South Suburban College to Dedicate Frank M. Zuccarelli Park on South Holland Campus

SOUTH HOLLAND, IL – Former South Suburban College (SSC) Board Chairman Frank M. Zuccarelli will be honored with a new park in his name. The Park dedication event will be held on Wednesday, June 28, 2023, at 11 a.m. on the north end of the Main Campus. The public is invited to attend this event free of charge. 

The SSC community was profoundly saddened by the news of the passing of longtime Board Chairman Zuccarelli on January 3, 2022, at 70. Zuccarelli, a South Holland resident, has served as a member of the SSC Board of Trustees since 1978. In 2014, he received a service award from the Illinois Community College Trustees Association, recognizing his 35 years of service as a community college trustee. During his tenure, Zuccarelli witnessed SSC and the Illinois community college system grow from temporary buildings into the third largest community college system in the United States (US). He is only the fifth person out of more than 2,200 current and former trustees to reach this level of success in Illinois. 

Zuccarelli previously enrolled at SSC, then Thornton Community College, in 1974 after he completed his enlistment in the US Air Force, where he served as a medic. He earned an Associate of Science degree in 1976 and an Associate of Arts degree in 1978 from SSC. Zuccarelli was elected to the unpaid post on the Board of Trustees in 1978 and was chosen by his peers to be the Chairman of the Board in 1987, a position he maintained until his passing. Zuccarelli also served as Thornton Township Supervisor since 1993, among other public service roles. 

In life, Zuccarelli established one of the SSC Foundation’s most significant annual scholarships to assist students passionate about public or community service. Upon his passing, he and his partner, Carmen Canales, earmarked an additional $20,000 for the Frank M. Zuccarelli memorial fund, which was utilized to revitalize the gazebo park area, where many classes and events were held during his early years at SSC. Preparations for Zuccarelli Park were partly funded by Friends of Frank and the SSC Foundation. Revitalizations include 22 new trees, flowers, and bushes, an LED walkway, gazebo lights, a fountain, new benches, signage, and a plaque. The Village of South Holland also donated 12 picnic tables for use. 

Charitable gifts to support Zuccarelli’s legacy in perpetuity can be made online at https://ssc2.evo-clients.com/foundation. To learn more about the SSC Foundation or Frank M. Zuccarelli Park, please contact Zanetta Miller, SSC Executive Director of Public Relations and Resource Development, at (708) 225-5846 or email zmiller@ssc.edu. The SSC Main Campus is located at 15800 South State Street, South Holland, Illinois.
 

A photo of former Chairman Frank M. Zuccarelli
PICTURED: Former Chairman Frank M. Zuccarelli during a meeting of the South Suburban College Board of Trustees.

South Suburban College Will Offer Kids Summer Program Starting Late June

SOUTH HOLLAND, IL – The Office of Continuing, Corporate, and Community Education (C3) at South Suburban College (SSC) will offer the College for Kids program at the main campus in South Holland. The program will begin on Monday, June 26, 2023, and conclude on Thursday, July 27, 2023. Classes will not be offered on Tuesday, July 4, 2023, as the campus will be closed for the holiday. Children going into 2nd -12th grade are invited to participate. This program will explore reading, study skills, grammar and writing, math, Spanish, arts & crafts, step aerobics, and game creation.

The materials covered in the sessions do not repeat but enhance your child’s learning method of reviewing and introducing new course materials. All of our instructors are certified teachers who are looking forward to adding to your child’s development. Most classes require a minimum of five students, and some courses have a maximum limit. All registration is on a “first-come, first serve” basis. We ask that students enroll at least one week before the start of class.

“Children in this program have the opportunity to learn in a variety of academic arenas. It will help keep their educational tools sharp during the summer months when school is not in session,” said Gervaise Edwards, Manager of C3. “This experience can lead participants to have better, brighter futures.”

SSC’s Main Campus will offer this program at 15800 S. State St., South Holland, IL 60473. Contact the C3 department at (708) 596-2000, ext. 2231, or ext. 5723 for more information or to enroll a child in College for Kids. Visit ssc.edu for a complete listing of non-credit classes for youth and adults.

An arial photo of the South Suburban College Main Campus located in South Holland, Illinois.
PICTURED: The South Suburban College Main Campus located in South Holland, Illinois.

Ruth Johnson Colvin Selected as Recipient of 2023 Illinois Community College Trustees Association Distinguished Alumnus Award

SOUTH HOLLAND, IL – Ruth Johnson Colvin, a graduate of South Suburban College (SSC), formerly known as Thornton Junior College (TJC), was selected as the 2023 recipient of the Illinois Community College Trustees Association (ICCTA) Distinguished Alumnus Award. Johnson Colvin attended the College from 1934 to 1936. This centenarian (born in Chicago, Illinois, on December 16, 1916) has trailblazed a unique path in her field and is commonly referred to as the mother of Adult Literacy. 

SSC President Dr. Lynette D. Stokes attended the ICCTA annual awards banquet at the Bloomington-Normal Marriott Hotel and Conference Center on Friday, June 2, 2023. “It is an honor to accept this recognition on behalf of an extraordinary alumna who has dedicated her life to serving her community, this country, and the world at large through her literacy efforts,” Stokes remarked. “Her unwavering dedication to her passion for helping others is truly inspiring.” While Johnson Colvin could not attend the awards banquet, she did send brief remarks about receiving the award, “As you know, Chicago, Illinois, was my childhood home, so I was honored to be given such an outstanding award from the ICCTA. A big thanks, and I hope to help all to be able to read and write. I believe being literate is most important. ”

Upon earning an associate’s degree, Johnson Colvin studied at Moser Business College and Northwestern University before earning a bachelor’s degree in 1959 from Syracuse University. After reading about the illiteracy rate of citizens living in Syracuse, New York (NY) during the 1961 Census Data Report, Johnson Colvin became an agent of change and launched Literacy Volunteers of America (LVA) in 1962. In 2002, LVA merged with Laubach Literacy International and became ProLiteracy Worldwide. This non-profit organization has served more than 300,000 adult learners. 

Johnson Colvin’s early literacy work aided in recruiting volunteers to be trained as tutors to teach the illiterate population. Her undertaking produced partnerships with various colleges and organizations worldwide in training to eradicate illiteracy. Her curriculum encouraged the autonomy of adult learners while building a profile based on the individual needs of each learner. 

While Johnson Colvin’s work began in NY, her literacy efforts have expanded internationally. She worked to eradicate illiteracy from more than 26 developing countries during her travels to train others and spearhead grassroots ventures focused on literacy education. Her passion for literacy is also evident through her publication of tutoring books and the pedagogical teachings of English to adult learners.

Currently, Tutor 8, one of 15 books authored by Johnson Colvin, is used in the Adult Education department at South Suburban College. “Ruth’s Tutor curriculum has shaped how volunteer literacy programs are run nationwide for decades,” stated Dr. Matthew Beasland, SSC Executive Director of Extension Services & Workforce Development.

Former President Ronald Regan acknowledged the efforts of Johnson Colvin’s advocacy for literacy as she earned the President’s Volunteer Action Award in 1987. She was also inducted into the Women’s Hall of Fame in 1993 and received the Presidential Medal of Freedom from former President George W. Bush 13 years later. The former President noted, “Ruth Colvin is a person of intelligence, vision, and heart. And she has earned the gratitude of many and the admiration of us all.”

“Ruth has received some of the highest honors and awards that can be bestowed upon an individual,” SSC Board of Trustees Chairman Terry R. Wells wrote in his letter of support to the ICCTA. “However, the most important title one can call her is an alumna of SSC. She truly represents SSC’s mission of serving through lifelong learning.”

“I met my husband, Bob Colvin, while attending TJC, who was the love of my life,” Johnson Colvin remarked. “My time at TJC was an excellent two years, I had outstanding teachers, and while attending community college, I developed a passion for wanting more. I’ll always remember the community college experience.”

The South Suburban College Main Campus is located at 15800 South State Street in South Holland, IL. Registration is underway for the Summer and Fall 2023 Semesters. Courses for the Summer 2023 Semester begin the week of Monday, June 5. Classes for the Fall 2023 Semester begin the week of Monday, August 21. Call the Office of Admissions at (708) 210-5718 or email admissions@ssc.edu for information about the enrollment process at SSC.
 

A photo of Ruth Johnson Colvin
PICTURED: 2023 Illinois Community College Trustees Association Distinguished Alumnus Award Recipient, Ruth Johnson Colvin.

Free Learning Opportunities Available and Volunteers Needed for the South Suburban College Literacy Tutoring Program

SOUTH HOLLAND, IL – South Suburban College (SSC) is seeking participants for the Adult Volunteer Literacy Tutoring Program. The program is structured to train volunteers to become one-on-one tutors for adults needing basic literacy skills. Instruction in basic literacy includes the development of phonetic reading skills, whole language experience, and practical communication skills. Residents can volunteer as tutors and encourage others to take advantage of this free professional development opportunity.

Once certified, SSC’s volunteer literacy tutors visit adult learners at locations in or near their neighborhoods. Tutoring is flexibly scheduled based on the availability of tutors, learners, and tutoring sites. The following areas have been established as tutoring sites: Acorn Public Library, Oak Forest; Glenwood-Lynwood Library; Harvey Public Library; Phoenix Public Library; Calumet City Public Library; Grande Prairie Library, Hazel Crest; Homewood Public Library; South Holland Public Library; South Suburban College Main Campus Library, South Holland; South Suburban College Oak Forest Center Library, Oak Forest; Lansing Public Library; Dolton Public Library; Riverdale Public Library; Blue Island Public Library; Dixmoor Public Library; Tinley Park Public Library; Markham Public Library; Midlothian Public Library; and Thornton Public Library.

Illiteracy can be debilitating for adults who have yet to receive the proper instruction. Adults who cannot read experience difficulty completing many daily activities that others may take for granted, and this is a disadvantage in today’s competitive job market.

SSC’s Office of Adult Education administers the Adult Volunteer Literacy (AVL) Tutoring Program in addition to High School Equivalency (HSE), English as a Second Language (ESL), and Adult Basic Education (ABE). These opportunities are made possible by a grant awarded by the Illinois State Library (ISL), a division of the Office of the Secretary of State, using state funds designated for literacy.

The June training will occur at the South Suburban College Main Campus in South Holland, IL, on Tuesdays and Thursdays from June 6 through June 22, 2023, from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. This 12-hour program culminates with literacy training certification. Tutors will continue to receive free professional development services throughout this program. Successful tutors are also eligible for letters of support or recommendation for jobs, scholarships, educational opportunities, and more. For additional information or to register, please get in touch with David Stephens, Adult Literacy Grants Manager, at (708) 596-2000, ext. 2558, or email DStephens@ssc.edu.
 

An arial photo of the South Suburban College Main Campus located in South Holland, Illinois.
PICTURED: The South Suburban College Main Campus located in South Holland, Illinois.

South Suburban College Bulldogs Spring Sports Programs Achieve Accomplishments

SOUTH HOLLAND, IL – The South Suburban College (SSC) Athletics department recently acclaimed various achievements. On Wednesday, May 10, a production crew from WGN-TV visited Bulldog Stadium on the south end of the Main Campus to highlight the 1300th career win of Steve Ruzich, Head Coach of the Bulldogs Baseball Team. Ruzich was an All-American catcher at the College of St. Francis. He graduated in 1985 and was drafted as a catcher that summer by the Chicago White Sox. He became the Head Coach of the Bulldogs Baseball Team in 1987.

The same day that WGN-TV visited Bulldogs Stadium, the SSC Men’s Baseball Team pulled off a 10-0 win over Kishwaukee College in the first round of the playoffs. Following this victory, the Bulldogs moved on to play Triton College in the tournament. They defeated the Trojans 20-10 on Thursday, May 11, and 5-3 on Saturday, May 13 to claim the National Junior College Athletic Association (NJCAA) Region IV Division I Baseball Championship.

SSC’s own Dawson Tanner, a sophomore outfielder from Canada, was named the tournament’s most valuable player. Head Coach Steve Ruzich was also named Region IV Coach of the Year. The 40-19 Bulldogs advance to the Midwest District in Centerville, Iowa. The winner of this double-elimination tournament will advance to the World Series in Grand Junction, Colorado.

The SSC Softball Team brought in wins of their own to conclude their regular season. On Monday, May 15, they defeated Bryant and Stratton College of Milwaukee 10-9 at home to earn the NJCAA Region IV Division II Midwest A District Championship. The 36-12 Lady Bulldogs advance to the national tournament in Spartanburg, South Carolina. They will represent SSC at the NJCAA DII Women’s Softball World Series beginning on Tuesday, May 23.

