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Join the ISACorps™ Alumni Steering Committee: Help Strengthen Our Network!
We are looking for passionate alumni to join us in strengthening the ISACorps Alumni Network by fostering connections and enhancing alumni engagement. The committee currently consists of six dedicated members serving two-year terms, and we are seeking six additional alumni to serve either one- or two-year terms, with the option to renew. As a committee member, you will collaborate virtually four to five times per year, contributing valuable recommendations to shape and advance our alumni initiatives. Your involvement can make a lasting impact—join the ISACorps Alumni Steering Committee to help us build a vibrant and connected alumni community!
This is a great opportunity for you to:
- Enhance your resume.
- Expand and strengthen your personal and professional network.
- Establish yourself as a thought leader.
- Gain practical experience and develop leadership and other skills to advance your career.
- Inspire current and the next generation of Corps members.
Interested applicants are invited to complete the ISACorps Alumni Steering Committee application by Friday, January 17, 2025:
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First Up Podcast Season 2
We’re thrilled to announce the launch of Season 2 of ISAC's podcast series, “First Up!” This podcast dives deep into the unique and inspiring experiences of first-generation college students as they navigate their journeys before, during, and after college. Each episode is packed with authentic stories, challenges, and triumphs that highlight the resilience and determination of these trailblazers. Whether you’re a first-generation college student, an advocate, or simply curious about these incredible journeys, “First Up” offers valuable insights and powerful stories that will resonate with listeners from all walks of life. Tune in today!
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Corps Members Connect with Alumni During Career Planning Webinar
On November 18, Corps members had the incredible opportunity to network with alumni during a career planning webinar. The event featured two breakout sessions that explored career paths in higher education, financial aid, college access, nonprofit work, and K-12 education. We extend our heartfelt thanks to the following alumni who generously shared their stories, experiences, and advice:
- James Yost (2014)
- Jamese Carrell (2010)
- Duane Willingham II (2017)
- Alexander Skarr (2017)
- Citlalli Solano (2018)
- Laura Monteagudo (2014)
Your insights were invaluable and deeply appreciated by our Corps members. Thank you for giving back to the ISAC community!
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ISAC’s College Access Symposiums
The most recent College Access Symposium this fall brought together the best elements of our FAFSA and PaCE Symposiums in an inspiring one-day event. Attendees explored innovative ways high schools and organizations across the state are preparing students for postsecondary and career success, emphasizing the pivotal role of financial aid in achieving their goals. It was a joy to connect with many alumni at Moraine Valley Community College (MVCC) and Lincoln Land Community College (LLCC). We look forward to welcoming even more alumni next year as both attendees and presenters!
Laura Monteagudo (2014) presented with her colleague at ISAC’s College Access Symposium held at MVCC. Their session provided an overview of the College and Career Pathway Endorsements under the Postsecondary and Workforce Readiness (PWR) Act, highlighting how they prepare students with career-ready skills and postsecondary readiness. Participants explored resources to support essential skills development for college-level work and entry-level career opportunities.
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Registration Open for Success Network Conference
Join colleagues from across the state on Tuesday, February 25, 2025, for the Illinois Education and Career Success Network's 12th annual conference, themed Building the Future We Want: Increasing Equitable Postsecondary Attainment. This year's in-person, one-day conference will be held at I Hotel & Illinois Conference Center in Champaign, Illinois. The conference is an engaging learning opportunity designed for leaders from secondary and postsecondary education, local and state government, community-based organizations, policy advocates, grantmakers, employers, and other stakeholders interested in equitably increasing postsecondary attainment in Illinois. Register today for the Illinois Education and Career Success Network Conference.
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Illinois College Access Network (IllinoisCAN) Quarterly Meeting
Join the Illinois College Access Network (IllinoisCAN) for their quarterly meeting on Thursday, February 6 from 8:30 - 10:00 am. The meeting will be held online allowing for participation by colleagues across the state who are passionate about and dedicated to helping students prepare for life after high school. We hope you can join us for an engaging discussion at the IllinoisCAN Quarterly 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? Learn more and join the community today!
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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 select trainings. For more information and registration details, visit ISAC's Professional Development page.
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Family Action Network (FAN) Events
ISAC is pleased to continue sponsorship of selected FAN events. FAN is a non-profit organization that curates a high-quality speaker series. FAN’s accessible and dynamic events create common ground and provide the latest insights on education, psychology, social change, relationships, and well-being. All FAN programs are free and open to the public. View upcoming and past FAN events today. 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 the ISACorps Alumni job postings.
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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