding Education about Post-Secondary Options

An abundance of concurrent and alternating work and education opportunities exist as on-ramps to various occupations, yet young people are often not educated about pathways to career fields outside of the traditional four-year college route. Chicagoland CareerPathways, a free and searchable online directory of employment training and community college programs, aims to help young people and their guides identify and access the broad array of progressive opportunities available to help them achieve their post-secondary goals.

Speakers: Becca Senatore (Speaker) Directory Administrator, Chicagoland CareerPathways / CCT
January Miller (Speaker) Cofounder & Product Owner, Embarc & Chicagoland CareerPathways

Chicagoland Career Pathways-Expanding Education about Post-Secondary Option

The Future Is Competency Based Education: Supporting Early Childhood Educators with Degree Attainment

This session will provide participants with an overview of National Louis University's approach to Early Childhood Educator Preparation through a Competency-Based approach. Project design, expected outcomes, and prior learning assessment/credit for prior learning ideation will be discussed, as well as ways in which to reframe thinking around traditional vs. non-traditional adult learners.

Speakers: Dr. Lisa Downey (Speaker) Director, Undergraduate Educator Preparation, National Louis University
Kamila Wilson (Speaker) Assistant Professor, Competency-Based Project Manager, National Louis University

The Future is Competency Based Education

Celebrating a 21st Century Skill: The Seal of Biliteracy!

The State Seal of Biliteracy celebrates graduating high school seniors who are able to demonstrate high levels of proficiency in English and a second language in preparation for college and career success. Come learn about the process the Chicago Public Schools follow to identify and recognize students, both former English Language Learners and students from Dual and World Language programs, and the reasons why our students are applying for this Early College & Career Credential.

Speakers: Dr. Ernesto Matias (Speaker) Chief Education Officer, IL State Board of Education
Luis Narvaez (Speaker) EL Post-Secondary Manager, Chicago Public Schools
Yvette Vazquez (Speaker) Dean of Equity, CPS
Joaquin Villegas (Speaker) Associate Emeritus Professor, Northeastern Illinois University
Joanne Clyde (Speaker) Director of Multilingual Services, Illinois State Board of Education

Celebrating a 21st Century Skill-The Seal of Biliteracy! National Report

Celebrating a 21st Century Skill-The Seal of Biliteracy!

Advocacy to Engage Policy Leaders: Shaping Institutionalism Toward Progressivism

Educators, workforce development professionals, and advocates dedicated to removing barriers to equitable opportunity in education and the workforce have to drive decision-making in complex social systems. Many times, leaders have to implement untested ideas systemwide. This session seeks to satisfy the inquiry of how and what leaders can do to shape institutionalism to achieve desired normative outcomes. It is important for leaders to understand organizational narrative and how it relates to how they are able to engage policy leaders. Those who are responsible for the interests and resources of others have to walk away understanding the impact of what they are doing in their leadership practices to move the needle.

Speakers: Brooke Moreland (Speaker) Associate Director, Digital Education Hub, Indiana University School of Education

Advocacy to Engage Policy Leaders

Expanding Access to Work-based Learning: Community Models & Insights of Virtual WBL

The focus of the session is how the incorporation of virtual work-based learning (WBL) models into program offerings expands and broadens access for students. Communities who piloted virtual WBL during school year 2020-21 will present their models, insights, learnings, and plans for moving forward. Presenters and students from Northeastern University will provide research and data insights on the impact of virtual WBL on student learning, experience and development of essential employability skills.

Speakers: Nikki James (Speaker) Research Associate, Northeastern University
Liz Miller (Speaker) Professor, Bunker Hill Community College
Heather Penczak (Speaker) Policy & Program Manager, Education Systems Center

Expanding Access to Work-Based Learning



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2021 College Changes Everything Conference Planning Committee

  • Illinois Student Assistance Commission
  • Illinois Board of Higher Education
  • Illinois Community College Board
  • Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity
  • Illinois State Board of Education
  • Illinois College Access Network
  • Federation of Independent Illinois Colleges and Universities
  • Advance Illinois
  • Education Systems Center at Northern Illinois University
  • Generations Serving Generations
  • ACT Now
  • Women Employed

The College Changes Everything® Conference is sponsored
by the Illinois Student Assistance Commission.

Helping Illinois reach its Goal 2025: to increase the proportion of adults in Illinois
with high-quality college degrees and
postsecondary credentials to 60% by the year 2025