The full news story from WGN-TV released on Thursday, May 11, is accessible at: https://tinyurl.com/4k35hh5a. The SSC Athletics department is located in the Physical Fitness & Athletic Center on the Main Campus located at 15800 South State Street in South Holland, IL. For more information about Bulldogs Athletics, contact SSC Athletic Director Steve Ruzich at sruzich@ssc.edu or call (708) 596-2000, ext. 5843.
 

A photo of Bruno, the South Suburban College Bulldogs mascot, posing with a baseball and softball in the Physical Fitness & Athletic Center.
PICTURED: Bruno, the South Suburban College Bulldogs mascot, poses with a baseball and softball in the Physical Fitness & Athletic Center.

South Suburban College and Pace Bus Partner to Offer Third Pre-hiring Event on May 11

SOUTH HOLLAND, IL – South Suburban College (SSC) and Pace Bus are pleased to announce a third pre-hiring event to provide a free Class B Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) permit course for the next generation of professional bus operators in the Chicago Southland region. The college and transportation agency will offer a customized two-week course to assist qualified applicants in obtaining their CDL permit. To remove financial barriers for students to pursue and complete the program actively, Pace will cover the costs of tuition, training, books, fees, and other expenses associated with the program. In addition, SSC, in partnership with the Workforce Equity Initiative Grant, will provide a completion incentive for participants who complete the two-week course.

On Thursday, May 11th, 2023, from 6:00 pm – 9:00 pm, SSC will host a pre-hiring event for job seekers to meet with Pace staff. During the 3-hour event, which begins at 6 pm, applicants will complete a screening process in the MB Financial Bank Room located on the first floor of the main campus, including application completion, an assessment questionnaire, and a background check. All candidates must bring a valid Illinois driver’s license and a DMV or Secretary of State Motor Vehicle Report (MVR) (also called Driving Record Abstracts in Illinois) with no more than two infractions or tickets in the last five years.

Assessment results will be available 2-4 days after the event when candidates must complete an Illinois Department of Transportation physical and drug screening. Pace Bus will cover the cost of these screenings. Candidates who pass these screenings will be enrolled in a training course that will take place at SSC.

Qualified candidates who complete the two-week course will transition to a six-week on-the-job training with Pace.

For more information or to register for the CDL Class B licensure program with SSC and Pace, please contact SSC’s Continuing Education Program at 708-596-2000 ext. 5723.

* Candidates are responsible for the cost of the MVR, which is $12.
 
WORK FOR PACE ad

South Suburban College Honors Outgoing Board of Trustee Members and Welcomes New Student Trustee

SOUTH HOLLAND, IL – On Thursday, April 20, 2023 South Suburban College (SSC) honored outgoing Board of Trustee members Joseph Whittington, Vincent Lockett, and Prince Reed. The SSC Board of Trustees also swore in a new student trustee, Jamesina Collier, who replaced Fatima Serrato, the previous SSC student trustee. 

The collective experiences of the outgoing trustees were recognized with a small ceremony that featured plaques to honor each member’s service to the SSC Board. Trustee Joseph Whittington remarked, “I am so honored to have had the opportunity to serve the SSC Board. I was mentored by awesome leaders such as our previous SSC Chairman Frank Zuccarelli, and previous Trustee Katie Jackson-Booker.” Trustee Vincent Lockett expressed similar sentiments and discussed his admiration for the incoming trustees. “I now have new friends at SSC, and I am a Bulldog for life,” stated Lockett. In addition, Trustee Prince Reed expressed gratitude to the board for the opportunity to serve and wished them continued success.

Jamesina Collier, the new SSC student trustee, was sworn in by Board Secretary Janet M. Rogers. The SSC student trustee is voted in through an annual student election process. This individual also receives a scholarship from the South Suburban College Foundation. Collier replaced outgoing student trustee Fatima Serrato, who is projected to graduate in May 2023. 

Incoming South Suburban College trustees will be welcomed at a special Board of Trustees meeting on Monday, May 1, 2023 at 8 p.m. in the Board Room on the second floor of the College’s Main Campus. Visit the Board of Trustees webpage to learn about the seven-member team and upcoming meetings: https://ssc2.evo-clients.com/about-ssc/board-of-trustees/.

For media inquiries, contact Zanetta Miller at (708) 596-2000, ext. 5846, or email zmiller@ssc.edu. The South Suburban College Main Campus is located at 15800 South State Street, South Holland, Illinois. Our mission is to Serve our Students and the Community through lifelong learning. 
 

A photo of South Suburban College Outgoing Board of Trustee
PICTURED: (from left to right) Trustee Joseph Whittington, Trustee Anthony DeFilippo, Trustee Prince Reed, College President Lynette D. Stokes, Chairman Terry R. Wells, outgoing Student Trustee Fatima Serrato, incoming Student Trustee Jamesina Collier, Secretary Janet M. Rogers, Vice Chair Vivian Payne, and Trustee Vincent Lockett at the monthly meeting of the Board of Trustees on Thursday, April 20, 2023.

South Suburban College’s Student Organization for Latino Empowerment and Success (SOLES) Attends Illinois LAtino Council on Higher Education (ILACHE) Conference

SOUTH HOLLAND, IL – On Friday, April 14, South Suburban College’s (SSC) Student Organization for Latino Empowerment & Success (SOLES) attended the Illinois LAtino Council on Higher Education (ILACHE) Conference hosted at Malcolm X College. SSC students participated in various workshops, including Pilsen’s Festival de Mujeres 1979: Using a new digital exhibit to explore la riqueza of 1970s; Cafecito sin Azucar: Undocumented Professional Collective Wisdom at Work; Crotchet and Sustainability: What I learned from my mother; and Self-Advocacy in Higher Education. 

“My favorite workshop was self-advocacy advocating for yourself as a Latina/o/e. It was very informative on how to advocate for your well-being,” said Ana Ezparza, SSC Student and Latino Center Office Assistant. SOLES President Gloria Ruiz added, “I learned how to set healthy boundaries.” In addition, Lizbeth Atenco, SOLES Secretary, stated the My Skin, My Weapon workshop was her favorite as it provided tips on surviving graduate school as a Latina.

The ILACHE Conference hosted two speakers for the morning and afternoon plenary during breakfast and lunch. Dr. Nancy “Rusty” Barcelo, nationally recognized for her work in diversity and inclusion and former President of Northern New Mexico College, spoke about her journey in higher education in the late 60s as a Chicana during the morning plenary. SSC Barber College student Miguel Ramos mentioned he “really enjoyed the morning speaker, Rusty.” 

Author and Latinx Activist Prisca Dorcas Mojica Rodríguez presented a portion of her book, For Brown Girls with Sharp Edges and Tender Hearts, during the afternoon plenary. “It was great to hear their amazing stories and learn from Dr. Barcelo and Prica Mojica Rodriguez,” stated Lizbeth Atenco, SOLES Secretary. 

SSC Students also attended the research symposium with topics such as Medically Assisted Therapy during Pregnancy and the Impact of Commercialized American food in Mexico. “It was exciting meeting new people and seeing all the research,” said SSC student and SOLES member Gabriela “Gaby” Chaparro. 

Overall, the ILACHE Conference provided SSC students professional and personal growth opportunities. Kimberly Rodriguez, an SSC student, stated, “There was trust between all of us as a community without inequalities,” referencing the Latinx community. The conference concluded with a networking event in which various undergraduate, graduate, and higher education professionals participated. Miguel Ramos concluded, “It was inspiring to be around people from all walks of life who want to make a positive impact for all Latino communities.” 

The South Suburban College Main Campus is located at 15800 S. State Street, South Holland, IL. For more information on SSC’s Latino Center, please call (708) 210-5740 or email latino@ssc.edu.
 

A photo of SSC students of the SOLES Group Attended the ILACHE Conference.
PICTURED: Students of the South Suburban College SOLES Group Attended the Illinois LAtino Council on Higher Education Conference.

Free Learning Opportunities Available and Volunteers Needed for the South Suburban College Literacy Tutoring Program

SOUTH HOLLAND, IL – South Suburban College (SSC) is seeking participants for the Adult Volunteer Literacy (AVL) Tutoring Program to educate adults who are unable to read and experience difficulty with daily activities, including competing in today’s job market. The program is structured to train volunteers to become one-on-one tutors for instruction in basic literacy skills, including the development of phonetic reading and whole language experiences, combined with effective communication skills.

Community members are welcome to volunteer as tutors and encourage others to take advantage of this free professional development opportunity. Once certified, the SSC volunteer literacy tutors visit adult learners at locations in or near their neighborhoods. Tutoring is flexibly scheduled based on the availability of tutors, learners, and tutoring sites.

Established tutoring sites currently include Acorn Public Library, Oak Forest; Glenwood-Lynwood Library; Harvey Public Library; Phoenix Public Library; Calumet City Public Library; Grande Prairie Library, Hazel Crest; Homewood Public Library; South Holland Public Library; South Suburban College Main Campus Library, South Holland; South Suburban College Oak Forest Center Library, Oak Forest; Lansing Public Library; Dolton Public Library; Riverdale Public Library; Blue Island Public Library; Dixmoor Public Library; Tinley Park Public Library; Markham Public Library; Midlothian Public Library; and Thornton Public Library.

The SSC Office of Adult Education administers the AVL Tutoring Program in addition to High School Equivalency (HSE), English as a Second Language (ESL), and Adult Basic Education (ABE). These opportunities are made possible by a grant awarded by the Illinois State Library (ISL), a division of the Office of the Secretary of State, using state funds designated for literacy.

Training will take place at the South Suburban College Main Campus in South Holland, IL on Tuesdays and Thursdays from May 2 through May 18, 2023, from 3:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. This 12-hour program culminates with literacy training certification. Tutors will continue to receive free professional development services throughout this program. Successful tutors are also eligible for letters of support or recommendations for jobs, scholarships, educational opportunities, and more.

For additional information, or to register, please contact David Stephens, Adult Literacy Grants Manager, at (708) 596-2000, ext. 2558, or email DStephens@ssc.edu.
 

A photo of a tutor and a student as part of the Adult Volunteer Literacy Tutoring Program.
PICTURED: Mary Gercken (right) tutors a student as part of the South Suburban College Adult Volunteer Literacy Tutoring Program.

Cook County and South Suburban College Announce New Recycling Center and Household Hazardous Waste Event

SOUTH HOLLAND, IL – Cook County has partnered with South Suburban College (SSC) to establish the Center for Hard to Recycle Materials (CHaRM), a permanent recycling drop-off facility located on the Main Campus for all Cook County residents. A grand opening will be held on Saturday, April 22, 2023, from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. at this new location in South Holland.

CHaRM will accept clothing, computers, e-waste, furniture, glass, metal, paper, plastic, small appliances, Styrofoam, and textiles on Tuesdays from 7 a.m. to 12 noon, Thursdays from 2 p.m. to 7 p.m., and the second Saturday of every month from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Additional information and other accepted materials may be verified at www.cookcountyil.gov/CHaRMCenter.

During the grand opening, SSC will additionally host a one-day household hazardous waste (HHW) collection event on the north side of the Main Campus in the overflow parking lot. Participants interested in dropping off household hazardous waste are encouraged to register at cookgov.me/HHWsignup and may enter at the traffic signal on State Street.

Acceptable waste that can be collected during the HHW event includes acids, aerosol paints, antifreeze, cleaning products, corrosives, drain cleaners, fluorescent lamp bulbs, herbicides, hobby chemicals, household batteries, insecticides, lawn chemicals, mercury, oil-based paints, old gasoline, paint thinners, pesticides, pool chemicals, solvents, and used motor oil.

Unacceptable waste that will not be collected during the HHW event includes agricultural wastes, biohazard waste, business/commercial wastes, controlled substances, explosives/ammunition, farm machinery oil, fire extinguishers, fireworks, institutional waste, lead acid batteries, propane tanks, and smoke detectors. Note that latex paint should be discarded with regular trash pickup.

The South Suburban College Main Campus is located at 15800 S. State Street, South Holland, IL. For more information, please call (312) 603-8212, option 2, or email wasteandrecycling@cookcountyil.gov.

 

Students of the South Suburban College Highway Construction Careers Training Program set up for the Household Hazardous Waste collection event.
PICTURED: Students of the South Suburban College Highway Construction Careers Training Program set up for the Household Hazardous Waste collection event to be held on Saturday, April 22, 2023.

Kerri Mommer’s “PUSHBACK: Trees in the Anthropocene” Exhibit Now at South Suburban College’s Thiel Gallery

SOUTH HOLLAND, IL – The Art & Design Department of South Suburban College (SSC) is pleased to present an exhibition entitled “PUSHBACK: Trees in the Anthropocene” by artist Kerri Mommer, on display in the Dorothea Thiel Gallery from March 10 to April 18, 2023, with an artist Reception on April 18 at 2:30 p.m. Mommer lives in Northwest Indiana and works in Chicago.

