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The annual College Changes Everything® (CCE) conference took place on July 18, 2024, at the Tinley Park Convention Center. With over 500 attendees, this year’s conference theme explored the role community health plays in advancing educational equity for Illinois students and families. To view the plenary sessions and all other presentations and handouts, click here.
In addition, ISAC was thrilled to have five Corps alumni panelists discuss how they were making an impact within their communities. The alumni panelists enjoyed sharing their experiences on community impact, discussing inspirations, challenges faced, and how they overcame obstacles. They highlighted design thinking methodologies for social change, shared strategies for engaging diverse voices, and metrics for measuring impact. They also emphasized collaboration, equity, and inclusivity for newcomers in community work. Thank you again to the following alumni panelists!
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Kayla DeCant (2015), Project Director for Prevention & Outreach, Office of Student Life, Lewis University
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Ariel O’Neal (2017), Assistant Director of Graduate Financial Aid,
The University of Chicago
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Katherine Eilers (2009), Director of Award Management in the Office of Research & Projects, Southern Illinois University Edwardsville
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Duane Willingham II (2017), Dean of College & Post-Secondary Planning,
Butler College Prep
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Alexander Skarr (2017), Senior Associate Consultant, Financial Aid Services, LLC
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Illinois College Access Network (ICAN) Upcoming Meeting
Please join the next ICAN meeting on Tuesday, September 24 from 8:30-10:00am. The meeting will be online allowing for participation by colleagues across the state who are passionate about and dedicated to helping students prepare for life after high school. Please use this link to join the meeting. If you have questions about the upcoming meeting, reach out to Renee Martinez at renee.martinez@illinois.gov.
Haven’t joined the Illinois College Access Network? Click here to learn more and join the community!
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New Illinois PaCE Framework for 6th through 8th Grade
On August 15, ISAC hosted their first half-day training on the recently developed Illinois Postsecondary and Career Expectations (PaCE) Curriculum for 6th through 8th grade at Illinois Valley Community College (IVCC) in Oglesby, Illinois. During this training, middle school and high school practitioners gained an understanding of how student engagement with the curriculum helps meet the Illinois PaCE benchmarks for middle school and learned about the structure and content of the curriculum. Click here to learn more about PaCE.
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Upcoming ISAC Professional Development: In-Person and Virtual Trainings
To assist you in helping your students and families with the college-going and financial aid process, ISAC offers free trainings to school counselors, college and career staff, college admission counselors, and other education professionals. Professional Development (PD) hours and Continuing Education (CE) credits will be available for attendees at the rate of one unit per contact hour. For more information and registration details, visit ISAC's Professional Development page.
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Family Action Network (FAN) Events
Family Action Network (FAN) events will be back this fall! ISAC is pleased to continue sponsorship of selected FAN events. FAN’s accessible and dynamic events create common ground and provide the latest insights on education, psychology, social change, relationships, and well-being. FAN is a non-profit organization that curates a high-quality speaker series. All FAN programs are free and open to the public. You can view upcoming and past FAN events at https://www.familyactionnetwork.net/. Feel free to share this information with your colleagues and network.
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Job Opportunities and One-On-One Career Coaching!
Looking for a new job? Check out these positions! ISACorps Alumni Job Postings List.xlsx
If you are looking to advance your career, make a career change, find more balance in your current position, and/or assess your job satisfaction, then check out our career coaching program. Our alumni coordinator can help you develop a roadmap and specific plans to help you meet your career goals. This program is free to all our ISACorps™ alumni!
Take your career to the next level! Get started today by scheduling an appointment with our career coach. Contact us at isac.corpsalumni@illinois.gov to let us know you are interested, and we will get back to you to schedule! We are here to help!
If you know of any job opportunities in your area and would like to share them with your fellow ISACorps™ alumni or current ISACorps members, please email ISAC.CorpsAlumni@illinois.gov.
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First Up Podcast Season 2
We're thrilled to announce that season 2 of the First Up Podcast by ISAC is launching on November 8! This season promises even more engaging conversations and insights into the world of college access and student success. Join us as we explore new stories and expert perspectives from across the education landscape. Whether you're a student, educator, or simply curious, there's something for everyone in this exciting new season. Don't miss out—mark your calendars and tune in November 8 for the premiere episode!
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What We Are Reading and Listening To…
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