The Dorothea Thiel Gallery is on the fourth floor and is open Monday through Friday from 9:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. The galleries are closed on weekends and holidays. The galleries are supported in part by the SSC Foundation. SSC is located at 15800 South State Street, South Holland, Illinois. For more information, please email Eric Tucker, Art & Design Department Coordinator,  at etucker@ssc.edu or call (708) 596-2000, ext. 2300. 
 

Proud, acrylic on canvas, 20 x 16 inches
PICTURED:Proud” – a sample of artwork by Kerri Mommer

Free Learning Opportunities Available and Volunteers Needed for the South Suburban College Literacy Tutoring Program

SOUTH HOLLAND, IL – South Suburban College (SSC) is seeking participants for the Adult Volunteer Literacy Tutoring Program. The program is structured to train volunteers to become one-on-one tutors for adults needing basic literacy skills. Instruction in basic literacy includes the development of phonetic reading skills, whole language experience, and effective communication skills. Residents are invited to volunteer as tutors and encourage others to take advantage of this free professional development opportunity.

Once certified, SSC’s volunteer literacy tutors visit adult learners at locations in or near their neighborhoods. Tutoring is flexibly scheduled based on the availability of tutors, learners, and tutoring sites. The following areas have been established as tutoring sites: Acorn Public Library, Oak Forest; Glenwood-Lynwood Library; Harvey Public Library; Phoenix Public Library; Calumet City Public Library; Grande Prairie Library, Hazel Crest; Homewood Public Library; South Holland Public Library; South Suburban College Main Campus Library, South Holland; South Suburban College Oak Forest Center Library, Oak Forest; Lansing Public Library; Dolton Public Library; Riverdale Public Library; Blue Island Public Library; Dixmoor Public Library; Tinley Park Public Library; Markham Public Library; Midlothian Public Library; and Thornton Public Library.

Illiteracy can be debilitating for adults who have yet to receive the proper instruction. Adults who cannot read experience difficulty completing many daily activities that others may take for granted while also experiencing a disadvantage in today’s competitive job market.

SSC’s Office of Adult Education administers the Adult Volunteer Literacy (AVL) Tutoring Program in addition to High School Equivalency (HSE), English as a Second Language (ESL), and Adult Basic Education (ABE). These opportunities are made possible by a grant awarded by the Illinois State Library (ISL), a division of the Office of the Secretary of State, using state funds designated for literacy.

The April training will take place at the South Suburban College Oak Forest Campus in Oak Forest on Tuesdays and Thursdays from April 4 through April 27, 2023 from 4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. This 12-hour program culminates with literacy training certification. Tutors will continue to receive free professional development services throughout this program. Successful tutors are also eligible for letters of support or recommendation for jobs, scholarships, educational opportunities, and more. For additional information, or to register, please contact David Stephens, Adult Literacy Grants Manager, at (708) 596-2000, ext. 2558, or email DStephens@ssc.edu.
 

An arial photo of the South Suburban College Main Campus located in South Holland, Illinois.
PICTURED: The South Suburban College Main Campus located in South Holland, Illinois.

South Suburban College Freezes Tuition for 5th year to Ease Economic Burden for Students in the Southland Region

SOUTH HOLLAND, IL– South Suburban College (SSC) has not increased tuition for community college students since 2018. SSC has strategically implemented initiatives that remove economic barriers by allowing students to sign up for classes without being dropped for non-payment. The college also offers several programs for eligible students, including special tuition rates, tuition-free course waivers, and scholarship opportunities.
 
“As a college, we understand that a tuition increase could greatly impact the students we serve. Freezing tuition and removing barriers to registering for a class for new and current students will aid in affordable education. Our goal includes removing economic hardships to education and allowing our students to have a smooth path towards earning an SSC degree,” noted SSC Board Chairman Terry Wells.
 
The pandemic’s consequences also added hardships for students, so the tuition freeze and other initiatives will continue encouraging new enrollees. “SSC celebrated having the Spring 2023 term be the first semester that enrollment was higher than pre-covid enrollment numbers. The continued efforts by President Stokes, the executive leadership team, the faculty, staff, and the SSC Board of Trustees have ensured a continued path for student success”, stated SSC Board of Trustee Vincent Lockett. SSC continues its efforts to provide affordable and flexible class options for college degree seekers with a wide range of course delivery selections. For Fall 2023, new and currently enrolled students can choose from SSC’s High Five modes of course delivery, including in-person, online, virtual, flex, and blended delivery methods. SSC also offers scholarships through the SSC Foundation to ensure students have additional financial resources for affordable education. Since 1989, the SSC Foundation has issued over $2.6 million in scholarship awards.
 
Registration is currently in progress for the Summer 2023 semester. SSC’s online application, registration services, and class schedule are easily accessible at ssc.edu.
 
Call the Office of Admissions at (708) 210-5718 or email admissions@ssc.edu for information about SSC’s enrollment process. Para Información En Español Llame: (708) 210-5740. The South Suburban College Main Campus is located at 15800 South State Street, South Holland, Illinois. The college’s extension site, the Oak Forest Center, is located at 16333 South Kilbourn Avenue, Oak Forest, Illinois.
 

An arial photo of the South Suburban College Main Campus located in South Holland, Illinois.
PICTURED: The South Suburban College Main Campus located in South Holland, Illinois.

Exhibition of Artwork by Jewlya Sturtevant on Display in South Suburban College Dulgar Gallery

SOUTH HOLLAND, IL – The South Suburban College (SSC) Art & Design Department is presenting an exhibition of work by artist Jewlya Sturtevant entitled “How to Turn into a Frog” in the Lee E. Dulgar Gallery on the first floor of the Main Campus. Her work is available for viewing from March 13 through April 20, 2023. A closing reception will be held on April 20 from 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.


Jewlya Sturtevant is a contemporary American artist working in northwest Indiana. She creates work known for its visceral and surrealist approach to depicting the figure. Her work addresses themes relating to the political and cultural phenomena of the female. Her practice began six years ago and includes painting, drawing, and sculpture. She graduated with a Bachelor of Fine Arts from Indiana University (IU) in 2022. One of her paintings remains in the permanent collection at the IU Northwest campus in Gary, Indiana.

The public is welcome to visit the art exhibition and reception at no charge. Masks and social distancing are optional. The SSC Dulgar Gallery is open Monday from 11:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m., Tuesdays and Thursdays from 12:00 – 9:00 p.m., Wednesdays from 9:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m., and Fridays from 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. All SSC art galleries are closed on weekends and college holidays. For more information, contact Eric Tucker at (708) 596-2000, ext. 2300, or email etucker@ssc.edu. The SSC Main Campus is located at 15800 South State Street, South Holland, Illinois.
 

Painting by Jewlya Sturtevant
PICTURED: Sample of artwork by Jewlya Sturtevant.

South Suburban College’s Criminal Justice Program Hosted “Dogs & Drones” Event for National Criminal Justice Month

SOUTH HOLLAND, IL – The South Suburban College’s (SSC) Criminal Justice Program recently presented a program entitled “Dogs & Drones” for National Criminal Justice Month. The event, held on March 9th at the college, included a drone demonstration by the Burr Ridge Police Department and Federal Aviation Administration Drone Pro Keenan Newton. In addition, the program on “Dogs” featured police dog Louie from the Worth Illinois Police Department and police dog Hatty from the Cook County State Attorney’s Office. The area high schools were invited to bring up to 12 students plus a chaperone.

The United States Congress established National Criminal Justice Month in 2006; March is National Criminal Justice Month. Its purpose is to promote societal awareness around the causes and consequences of crime and strategies for preventing and responding to crime. The American Academy for Criminal Justice Sciences (ACJS) also recognizes March as National Criminal Justice Month. 

For more information on SSC’s Criminal Justice Program, please contact Becky Walters, Program Coordinator, at bwalters@ssc.edu. South Suburban College’s Main Campus is located at 15800 S. State St., South Holland, IL 60473.
 

A photo from South Suburban College “Dogs & Drones” Event
South Suburban College “Dogs & Drones” Event

South Suburban College and Pace Bus Partner to Offer Second Pre-hiring Event on March 28

SOUTH HOLLAND, IL–South Suburban College (SSC) and Pace Bus are pleased to announce a second pre-hiring event to provide a free Class B Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) permit course for the next generation of professional bus operators in the Chicago Southland region. The college and transportation agency will offer a customized two-week course to assist qualified applicants in obtaining their CDL permit. To remove financial barriers for students to pursue and complete the program actively, Pace will cover the costs of tuition, training, books, fees, and other expenses associated with the program.

On Tuesday, March 28th, 2023, from 6:00 pm – 9:00 pm, SSC will host a pre-hiring event for job seekers to meet with Pace staff. During the 3-hour event, which begins at 6 pm, applicants will complete a screening process in SSC’s Performing Arts Center, including application completion, an assessment questionnaire, and a background check. All candidates must bring a valid Illinois driver’s license and a DMV or Secretary of State Motor Vehicle Report (MVR) (also called Driving Record Abstracts in Illinois) with no more than two infractions or tickets in the last five years.

Assessment results will be available 2-4 days after the event, when candidates must complete an Illinois Department of Transportation physical and drug screening. Pace Bus will cover the cost of these screenings. Candidates who pass these screenings will be enrolled in a training course that will take place at SSC.

Qualified candidates who complete the two-week course will transition to a six-week on-the-job training with Pace. For more information or to register for the CDL Class B licensure program with SSC and Pace, please contact SSC’s Continuing Education Program at 708-596-2000 ext. 5723.

* Candidates are responsible for the cost of the MVR, which is $12.
 
WORK FOR PACE ad
 


About South Suburban College
South Suburban College (SSC) is a public community college in South Holland, Illinois with a second campus located in Oak Forest, Illinois. The College offers over 100 program options from a wide selection of career education and college transfer credit programs. Additionally, SSC offers non-credit customized training, short-term instruction for business, and dozens of special interest classes. The College has a state-of-the-art Performing Arts Center. A variety of cultural events are sponsored by the College, including plays, comedy acts, special lectures, and concerts, adding to the richness of the performing arts in the south suburbs.

About Pace Suburban Bus
Pace Suburban Bus safely and efficiently moves people to work, school, and other regional destinations with its family of public transportation services. Pace offers affordable and environmentally responsible transit options for the residents of 274 municipalities in Cook, Will, DuPage, Kane, Lake and McHenry counties. The backbone of Chicago’s suburbs, Pace serves tens of thousands of daily riders. One of the largest bus services in North America, Pace covers 3,677 square miles, an area nearly the size of the state of Connecticut and about 15 times the size of the City of Chicago. Pace’s innovative approach to public transportation gives the agency a national reputation as an industry leader.
 

South Suburban College’s Department of Continuing, Corporate, and Community Education Launches New Classes for the Spring 2023 Term

SOUTH HOLLAND, IL – South Suburban College’s (SSC) non-credit sector, comprised of Continuing, Corporate, and Community Education (C3), is launching new courses for the public to enjoy in Spring 2023. The new Spring 2023 courses include painting, balloon for profit, and two safety training courses for the public. The painting course will include a sip-and-paint theme, the balloon-for-profit course will show participants how to make balloon animals as a business professional, and the first aid courses will aid individuals seeking Cardio Pulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) training.

The American Heart Association (AHA) Basic Life Support (BLS) Healthcare Provider CPR course will run on Tuesday, March 14, Saturday, March 18, and Tuesday, March 28, at various times. The course has an age requirement of 18 and older and prepares healthcare professionals to perform high-quality CPR for victims of all ages. This course is designed for individuals who must take a healthcare provider course for employment or as a prerequisite for Advanced Cardiovascular Life Support (ACLS), Pediatric Advanced Life Support (PALS), and BLS instructor courses. The cost of the course is $89.

The AHA’S Heart Saver Total First Aid CPR Automatic External Defibrillator (AED) course includes student training supplies, a workbook, and a digital certification. The course runs Tuesday, March 14, and Tuesday, March 28, at various times. The course trains participants to provide first aid, CPR, and how to use an AED in a safe, timely, and effective manner. The comprehensive curriculum is designed to meet licensing requirements for Occupational Safety Health Administration (OSHA) and other regulatory agencies. The course is for individuals with limited medical training who need a course completion card for employment or those who want to prep for an emergency in any setting. The cost of the course is $99.

Registration for the non-credit courses is strongly suggested. Classes are held at SSC’s Oak Forest Campus, 16333 S. Kilbourn Ave., Oak Forest, IL 60452. For more information, please contact the C3 office at 708-596-2000, ext. 2231.

Free Learning Opportunities Available and Volunteers Needed for the South Suburban College Literacy Tutoring Program

SOUTH HOLLAND, IL – South Suburban College (SSC) is seeking participants for the Adult Volunteer Literacy Tutoring Program. The program is structured to train volunteers to become one-on-one tutors for adults needing basic literacy skills. Instruction in basic literacy includes the development of phonetic reading skills, whole language experience, and effective communication skills. Residents can volunteer as tutors and encourage others to take advantage of this free professional development opportunity.

Once certified, SSC’s volunteer literacy tutors visit adult learners at locations in or near their neighborhoods. Tutoring is flexibly scheduled based on the availability of tutors, learners, and tutoring sites. The following locations have been established as tutoring sites: Acorn Public Library, Oak Forest; Glenwood-Lynwood Library; Harvey Public Library; Phoenix Public Library; Calumet City Public Library; Grande Prairie Library, Hazel Crest; Homewood Public Library; South Holland Public Library; South Suburban College Main Campus Library, South Holland; South Suburban College Oak Forest Center Library, Oak Forest; Lansing Public Library; Dolton Public Library; Riverdale Public Library; Blue Island Public Library; Dixmoor Public Library; Tinley Park Public Library; Markham Public Library; Midlothian Public Library; and Thornton Public Library.

Illiteracy can be debilitating for adults who have yet to receive the proper instruction. Adults who cannot read experience difficulty completing many daily activities that others may take for granted, along with a disadvantage in today’s competitive job market.

SSC’s Office of Adult Education administers the Adult Volunteer Literacy (AVL) Tutoring Program in addition to High School Equivalency (HSE), English as a Second Language (ESL), and Adult Basic Education (ABE). These opportunities are made possible by a grant awarded by the Illinois State Library (ISL), a division of the Office of the Secretary of State, using state funds designated for literacy.

The March training will occur at the SSC’s Oak Forest Campus in Oak Forest on Tuesdays and Thursdays from March 7 through March 23, 2023, from 3:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. This 12-hour program culminates with literacy training certification. Tutors will continue to receive free professional development services throughout this program. Successful tutors are also eligible for letters of support or recommendation for jobs, scholarships, educational opportunities, and more. For additional information or to register, please get in touch with David Stephens, Adult Literacy Grants Manager, at (708) 596-2000, ext. 2558, or email DStephens@ssc.edu.
 

An arial photo of the South Suburban College Main Campus located in South Holland, Illinois.
PICTURED: The South Suburban College Main Campus located in South Holland, Illinois.

South Suburban College Launches New Hospitality Management Program as Spring 2023 Registration Options Are Still Available

SOUTH HOLLAND, IL–South Suburban College (SSC) launched classes for the Spring 2023 Semester on Tuesday, January 17, 2023. SSC continues its efforts to provide affordable and flexible class options for college degree seekers with a wide range of course delivery selections. In early 2023, the college launched marketing efforts for the newly established Hospitality Management Program. The Hospitality Management Program through SSC prepares students for entry-level employment or other skills advancement in the hospitality industry based on the American Hotel & Lodging Association (AHLA) and American National Standards Institute (ANSI)-Conference for Food Protection (CFP)standards. The hospitality sector includes accommodation and food services establishments as part of the service industry. Students will gain specific knowledge and skillsets related to hotel operations, event planning, and safe handling of food products for preparation and consumption. Students taking the first course in the degree/certification program ‘BUS 102: Introduction to Hospitality’ will also take the ServSafe Food Handler exam to become employed in the field in as little as eight weeks. In addition, students can add stackable certifications toward achieving the Associate in Applied Science (AAS) degree within two years. 

During the late start 2023 registration period, SSC will offer an Introduction to Event Planning course on March 20 for students interested in starting the program. In addition, incoming students who do not live in-district may qualify for in-district tuition rates.

New and currently enrolled students can choose from SSC’s High Five modes of course delivery, including in-person, online, virtual, simulcast, and blended delivery methods. Students are encouraged to register early to secure their preferred mode of instruction and schedule. SSC has established a plan to allow students to sign up for classes without being dropped for non-payment. The college offers several programs for eligible students, including special tuition rates, tuition-free course waivers, scholarship opportunities, and more than a hundred pathway options. Classes for the Spring 2023 Semester have begun, with course and registration available through Monday, March 20, 2023. SSC’s online application, registration services, and class schedule are easily accessible at ssc.edu

For information about SSC’s Hospitality Management Program, please contact Dr. Ona Johnson at (708) 596-2000 x2357 or via email at ojohnson@ssc.edu. To inquire about SSC’s enrollment process, please call the Office of Admissions at (708) 210-5718 or email admissions@ssc.edu. Para Información En Español Llame: (708) 210-5740. The South Suburban College Main Campus is located at 15800 South State Street, South Holland, Illinois. The college’s extension site, the Oak Forest Center, is located at 16333 South Kilbourn Avenue, Oak Forest, Illinois.
 

An arial photo of the South Suburban College Main Campus located in South Holland, Illinois.
PICTURED: The South Suburban College Main Campus located in South Holland, Illinois.

The Art and Design Department of South Suburban College Present an Exhibition by Jon Seals

SOUTH HOLLAND, IL–The Art & Design Department of South Suburban College (SSC) is pleased to announce a special guest artist exhibition entitled “Sand, Silt & Other Sorrows” by Jon Seals. The series of mixed media art will be on display in the Photo Four Gallery at SSC from Wednesday, March 1 – Thursday, April 20, 2023, with an artist talk and reception on Tuesday, March 21, 2023, from 1-2 p.m., in the Photo Four Gallery.

Seals is a conceptual artist, teacher, and curator. He holds a Master of Arts in Religion from Yale Divinity School and Yale Institute of Sacred Music and a Master of Fine Arts in Painting from Savannah College of Art and Design. Seals have exhibited his artwork in solo and group art exhibitions in galleries and colleges throughout the United States and have curated an annual art exhibition at Yale’s Institute of Sacred Music. His artistic practice explores how identity relates to memory, loss, and redemption in visual culture.

“I create mixed-media works with materials harvested directly from bodies of water and land with severe shifts in natural environments. Artworks are created by pouring, dipping, and combining hand-drawn and painted elements using the materials collected. I work directly from the soil, water, and plant life”, stated Seals. 
 
The SSC Photo Four Gallery is open Monday-Thursday, 9-5 p.m. The galleries are closed on weekends and holidays. The public is welcome to visit art exhibitions and receptions at no charge. For more information, please call Pamela Planera at (708) 596-2000, ext. 2211, or email at pplanera@ssc.edu. SSC is located at 15800 South State Street, South Holland, Illinois. 
 

Kankakee River dirt and water, by artist Jon Seals.
PICTURED: “Kankakee River dirt and water”, acrylic paint, mica powder, on paper mounted to wood 6” x 18” 2021, artist Jon Seals.

South Suburban College Board of Trustees Celebrates Women’s Soccer Team Regional Title

SOUTH HOLLAND, IL– South Suburban College (SSC) women’s soccer team was honored by the SSC Board of Trustees on Thursday, February 9, for receiving the regional title from the National Junior College Athletic Association (NJCAA). The soccer team, coached by Jose Gonzalez, finished the 2022 season with an overall record of 13 wins, five loses and one tie.

“I want to thank everyone here for all the administrative support to make something like this happen. It takes a lot as we want to ensure we run a program where students can evolve to be productive citizens. The young ladies on my team are community members, and some are children of SSC graduates,” stated Coach Gonzalez.

Coach Gonzalez, current Dean at Thornwood High School and voted District Coach of the Year in the last two seasons, has had two Regional Players of the Year, two All-American players, and two Academic All-Americans. SSC student Amaris Gonzalez was named the United Soccer Coaches Association Soccer Scholar-Athlete of the Year. In addition, he has recently had two players commit to play for four-year institutions, one for Indiana University Northwest and Purdue University.

During the evening board celebration, the SSC Board of Trustees acknowledged the accomplishments of Coach Gonzalez and the entire athletic division at SSC. In an emotional statement, SSC Trustee Joseph Whittington congratulated Coach Gonzalez, “I watched him grow, and I want to let you know you have a great future. Thank you from the SSC Board of Trustees and the local community.”

Later in the evening, Dr. Deborah Baness King, the SSC Vice-President of Student & Enrollment Services/Title IX Coordinator, announced that the SSC athletic division accomplished a historic feat, as all its’ sports teams have at some point won a regional championship. SSC Chairman Terry Wells continued his sentiments of the historic feat by stating that the soccer team joins other successful SSC sports teams, such as the men’s basketball and the men’s baseball teams, in successful runs.

“We are really the school of champions, and it was confirmed tonight. Excellent job!” stated Chairman Wells.

If you are interested in participating in the SSC Women’s Soccer program, contact Coach Jose Gonzalez, SSC’S Women’s Soccer Coach, at (708) 596-2000 ext. 2002 or via email at jgonzalez@ssc.edu. The South Suburban College Main Campus is located at 15800 South State Street, South Holland, Illinois. The college’s extension site, the Oak Forest Center, is located at 16333 South Kilbourn Avenue, Oak Forest, Illinois.

 

A photo of the SSC Women’s Soccer Team with the Board of Trustees
PICTURED: South Suburban College (SSC) Board of Trustees and Women’s Soccer Team. Front row (left to right): Student Estefani del Rio, Student Sandra Flores, Student Stephanie Mendoza, Student Fernanda Sanchez, Student Emily Sanchez, and Student Monse Solis. Middle Row (left to right): SSC Trustee Vivian Payne, Student Adriana Moreno, Student Yulissa, Student Lozano, Student Lisbeth Gallegos, Student Emily Mendoza, Student Amaris Gonzalez, Student Naomy Gallardo, and Student Jasmine Huerta. Standing Third row (left to right): Coach Bert Damian, Student Priscilla Sotelo, Student Sabrina Ortiz, Student Mia Cruz, SSC Chairman Terry Wells, Coach Tony Gonzalez, Student Daisy Rodriguez, Student Analisa Martinez, Student Crystal Sotelo, Coach Lisa Urbina, SSC Trustee Vincent Lockett, SSC Trustee Prince Reed and Coach Aaron Zambrano. Standing Fourth Row (left to right): SSC Trustee Joseph Whittington, SSC Trustee Anthony DeFilippo and SSC Trustee Janet Rogers.

Spring Registration Open for Free High School Equivalency and English as a Second Language Courses at South Suburban College

SOUTH HOLLAND, IL– The South Suburban College (SSC) Adult Education Department has opened registration for its free High School Equivalency (HSE/GED) and English as a Second Language (ESL) programs. Both programs will run through April 6 during the Spring 2023 Semester. Most Adult Education programs are offered full and part-time at the Main Campus in South Holland or the Oak Forest Center. Daytime, nighttime, and online course options are available.

Many adults choose to further their skills and pursue high school education through the High School Equivalency (HSE/GED) program. The HSE program will develop the skills required to pass the High School Equivalency exams. HSE for ESL is also available for intermediate and advanced-level ESL students who plan to take the HSE/GED exam in English. English as a Second Language (ESL) allows non-native students to improve their English skills from beginning to advanced levels.

HSE registration is made by appointment only at (708) 596-2000, ext. 2475 or 2411, or online at https://bit.ly/3JKq79G as follows:

  • February 13th, 21st, 27th; March 7th & 9th; April 4th – 6th at the Main Campus, Room L233.

ESL registration is made by appointment only at (708) 596-2000, ext. 2408 or 2410, or online at https://bit.ly/3Ae2VxA as follows:

  • February 13th, 15th, 21st, 23rd, 27th; March 1st, 7th, 9th; and April 4th – 6th at the Main Campus, Room 1243.

All HSE and ESL incoming students will take a placement test at the time of registration and should expect to stay at least three hours. No children are allowed at registration. Incoming students of both the HSE and ESL programs are expected to arrive on time.

The following items are required at registration:

  • Current Illinois-Issued Photo ID
  • High School Withdrawal Letter (for students under 18)
  • Medical Card (if applicable)

All courses are offered free of charge. To comply with Section 511 of Public Law 101-166 (the Stevens Amendment), Federal funds of $447,185 provide approximately 45% of the support of these programs. Indiana residents are not eligible to participate in Adult Education programs.

South Suburban College to Host Forklift Operator Training Courses at Oak Forest Center

SOUTH HOLLAND, IL– South Suburban College’s (SSC) Department of Continuing, Corporate, and Community Education (C3) is offering Forklift Operator Training in March and April 2023 at the Oak Forest Center. This certification course covers the basic forklift driving skills needed for a Forklift Operator Certification.

Each course costs $179.00 per person or is FREE for qualified applicants through Workforce Equity Initiative (WEI). The sessions will be held as follows:

  • Saturday, March 18: 8:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.
  • Saturday, April 1: 8:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.
  • Saturday, April 15: 8:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.
  • Wednesday and Thursday, April 19 & 20: 5:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m.

The Forklift Operator Certification from the National Safety Council is available through these sessions at SSC for individuals looking for new career skills or for employers who are ensuring a safe and compliant workplace. Illinois requires all forklift operators to obtain a license to avoid OSHA sanctions and possible penalties. Forklift driving is no simple matter; it causes more than 100 deaths yearly. A Certification Card from the National Safety Council will be issued to the student upon completing the program. The course will enforce social distancing and the use of PPEs.

WEI Sponsored Program: WEI is free for qualified applicants. The project is funded through ICCB to support eligible participants through completing short-term educational opportunities leading to employment. Benefits of the grant include free tuition and technology assistance, tutoring, academic and career advising, and more. Email workforceequity@ssc.edu or visit ssc.edu/wei for more information.

For more information, please contact Gervaise Edwards at (708) 596-2000, ext. 5723 or email gedwards@ssc.edu. SSC’s Oak Forest Center is located at 16333 S. Kilbourn, Oak Forest, Illinois, with convenient access from I-57, I-80, and I-294.

Public Notice of Upcoming Accreditation Review Visit by the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing

SOUTH HOLLAND, IL –South Suburban College wishes to announce that it will host a site visit for initial accreditation of its associate nursing program by the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) Associate Degree.

You are invited to meet with the site visit team and share your comments about the program in person at a meeting scheduled for 3:30p on Wednesday, February 22, in MB conference room of South Suburban College located at 15800 South State Street, South Holland, Illinois.

Written comments are also welcome and should be submitted directly to:

Dr. Nell Ard, Interim Chief Executive Officer
Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing
3390 Peachtree Road Northeast, Suite I400
Atlanta, GA 30326
Or email: nard@acenursing.org

 
All written comments should be received by the ACEN by Monday before, February 20, 2023.

Free Learning Opportunities Available and Volunteers Needed for the South Suburban College Literacy Tutoring Program

SOUTH HOLLAND, IL – South Suburban College (SSC) is seeking participants for the Adult Volunteer Literacy Tutoring Program. The program is structured to train volunteers to become one-on-one tutors for adults in need of basic literacy skills. Instruction in basic literacy includes the development of phonetic reading skills, whole language experience, combined with effective communication skills. Residents are welcome to volunteer as tutors and encourage others to take advantage of this free professional development opportunity.

Once certified, SSC’s volunteer literacy tutors visit adult learners at locations in or near their neighborhoods. Tutoring is flexibly scheduled based on the availability of tutors, learners, and tutoring sites. The following locations have been established as tutoring sites: Acorn Public Library, Oak Forest; Glenwood-Lynwood Library; Harvey Public Library; Phoenix Public Library; Calumet City Public Library; Grande Prairie Library, Hazel Crest; Homewood Public Library; South Holland Public Library; South Suburban College Main Campus Library, South Holland; South Suburban College Oak Forest Center Library, Oak Forest; Lansing Public Library; Dolton Public Library; Riverdale Public Library; Blue Island Public Library; Dixmoor Public Library; Tinley Park Public Library; Markham Public Library; Midlothian Public Library; and Thornton Public Library.

Illiteracy can be debilitating in many ways for adults who never received the proper instruction. Adults who are unable to read experience difficulty completing many daily activities that others may take for granted, along with a disadvantage in today’s competitive job market.

SSC’s Office of Adult Education administers the Adult Volunteer Literacy (AVL) Tutoring Program in addition to High School Equivalency (HSE), English as a Second Language (ESL), and Adult Basic Education (ABE). These opportunities are made possible by a grant awarded by the Illinois State Library (ISL), a division of the Office of the Secretary of State, using state funds designated for literacy.

The February training will take place at the South Suburban College Main Campus in South Holland on Tuesdays and Thursdays from February 7 through February 23, 2023 from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. This 12-hour program culminates with literacy training certification. Tutors will continue to receive free professional development services throughout this program. Successful tutors are also eligible for letters of support or recommendation for jobs, scholarships, educational opportunities, and more. For additional information, or to register, please contact David Stephens, Adult Literacy Grants Manager, at (708) 596-2000, ext. 2558, or email DStephens@ssc.edu.
 

An arial photo of the South Suburban College Main Campus located in South Holland, Illinois.
PICTURED: The South Suburban College Main Campus located in South Holland, Illinois.

South Suburban College to Host Welcome Celebration for Returning Students and Rucker Cafe

SOUTH HOLLAND, IL – South Suburban College (SSC) will host a welcome back celebration on February 1st, 12 pm – 2 pm, for SSC students and the new eatery Rucker Cafe. The Welcome Back event is an extension of the Spring 2023 Registration Campaign, which encouraged early registration through swag bag items and raffle prizes for students who enrolled before December 31, 2022, and remained registered through the February 1, 2023 deadline. The Welcome Back celebration will announce the student winners of the swag bag items and raffle prizes while inviting the public to enjoy Rucker Cafe. The event will take place in the SSC cafeteria of the main campus in South Holland, with brief commentary from De’Andre Rucker – Rucker Cafe Owner, Dr. Lynette Stokes – President of SSC, and Terry Wells – SSC Board Chairman. Following brief remarks, there will be a short ribbon-cutting ceremony for Rucker Cafe and a general social hour for attendees. To celebrate the official opening of the Rucker Cafe, attendees will receive a complimentary dessert for every meal purchased from 12 pm – 2 pm. In addition, Rucker Cafe will sign up qualifying SSC students to receive a free tablet if they are Pell grant recipients. 

Rucker Cafe opened on January 18 at the SSC main campus in South Holland, Illinois. The cafe offers various menu options, including salads, smoothies, and lunch items. “We are honored and elated to be a part of such a great organization as South Suburban College! Rucker Cafe is committed to delivering exceptional customer service and quality food daily. Thank you again for believing in us and allowing us to serve you daily”, stated De’Andre Rucker.

The event is free and open to the public. For additional information, please contact Zanetta Miller, Executive Director of Public Relations and Resource Development, at (708) 596-2000, ext. 5846, or email zmiller@ssc.edu.
 

A photo of the Rucker Cafe in South Suburban College
PICTURED: Rucker Cafe located at South Suburban College’s Main Campus located in South Holland, Illinois.

South Suburban College Head Men’s Basketball Coach John Pigatti Inducted into the NJCAA Region-IV Hall of Fame

SOUTH HOLLAND, IL– The head men’s Basketball Coach John Pigatti at South Suburban College (SSC), was inducted into the National Junior College Athletic Association’s (NJCAA) Region IV Hall of Fame. Pigatti has been the head coach at SSC for the past 17 years. He has a career coaching record of 480-88 (.845) and an impressive 265-15 (.946) home record. Last season, he led the Bulldogs to a perfect 33-0 record and an NJCAA Division II National Championship. It was the only time in history that a team went undefeated and won the NJCAA Division II National Championship.

During his robust coaching career, he has won 12 Region IV Championships at SSC and has been named Region IV Coach of the Year 12 times. In addition, Pigatti has coached the last three national players of the year with five total. He has had 16 All-Americans and 13 named to the 1st team. Last season he received the National Two-Year College Coach of the Year award and was the 2017 College Insider’s Jack Bennett Man-of-the-Year Recipient.

If you want to learn more about SSC’s Athletic Program, contact Steve Ruzich, Athletic Director, at (708) 596-2000, ext. 2524. SSC’s main campus is located at 15800 South State Street, South Holland, Illinois. The college’s extension site, the Oak Forest Center, is located at 16333 South Kilbourn Avenue, Oak Forest, Illinois.

A photo of South Suburban College Men's Coach John Pigatti
PICTURED: South Suburban College Men’s Coach John Pigatti.

Notice of Education Officers Electoral Board Meeting

Please be advised that the duly constituted Education Officers Electoral Board will meet on to issue the decision regarding objections to nomination papers of candidates for election for Member of the Board of Trustees of Community College District 510, South Suburban College, County of Cook, State of Illinois at the following time and location:

Thursday, January 26, 2023 at
6:00 p.m. in the
South Suburban College Board Room
15800 S. State Street
South Holland, Illinois 60473

South Suburban College Board of Trustees Celebrates Men’s Baseball Team Regional Title

SOUTH HOLLAND, IL– South Suburban College (SSC) men’s baseball team was honored by the SSC Board of Trustees on Thursday, January 12, for receiving their fourteenth regional title from the National Junior College Athletic Association. The baseball team, coached by Steve Ruzich, has an overall record of 42-19 with a regional championship score of 9-8.

“It was a challenging season dealing with the horrible spring weather. I am so proud of these players for what they accomplished. They were dedicated and worked hard, which is why they are champions,” stated Coach Ruzich.

Coach Ruzich has had twenty-four players drafted by major league teams, including six players that have reached the big leagues. As a previous player, Steve was named second-team All-American Catcher, All-District Catcher, and All-Area Catcher.

During the evening board celebration, the SSC Board of Trustees acknowledged the accomplishments of Coach Ruzich and the baseball team while encouraging continued success in 2023. SSC Chairman Terry Wells added that the baseball team joins other successful SSC sports teams, such as the Women’s Soccer Team and the Men’s Basketball Team, in successful runs.

“We should consider adding the school of champions to our moniker in the future, Congrats Team,” stated Chairman Wells.

In an interview with the SSC PR team, baseball player Donavan Noble stated, “Being recognized by the SSC Board Members was an honor. Listening to what they said in terms of congratulating us meant a lot. I want to give a big thank you to all of them.” Noble stated that he looks forward to working with his teammates and reaching new heights as a team for the 2023 season.

If you are interested in participating in the SSC Men’s Baseball program, contact Coach Steve Ruzich, Director of Athletics, at (708) 596-2000 ext. 5843 or via email at sruzich@ssc.edu. The South Suburban College Main Campus is located at 15800 South State Street, South Holland, Illinois. The college’s extension site, the Oak Forest Center, is located at 16333 South Kilbourn Avenue, Oak Forest, Illinois.
 

A photo of SSC Board of Trustees and Baseball Team
PICTURED: South Suburban College (SSC) Board of Trustees and Baseball Team.
FRONT ROW (left to right): SSC Board Chairman Terry R. Wells, SSC Baseball player Donavan Noble, SSC Baseball player Scoot Hansen, SSC Baseball player Jimmy Burke, SSC Baseball player Ulysses Munoz, and SSC Baseball player Juni Song.
BACK ROW (left to right): SSC Board Trustee Vincent Lockett and SSC Baseball Coach Steve Ruzich.

South Suburban College to Host Workforce Program Virtual Open Houses in January

SOUTH HOLLAND, IL–South Suburban College (SSC) is hosting virtual open houses for the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) program via Zoom on Tuesday, January 24, 2023 at noon and Thursday, January 26, 2023 at 5:00 p.m. The open houses will allow the public to learn about accessing employment, education, training, and support services to succeed in the labor market. Specifically, the public will learn about Accounting, Cisco Network Technician, Coding, Medical Assistant, Associate Degree Nursing (ADN), Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA), Phlebotomy, Patient Care Technician, Pharmacy Technician, Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) and Welding specialties.

WIOA is designed to create, support and expand workforce training opportunities among youth and adults. WIOA ensures the barriers to employment, high-quality jobs and careers are removed so employers can hire skilled workers. The workforce development programs ensure that employers and job seekers needs are met through strategic plans, accountability, performance goals, regional collaboration, and transparency.

The community is invited to learn about the benefits of the WIOA program and its certificate/degree tracks. The public is encouraged to register in advance for the open house via Zoom on January 24 at: https://zoom.us/meeting/register/tJEqfu6pqTwrH9wTDE83ttY6-oSCtjPPkeuK. Those interested in attending the open house via Zoom on January 26 are also encouraged to register in advance at: https://zoom.us/meeting/register/tJAkdOCurDItHN1XXFY-y2h8RNaIig2Zw7CK. For more information about the SSC WIOA program, please contact Kenneth Cohn, Director of Workforce Development, at (708) 596-2000, ext. 6040, or email KCohn@ssc.edu.

The Spring 2023 Semester begins at South Suburban College on Tuesday, January 17, 2023. Class schedules, registration services and a “live chat” option are available online at ssc.edu

Local leaders to Commemorate the Life of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. at South Suburban College on January 16 in the Kindig Performing Arts Center

SOUTH HOLLAND, IL– South Suburban College (SSC) will commemorate the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. on January 16, 2023, at 10:00 am. The celebration will occur at SSC’s Kindig Performing Arts Center in South Holland, Illinois. The event will include an array of guest speakers comprised of local community leaders, a keynote address, performances by students from Thornton Township High School District 205, and refreshments.

The in-person celebration on the 94th birthday of Dr. King will focus on the theme of ”Restoration of Unity and Peace”. The event will feature guest speakers Illinois State Senator Napoleon B. Harris, SSC Chairman Terry Wells, SSC President Dr. Lynette Stokes, Thornton Township High School District 205 Board of Education President Nina Graham, Thornton Township High School District 205 Superintendent Dr. Nathaniel Cunningham, Jr., Thornton Township High School District 205 Student Board of Education President Eghosa Omosigh, and Rev. Dr. Patrick Daymond of Covenant United Church of Christ. “This year, we are honored to host this celebration in person at SSC with local leaders and community members. I am honored to celebrate the legacy of Dr. King through this year’s theme, ‘Restoration of Unity and Peace.’ We invite the public to join us at this celebratory event honoring Dr. King,” said SSC Chairman Terry Wells.

This year’s Martin Luther King, Jr. celebration is in partnership with SSC, the Thornton Township High School District 205, and Event Chairperson Dr. Jerry Doss. The event is free, and doors open at 9:00 am. To learn more about the Martin Luther King, Jr. Day celebration at SSC, please contact Zanetta Miller, Executive Director of Public Relations and Resource Development, at 708-225-5846 or via email at zmiller@ssc.edu.

South Suburban College First to Launch Program in South Cook County in Partnership with Pace Bus in Free* CDL Permit Training

SOUTH HOLLAND, IL– South Suburban College (SSC) and Pace Bus are pleased to announce their partnership to provide a free CDL Class B commercial driver’s license permit course for the next generation of professional bus operators in the Chicago Southland region. The college and transportation agency have teamed up to offer a customized two-week period to assist qualified applicants in obtaining their CDL permit. To remove financial barriers for students to pursue and complete the program actively, Pace will cover the costs of tuition, training, books, fees, and other expenses associated with the program. In addition, in partnership with Pace, SSC’s Work Equity Initiative will provide additional support and resources to students completing the Pace training.

On January 17, 2023, South Suburban College will host a pre-hire event for job seekers to meet with Pace staff. During the 3-hour event, which begins at 6 pm, applicants will complete a screening process which includes application completion, an assessment questionnaire, and a background check. All candidates must bring a valid Illinois driver’s license and a DMV or Secretary of State Motor Vehicle Report (MVR) (also called Driving Record Abstracts in Illinois) with no more than two infractions or tickets in the last five years.

Assessment results will be available 2-4 days after the event, when candidates must complete an Illinois Department of Transportation physical and drug screening. Pace will cover the cost of these screenings. Candidates who pass these screenings will be enrolled in a training course that will take place in February at South Suburban College.

In a meeting on Tuesday, November 22, SSC President Dr. Lynette D. Stokes, SSC Vice President of Academic Services Dr. Tasha Williams, Pace Safety and Training Manager Sharri Pappas, and Pace Chief Operating Officer Lindsey Umek, celebrated the successful partnership between the two entities as it will be the first for the South Suburbs. “I am excited to have SSC be the first in this area to launch an opportunity of this magnitude. At SSC, we are dedicated to providing high-quality education, training, and services for all individuals who can benefit from our programs. In addition, we want to provide accessible and affordable programs to a diverse community of learners in collaboration with local businesses. Our partnership with Pace Bus embodies all of these key tenets,” stated SSC President Dr. Stokes.

“Pace offers rewarding careers and a path to success for people who are passionate about public service. We are thrilled to partner with South Suburban College on this effort,” said Pace Executive Director Melinda Metzger. “Offering this free course creates a win-win for everyone. Those looking for a new career get access to the free instruction they need, and Pace gets the operators it needs to keep providing the essential service our region relies on.”

The program will run through SSC’s Continuing Education Program, with classes being offered at its main campus. Dr. Matt Beasland, Executive Director of the Oak Forest Center, stated, “The program is a first in this region, and we are excited to bring this opportunity to the local community. The opportunity will provide jobs and livable wages with minimum pay starting at $20.00”.

Qualified candidates who complete the two-week will transition to a six-week on-the-job training with Pace. For more information about the CDL Class B licensure program with SSC and Pace Bus, please get in touch with SSC’s Continuing Education Program at 708-596-2000 ext. 5723.

* Candidates are responsible for the cost of the MVR, which is $12.


About South Suburban College
South Suburban College (SSC) is a public community college in South Holland, Illinois with a second campus located in Oak Forest, Illinois. The College offers over 100 program options from a wide selection of career education and college transfer credit programs. Additionally, SSC offers non-credit customized training, short-term instruction for business, and dozens of special interest classes. The College has a state-of-the-art Performing Arts Center. A variety of cultural events are sponsored by the College, including plays, comedy acts, special lectures, and concerts, adding to the richness of the performing arts in the south suburbs.

About Pace Suburban Bus
Pace Suburban Bus safely and efficiently moves people to work, school, and other regional destinations with its family of public transportation services. Pace offers affordable and environmentally responsible transit options
for the residents of 272 municipalities in Cook, Will, DuPage, Kane, Lake and McHenry counties. The backbone of Chicago’s suburbs, Pace serves tens of thousands of daily riders. One of the largest bus services in North America, Pace covers 3,677 square miles, an area nearly the size of the state of Connecticut and about 15 times the size of the City of Chicago. Pace’s innovative approach to public transportation gives the agency a national reputation as an industry leader.

South Suburban College to Host Work Equity Initiative Virtual Open House in December

South Holland, IL–South Suburban College (SSC) is hosting a virtual open house for the Work Equity Initiative (WEI) Sponsored programs via Zoom on December 14, 2022, at 5:00 pm. The open house will allow the public to gain more information on the WEI Sponsored Programs such as Community Health Worker, Barbering, Basic Nursing Assistant, Solar Photovoltaic, Forklift, Patient Care Technician, and Pharmacy Technician.

The WEI project is designed to create, support, and expand short-term workforce training opportunities in high-need areas. The project is anticipated to yield impactful outcomes for individuals, families, communities, and local businesses through new programs, expanded access, opportunity, and support services. The WEI grant provides wrap-around services, including comprehensive financial assistance and academic support to participating students within various program areas providing stackable credentials.

The community is invited to learn about the benefits of the WEI Sponsored Programs and certificate tracks. The community can register and access the Zoom link from the WEI Registration page. For more information about the WEI Program and the upcoming open house, please get in touch with the WEI Program Office at (708) 596-2000 ext. 2413.

The Spring 2023 Semester begins at South Suburban College on January 17, 2023. Class schedules, registration services, and a “live chat” option are available online at ssc.edu.

South Suburban College Election Pre-Filing Notice

SOUTH HOLLAND, IL – Notice is hereby given that the office of Patrick Rush, Secretary to the South Suburban College Board of Trustees, will be open in Room 1234 of the College’s Main Campus from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. on weekdays beginning December 12, 2022 through December 19, 2022 for the purpose of accepting candidate petitions or certificates for the consolidated election to be held on April 4, 2023 for the following:

  • South Suburban College Trustee – 6-year term
  • South Suburban College Trustee – 6-year term
  • South Suburban College Trustee – 6-year term
  • South Suburban College Trustee – 4-year term

The lottery for ballot positioning will be held on Tuesday, December 20th at 10:00 a.m. in Room 1233.

The Main Campus is located at 15800 South State Street, South Holland, Illinois. Mr. Rush can be reached at (708) 210-5721.

South Suburban College Offers Various Incentives for Spring 2023 Semester Registration

SOUTH HOLLAND, IL–South Suburban College (SSC) has established various registration incentives for the Spring 2023 Semester. Every student registered on or before Saturday, December 31, 2022, and enrolled by Wednesday, February 1, 2023 will receive a branded SSC bag, t-shirt, lanyard, and a $5 gift certificate to the new vendor in the cafeteria on the Main Campus in South Holland. These students will also be entered to win one of ten prizes, including a free course waiver to be used during the Summer 2023 or Fall 2023 Semester. Other items consist of $300 and $100 vouchers to the SSC Bookstore, also located on the college’s Main Campus. All incentives are only available for credit and adult education students.

Registration is currently in progress for the Spring 2023 Semester. SSC has established a plan to allow students to sign up for classes without being dropped for non-payment. The college offers several programs for eligible students, including special tuition rates, tuition-free course waivers, scholarship opportunities, and more than one hundred educational pathways to success.

Students are encouraged to register early to secure their preferred mode of instruction and schedule. SSC continues its efforts to provide affordable and flexible class options for college degree seekers with a wide range of course delivery selections. New and currently enrolled students can choose from SSC’s High Five modes of course delivery, including in-person, online, virtual, simulcast and blended delivery methods.

Classes for the Spring 2023 Semester at SSC begin the week of Monday, January 17, 2022. Preferred registration ends on Monday, January 30, 2023, with course options available through Monday, March 20, 2023. SSC’s online application, registration services, and class schedule are easily accessible at ssc.edu.

Call the Office of Admissions at (708) 210-5718 or email admissions@ssc.edu for information about SSC’s enrollment process. Para Información En Español Llame: (708) 210-5740. The South Suburban College Main Campus is located at 15800 South State Street, South Holland, Illinois. The college’s extension site, the Oak Forest Center, is located at 16333 South Kilbourn Avenue, Oak Forest, Illinois.
 

An aerial photo of the South Suburban College Main Campus in South Holland, Illinois.
PICTURED: The South Suburban College Main Campus in South Holland, Illinois.

Spring Registration Open for Free High School Equivalency and English as a Second Language Courses at South Suburban College – UPDATED

SOUTH HOLLAND, IL– The South Suburban College (SSC) Adult Education Department has opened registration for its free High School Equivalency (HSE/GED) and English as a Second Language (ESL) programs. Both programs will run from January 17 through April 6 during the Spring 2023 Semester. Most of the Adult Education programs are offered both full and part-time at the Main Campus in South Holland or the Oak Forest Center. Daytime, nighttime and online course options are available.

Many adults choose to further their skills and pursue high school education through the High School Equivalency (HSE/GED) program. The HSE program will develop the skills required to pass the High School Equivalency exams. HSE for ESL is also available for intermediate and advanced level ESL students who plan to take the HSE/GED exam in English. English as a Second Language (ESL) allows non-native students to improve their English skills from beginning to advanced levels.

HSE registration is made by appointment only at (708) 596-2000, ext. 2475 or 2411, or online at https://bit.ly/3JKq79G as follows:

  • December 5, 7, 13 and 15 at 10 a.m. or 5 p.m. at the Main Campus, Room L233.

ESL registration is made by appointment only at (708) 596-2000, ext. 2408 or 2410, or online at https://bit.ly/3Ae2VxA as follows:

  • December 5, 7, 13 and 15 at 10 a.m. or 6 p.m. at the Main Campus, Room 1243.

All HSE and ESL incoming students will take a placement test at the time of registration and should expect to stay at least three hours. No children are allowed at registration. Incoming students of both the HSE and ESL programs are expected to arrive on time.

The following items are required at registration:

  • Current Illinois-Issued Photo ID
  • High School Withdrawal Letter (for students under 18)
  • Medical Card (if applicable)

All courses are offered free of charge. For the purpose of compliance with Section 511 of Public Law 101-166 (the Stevens Amendment) Federal funds of $447,185 provides approximately 45% of the support of these programs. Indiana residents are not eligible to participate in the Adult Education programs.

South Suburban College to Host Legal Studies Open Houses in December and January

OAK FOREST, IL–South Suburban College (SSC) is hosting open houses for Legal Studies Programs in December and January, including Paralegal/Legal Assistant and Court Reporting/Verbatim Technology concentrations.

The Paralegal/Legal Assistant Program at SSC prepares students to become highly trained paralegals and legal assistants. SSC has the only paralegal curriculum approved by the American Bar Association (ABA) in the Chicago Southland and Northwest Indiana region. In addition, 89% of the program graduates between August 2021 to March 2022 were working in the Legal Field within six months of graduation. The community is invited to learn about the benefits of the Associate of Applied Science degree and certificate tracks, as well as the opportunity to complete the paralegal program entirely online.

A virtual open house, highlighting the Paralegal/Legal Assistant Program, will be held on Monday, December 12, 2022 at 6 p.m. live via Zoom. Register in advance and access the link from ssc.edu/info. An in-person open house will take place on Tuesday, January 3, 2023 at 6:30 p.m. in the Law Library at the Oak Forest Center, located at 16333 S. Kilbourn Avenue, Oak Forest, IL 60452. The attendees at the January open house will receive a free digital professional headshot.

For more information about the SSC Paralegal/Legal Assistant Program, please contact Becky Walters, J.D., Paralegal Studies and Criminal Justice Program Coordinator at (708) 596-2000, ext. 2579 or email BWalters@ssc.edu.

The SSC Court Reporting/Verbatim Technology Program provides students with the opportunity to learn a unique and highly valuable hands-on skill. SSC provides the only program in the area taught at a community college. This career path offers a wide-open job market, flexible work schedule, and excellent income potential. Sophisticated technology has created exciting work in broadcast captioning and stenointerpreting.

Attend one of two virtual open houses to learn about the rewarding profession of court reporting. These sessions are available at 6:30 p.m. on Thursday, December 15, 2022 and Wednesday, January 4, 2023. Guests must RSVP in advance via email to LaTherese Cooke, Court Reporting Coordinator, at LCooke@ssc.edu to receive the virtual link. She can also be reached at (708) 596-2000, ext. 3217.

The Spring 2023 Semester begins at South Suburban College on Monday, January 17, 2023. Class schedules, registration services and a “live chat” option are available online at ssc.edu.
 

A photo of a SSC Legal Studies Students Studying in the Law Library at the Oak Forest Center.
PICTURED: South Suburban College Legal Studies Students Studying in the Law Library at the Oak Forest Center.

South Suburban College Men’s Basketball Head Coach John Pigatti Recognized by Illinois Basketball Coaches Association Hall of Fame

SOUTH HOLLAND, IL – The Illinois Basketball Coaches Association (IBCA) Hall of Fame honored John Pigatti, Head Coach of the South Suburban College (SSC) Bulldogs Basketball Team, as a recipient of the IBCA Men’s College Coach of the Year Award for the National Junior College Athletic Association Division II (NJCAA DII). Pigatti was presented with this recognition on Saturday, November 19, 2022, during his fourth home game of the 2022-23 season. The Bulldogs pulled away with an 86-37 victory over the College of Lake County in the Physical Fitness & Athletic Center at the conclusion of the game. The SSC Men’s Basketball Team, under the direction of Pigatti, are currently on a 7-0 winning streak this season.

“It is quite the honor to be recognized by the IBCA. They are an extremely prestigious organization and to be honored by them is a very humbling,” Pigatti remarked. “I give all the credit to our special players that made a historic run last year. What we did was very special, and to do it by beating every junior college team by double digits except one was even more satisfying. Our team is very proud of what we accomplished last season.”

The 2021-22 SSC Men’s Basketball Team trailblazed their way into history. Not only did they earn the college’s first-ever NJCAA DII National Championship on March 19, 2022, they also achieved the distinction as the first team in NJCAA DII history to go undefeated with a record of 33-0. Shortly thereafter, various accolades poured in as many student-athletes received post-season recognition. This was capped by Pigatti being named NJCAA DII Coach of the Year, followed by a number one ranking in the NJCAA DII pre-season poll to begin the 2022-23 season.

The SSC Men’s Basketball Program has won 40 straight games, which is the longest winning streak in all of college basketball, regardless of division. The Bulldogs have also won the most consecutive games in NJCAA DII history. The next game for the SSC Men’s Basketball Team is scheduled for Tuesday, November 29, 2022 at 7 p.m. The Bulldogs will tip-off against the Pioneers of Prairie State College in the SSC Physical Fitness & Athletic Center, located on the southwest end of the Main Campus at 15800 South State Street, South Holland, Illinois. Support the Bulldogs and the man who recently led this team to the NJCAA DII National Championship. Questions about the SSC Men’s Basketball Team can be directed to Head Coach John Pigatti at (708) 596-2000, ext. 2524.
 

A photo of South Suburban College Men’s Basketball Head Coach John Pigatti
PICTURED: South Suburban College Men’s Basketball Head Coach John Pigatti.

South Suburban College Dedicates Conference Room at Oak Forest Campus to Former Board Trustee John A. Daly Sr.

OAK FOREST, IL – South Suburban College (SSC) monthly Board of Trustees meeting included a special dedication to former Board Trustee and Vice Chair of the College’s Board John A. Daly Sr. The SSC Oak Forest Center now houses the newly renovated John A. Daly Conference Room. The dedication occurred on Thursday, November 9, 2022, among local community partners, the SSC community, the Daly family, and former colleagues of the late Daly. The ceremony commenced with brief remarks from SSC’s President, Dr. Lynette D. Stokes, who remembered Daly as a man who dedicated his life to service and advocacy for others.

Dr. Stokes stated, “As we reflect on his contributions, we have the opportunity to ask ourselves – ‘What are you doing for others?” We can all pick up the mantel of service and become better stewards of our local community.” The SSC Board Chairman, Terry Wells, mirrored similar sentiments of Dr. Stokes as he reflected on Daly’s robust career in leadership. He cited that Daly was an exemplar of someone whose life was dedicated to public service. Chairman Wells emphasized Daly’s public service by noting, “John was an elected Alderman in the City of Oak Forest, City Administrator, a past Chairman of the Chicago Southland Convention and Visitor’s Bureau, and a member of the Southwest Conference of Mayors. Daly also chaired the South Suburban Mayors and Managers Association’s Management & Finance Committee. “He concluded his brief remarks with anecdotes highlighting Daly’s devotion to SSC.

Mayor Kyle R. Hastings of Orland Hills, Illinois, reminisced on his relationship with Daly as he recalled his stoic persona while discussing his role as an Orland Hills administrator. The ceremony concluded with a letter from Illinois 15th district Senator Napoleon Harris, brief remarks from SSC Board Secretary Janet M. Rogers, and final sentiments from the son, Kevin Daly. Kevin remarked, “As you walk past the John A. Daly Conference room at this location, let it be a reminder of my father’s acts of service. ” As the event concluded, the SSC Board of Trustees, the SSC President, and the Daly family gathered for a celebratory picture. The dedication represented Daly’s long-term tenure as an SSC Board of Trustees member, his advocacy for students, and his devotion to the SSC Oak Forest Center. Daly also supported the SSC Foundation, where the Daly family established the John A. Daly Memorial Fund to help future SSC students.

If you want to learn more about the SSC Foundation or the John A. Daly Conference Center, please contact Zanetta Miller, SSC’s Executive Director of Public Relations and Resource Development, at (708) 225-5846. SSC’s main campus is at 15800 South State Street, South Holland, Illinois. The college’s extension site, the Oak Forest Center, is located at 16333 South Kilbourn Avenue, Oak Forest, Illinois.
 

A photo of South Suburban College Board members dedicating a conference room at Oak Forest Campus to former Board Trustee John A. Daly Sr.
PICTURED FROM LEFT TO RIGHT: SSC Board Trustee Vincent Lockett, SSC Board Trustee Prince Reed, SSC Board Vice-Chair Vivian Payne, Son Kevin Daly, Daughter Katelyn Daly, Wife Susan J. Daly, SSC President Dr. Lynette D. Stokes, SSC Board Chairman Terry R. Wells, Son John Daly Jr., & SSC Board Secretary Janet M. Rogers.

South Suburban College Women’s Soccer Team Claimed the Region Four Championship

SOUTH HOLLAND, IL– The Lady Bulldogs, South Suburban College (SSC) women’s soccer team, has claimed the Region Four championship for the first time in SSC’s history. With a record of 13-3-1, the Lady Bulldogs will advance to the national tournament in Tucson, Arizona. The Lady Bulldogs are the 11th-seeded team and will play Phoenix College, the number two-seeded team, on Monday, November 14, at 2:30 pm central time. On Tuesday, November 15, at 2:30 pm, the Lady Bulldogs will play number seven seed Southeastern Illinois. The winner of the pool play will advance to Friday’s semifinal game. This is the second consecutive year the Lady Bulldogs have qualified for the national tournament.

The Lady Bulldogs are coached by Jose Gonzalez, who enters his seventh year at the helm and has an overall record of 63-30-2. Gonzalez stated, ” I am humbled and honored to have the opportunity to make history with such a talented group of young ladies that have sacrificed so much to win SSC’s first Region Championship. For many of them, it’s a testament to many years of commitment and dedication to earn this accomplishment.”

If you want to learn more or are interested in participating in the women’s soccer program, please get in touch with Coach Gonzalez at (708) 596-2000, ext. 2002. SSC’s main campus is located at 15800 South State Street, South Holland, Illinois. The college’s extension site, the Oak Forest Center, is located at 16333 South Kilbourn Avenue, Oak Forest, Illinois.
 
A photo of the South Suburban College Women’s Soccer Team

South Suburban College to Host In-Person Family Reading Night on November 17

SOUTH HOLLAND, IL– South Suburban College’s (SSC) Adult Volunteer Literacy Program is hosting a Family Reading Night event on Thursday, November 17, 6:00 pm – 8:00 pm. The event will occur at the Performing Arts Center of SSC’s main campus in South Holland, Illinois. The public is encouraged to attend the free event to learn more about community literacy while enjoying stories, youth activities, and live presentations. The activities for the event will include a live puppet show, face painting, balloon art, local authors, book readings, and a youth book giveaway. Community Partners include Markham Public Library’s book truck, Burst into Books, and Doughboy’s Catering.

David Stephens, SSC Adult Literacy Grant Manager and Family Reading Night event coordinator, stated, “The literacy crisis in America is reaching critical mass. This directly affects an individual’s health and well-being. Illiteracy places an individual at a disadvantage in educational attainment, civic participation/voting activity and reduces a person’s employment opportunities leading them to have less financial security. Literacy not only enriches an individual’s quality of life, but it also provides positive outcomes in their career and income.”

Illiteracy is an issue that can be debilitating in so many ways for adults and children who never received the proper instruction. Adults who are unable to read have a difficult time with daily activities that others may take for granted, along with a clear disadvantage in today’s competitive job market. SSC’s Adult Education Department administers the Adult Volunteer Literacy Tutoring Program in addition to High School Equivalency (HSE/GED), English as a Second Language (ESL), and Adult Basic Education (ABE).

For more information about the Family Reading Night or the Adult Volunteer Literacy Program, contact David Stephens, Adult Literacy Grants Manager, at (708) 596-2000, ext. 2558, or email DStephens@ssc.edu. This event is sponsored in part by the SSC Foundation.
 

A Family Reading Night Photo, Circa 2018.
PICTURED: Family Reading Night Photo, Circa 2018.

Spring Registration Open for Free High School Equivalency and English as a Second Language Courses at South Suburban College

SOUTH HOLLAND, IL–The South Suburban College (SSC) Adult Education Department has opened registration for its free High School Equivalency (HSE/GED) and English as a Second Language (ESL) programs. Both programs will run from Tuesday, January 17, through Thursday, April 6, during the Spring 2023 Semester. Most Adult Education programs are offered full and part-time at the main campus in South Holland or the Oak Forest Center. Students have different attendance options, including daytime, nighttime, and online course options.

Many adults choose to further their skills and pursue high school education through the High School Equivalency (HSE/GED) program. The HSE program will develop the skills required to pass the High School Equivalency exams. HSE for ESL is also available for advanced ESL students who plan to take the HSE/GED exam in English. English as a Second Language (ESL) allows non-native students to improve their English skills from beginning to advanced levels.

HSE registration is made by appointment only at (708) 596-2000, ext. 2475 or 2411, or online at https://forms.gle/nBaUMMKjnMiz8RMU6 as follows:

  • November 1, 3, 9, 10, 15, 17, 28, and 30 at 10 a.m. and 5 p.m. at the Main Campus, Room L233.

ESL registration is made by appointment only at (708) 596-2000, ext. 2475 or 2411, or online at https://forms.gle/CtBYZBkaCWNSyaDC7 as follows:

  • November 1, 3, 9, 10, 15, 17, 28, and 30 at 10 a.m. and 6 p.m. at the Main Campus, Room 1243.

All HSE and ESL incoming students will take a placement test at the time of registration and should expect to stay at least three hours. No children are allowed at registration. Incoming students of both the HSE and ESL programs are expected to arrive on time.

The following items are required at registration:

  • Current Illinois-Issued Photo ID
  • High School Withdrawal Letter (for students under 18)
  • Medical Card (if applicable)

All courses are offered free of charge. For compliance with Section 511 of Public Law 101-166 (the Stevens Amendment), Federal funds of $343,670 provide approximately 36% of the support of these programs. Indiana residents are not eligible to participate in Adult Education programs.

A photo of South Suburban College’s Adult Education Students graduating
PICTURED: South Suburban College’s Adult Education Students

Wilson Yerxa’s “Aerobic Exorcise” Exhibit Now at South Suburban College’s Thiel Gallery

SOUTH HOLLAND, IL–The Art & Design Department of South Suburban College (SSC) is pleased to present an exhibition entitled “Aerobic Exorcise” by artist Wilson Yerxa. Yerxa, originally from California, has lived in Chicago since 2018 after living in New England. The exhibition, displayed in SSC’s Dorothea Thiel Gallery, commenced on Tuesday, October 18, 2022, and will run until Thursday, November 17, 2022, with an artist reception on Friday, November 4, at 10 a.m.

Yerxa stated, “My drawings and paintings are conceived of as parts. What they are is usually determined later and is subject to change. The works comprise a growing vocabulary I can source to create composite paintings and installations. As in the film, the footage comes first, then the editing. Some works stand-alone and are displayed individually, while others need to be cut up, glued, stitched, or layered, among other works. I am asking what analogies can be made between vastly different subjects. How can I fend off conclusions to recycle ideas and perspectives? I seek moments of stability within the unslowing mixture. ”

The Dorothea Thiel Gallery is on the fourth floor of SSC’s main campus. The gallery is open Monday through Friday, 9:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m., and is closed on weekends and holidays. The galleries are supported in part by the SSC Foundation. SSC is located at 15800 South State Street, South Holland, Illinois. For more information, please email etucker@ssc.edu or call (708) 596-2000, ext. 2300.
 

"Red Grapes" by Wilson Yerxa
PICTURED: The South Suburban College Main Campus in South Holland, Illinois.

South Suburban College Men’s Basketball Team Ranked the Number One Team in the Country by the NJCAA Division II Pre-Season Poll

SOUTH HOLLAND, IL– South Suburban College (SSC) men’s basketball team was ranked number one in the newest NJCAA Division II Pre-Season Poll. The 2021-2022 team had a historic season, winning the only National Championship in SSC history. They were also the only undefeated NJCAA Division II team in history to win the national championship while being undefeated. During basketball Coach John Pigatti’s 16 seasons, the team has amassed a 463-85 record.

Pigatti stated, “We are honored to be the pre-season number one ranked team in the country. It is a tribute to last year’s team and all of the prior teams. They have established a great tradition of winning here at SSC. We are excited about starting the new season. We have a lot of new players and look forward to challenges that lie ahead.”

The Bulldogs will open the 2022-2023 season on Thursday, November 3, 2022, at Wilbur Wright College in Chicago, Illinois. The Bulldogs will return four players from last year’s undefeated national Championship team. The team will vie for its 13th regional and national championship tournament appearance.

If you are interested in participating in the Men’s Basketball program, please get in touch with Coach Pigatti at (708) 596-2000, ext. 2524. The South Suburban College Main Campus is located at 15800 South State Street, South Holland, Illinois. The college’s extension site, the Oak Forest Center, is located at 16333 South Kilbourn Avenue, Oak Forest, Illinois.
 

Team photo of 2021-22 NJCAA Division II National Champion SSC Bulldogs
PICTURED: The South Suburban College Men’s Basketball Team. (Photo courtesy of njcaa.org)

Doug DeWitt’s “Suggestions of Gravity” exhibiting at South Suburban College’s Dulgar Gallery

SOUTH HOLLAND, IL– South Suburban College (SSC) Art & Design Department presents an exhibition of artist Doug DeWitt entitled “Suggestions of Gravity” in the Dulgar Gallery. The collection is available from Tuesday, October 18, through Thursday, November 17, with a closing reception on Thursday, November 17, at 11:00 am.

DeWitt stated, “My abstract found-object constructions, drawings, land art, painting, and other media are inspired by immersions in a landscape, by the colors and textures of weathered materials, and by changes occurring over time. My work presents nature without denying the intrusions of humility while evoking memories of specific places and times in the landscape.”
 
The public is welcome to visit the free art exhibition and reception, with masks and social distancing optional. The Dulgar Gallery is on the 1st floor of SSC’s Main Campus in South Holland, Illinois. The SSC Gallery hours are Monday-Thursday, 10:00 am- 6:00 pm, and Friday, 10:00 am to 5:00 pm. The public is encouraged to check the website for current Gallery hours and can also make appointments with Gallery curator Eric Tucker. The Gallery is closed on college holidays & weekends. For more information, contact Eric Tucker at (708) 596-2000, ext. 2300, or email etucker@ssc.edu. SSC’s main campus is located at 15800 South State Street, South Holland, Illinois.

South Suburban College Opens Registration for the Spring 2023 Semester

SOUTH HOLLAND, IL–South Suburban College (SSC) will launch registration for the Spring 2023 Semester on Monday, October 17, 2022. SSC continues its efforts to provide affordable and flexible class options for college degree seekers with a wide range of course delivery selections. New and currently enrolled students can choose from SSC’s High Five modes of course delivery, including in-person, online, virtual, simulcast and blended delivery methods.

Students are encouraged to register early to secure their preferred mode of instruction and schedule. SSC has established a plan to allow students to sign up for classes without being dropped for non-payment. The college offers several programs for eligible students, including special tuition rates, tuition-free course waivers, scholarship opportunities, and more than a hundred pathway options.

Classes for the Spring 2023 Semester will begin the week of Monday, January 17, 2023, at SSC. The preferred registration for the Spring 2023 Semester ends on January 30, 2023, with course options available through Monday, March 20, 2023. SSC’s online application, registration services, and class schedule are easily accessible at ssc.edu.

For information about SSC’s enrollment process, please call the Office of Admissions at (708) 210-5718 or email admissions@ssc.edu. Para Información En Español Llame: (708) 210-5740. The South Suburban College Main Campus is located at 15800 South State Street, South Holland, Illinois. The college’s extension site, the Oak Forest Center, is located at 16333 South Kilbourn Avenue, Oak Forest, Illinois.
 

A photo of South Suburban College Main Campus
PICTURED: The South Suburban College Main Campus in South Holland, Illinois.

An exhibition of paintings by Karen Ackoff are on display at South Suburban College

SOUTH HOLLAND, IL–The Art & Design Department of South Suburban College (SSC) is pleased to announce a special guest artist exhibition entitled “Murmurations” by Karen Ackoff. The photographs will display in the Photo Four Gallery at SSC from Tuesday, October 18 to Thursday, November 17, 2022. On Monday, October 24, 2022, from 12:00 pm –1:00 pm, SSC will host an artist talk in the Photo Four Gallery, located on the college’s fourth floor.

Ackoff stated, “When large numbers of birds fly together, they swirl in a repeating, coordinating, changing pattern. “Murmuration,” derived from the wings’ sound, occurs when birds flutter together. My work speaks through a network of small brush strokes like a murmuration. Together they form shapes and shadows that gradually unfold as a painting develops. My work whispers – It does not shout. My drawings are completed with care and control. Yet, they are not without passion. The passion is in each object – its shape, subtle color, and tonalities. In the stories, the object tells as brush or silver moves over the ground’s surface. Teasing out inherent beauty with focus and patience, I whisper back.” 

The SSC Photo Four Gallery is open Monday -Thursday, 9:00 am – 5:00 pm. The galleries are closed on weekends and holidays. The art exhibitions and receptions are free to the public. For additional information, please contact Pamela Planera at (708) 596-2000, ext. 2211, or email at pplanera@ssc.edu. SSC is located at 15800 South State Street in South Holland, Illinois.
 

Riatta - A painting by Karen Ackoff
PICTURED: “Riatta”. A painting by artist Karen Ackoff

South Suburban College Will Recognize Domestic Violence Awareness Month with Resource Panel and Other Activities Throughout October

SOUTH HOLLAND, IL – South Suburban College (SSC) Office on Violence Against Women (OVW), a three-year project supported by a Department of Justice grant, will raise awareness of Domestic Violence in October. The college will host several internal and external activities for SSC students, faculty/staff, and the general public.

SSC will begin the month with Purple Thursdays and Light in the Window, two initiatives to wear purple clothing and display purple window lights in businesses and homes as an act of solidarity against domestic violence. SSC students are invited to participate in live and virtual Bystander Intervention Trainings to learn how to intervene should they encounter a domestic violence situation. A virtual “Healthy Relationships” Zoom session on Wednesday, October 12, from 1:00 – 2:00 pm includes facilitators LaSandra Hutchinson and Celeste Angulo from the Anew: Building Beyond Violence & Abuse organization. The facilitators will discuss the characteristics of healthy and unhealthy relationships. The public should register by Tuesday, October 11, at 12:00 pm to Alexandra Glumac at aglumac@ssc.edu

Office on Violence Against Women (OVW) logoOn Friday, October 21, SSC will host a Dating/Domestic Violence, Sexual Assault, and Stalking Resource Forum & Expo from 8:00 – 11:00 am at the SSC Performing Arts Center. The FREE event will provide crucial domestic violence resources and is open to SSC students, faculty/staff, and the general public. Attendees will enjoy a continental breakfast, a forum featuring service providers, and opportunities to learn about local resources. Professionals with the following credentials can earn 1.5 CEUs: CDVP and CPAIP, LPC/LCPC, and LSW/LCSW. The panelists will include Dr. Deborah Baness King – Vice President of Student & Enrollment Services at SSC; Ruben Lopez – Advocate at YWCA Metropolitan Chicago; Celeste Angulo – Bilingual Community Educator at Anew: Building Beyond Violence & Abuse; and Sara Block- Director of Advocacy at Ascend Justice. To learn more information or to register for this event, please visit https://SSCDVResourceexpo.eventbrite.com

South Suburban College is committed to ensuring the campus is safe for all, sharing up-to-date information on the recent trends in domestic violence, and connecting students with needed resources. If you or someone you care about is in an abusive relationship, we can help you. For more information, contact Alexandra Glumac, OVW Grant Project Director, via email at aglumac@ssc.edu or 708-596-200 ext. 2393

Free Learning Opportunities Available and Volunteers Needed for the South Suburban College Literacy Tutoring Program

SOUTH HOLLAND, IL – South Suburban College (SSC) is seeking participants for the Adult Volunteer Literacy Tutoring Program. The program is structured to train volunteers to become one-on-one tutors for adults in need of basic literacy skills. Instruction in basic literacy includes the development of phonetic reading skills, whole language experience, combined with effective communication skills. Residents are welcome to volunteer as tutors and encourage others to take advantage of this free professional development opportunity.

Once certified, SSC’s volunteer literacy tutors visit adult learners at locations in or near their neighborhoods. Tutoring is flexibly scheduled based on the availability of tutors, learners, and tutoring sites. The following locations have been established as tutoring sites: Acorn Public Library, Oak Forest; Glenwood-Lynwood Library; Harvey Public Library; Phoenix Public Library; Calumet City Public Library; Grande Prairie Library, Hazel Crest; Homewood Public Library; South Holland Public Library; South Suburban College Library, Main Campus; South Suburban College Oak Forest Center Library, Oak Forest; Lansing Public Library; Dolton Public Library; Riverdale Public Library; Blue Island Public Library; Dixmoor Public Library; Tinley Park Public Library; Markham Public Library and Midlothian Public Library.

Illiteracy can be debilitating in many ways for adults who never received the proper instruction. Adults who are unable to read experience difficulty completing many daily activities that others may take for granted, along with a disadvantage in today’s competitive job market.

SSC’s Office of Adult Education administers the Adult Volunteer Literacy (AVL) Tutoring Program in addition to High School Equivalency (HSE), English as a Second Language (ESL), and Adult Basic Education (ABE). These opportunities are made possible by a grant awarded by the Illinois State Library (ISL), a division of the Office of the Secretary of State, using state funds designated for literacy.

Tutor training will take place at the South Suburban College Main Campus, located at 15800 South State Street, South Holland, Illinois on Tuesdays and Thursdays from October 4 through October 20, 2022 from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. Training will also take place at the South Suburban College Oak Forest Center, located at 16333 South Kilbourn Avenue, Oak Forest, Illinois on Tuesdays and Thursdays from November 1 through November 17, 2022 from 3 p.m. to 5 p.m. This 12-hour program culminates with literacy training certification. Tutors will continue to receive free professional development services throughout this program. Successful tutors are also eligible for letters of support or recommendation for jobs, scholarships, educational opportunities, and more. For additional information, or to register, please contact David Stephens, Adult Literacy Grants Manager, at (708) 596-2000, ext. 2558, or email DStephens@ssc.edu.

Graduates of the South Suburban College Highway Construction Careers Training Program Attended the Groundbreaking for the $94 Million Wood Street and Ashland Avenue Modernization Project

OAK FOREST, IL–On September 8, 2022, Governor JB Pritzker, the Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT), local officials, and the community announced the reconstruction of Wood Street and Ashland Avenue, which runs through Harvey, Dixmoor, and Riverdale. This 94-million-dollar reconstruction project, set to begin in the spring of 2023, will modernize the 90-year-old infrastructure. Graduates of the South Suburban College (SSC) Highway Construction Careers Training Program (HCCTP), an IDOT initiative, will have the opportunity to be recruited for the project to fulfill the workforce goals of the project.
 
“The twelve-week Highway Construction Careers Training Program was launched in 2008. The program provides opportunities for minorities, women, and disadvantaged individuals by helping them gain skills that can lead to employment in the trades with high-income potential,” said SSC President Dr. Lynette D Stokes. “Our graduates can start careers as iron workers, electricians, pipefitters, carpenters, laborers, equipment operators, and so much more. The recent corridor project, announced by Governor JB Pritzker, highlights the many opportunities this program can provide students.”
 
SSC’s pre-apprenticeship program, fully funded through a partnership with IDOT, runs Monday through Friday. Students are paid a stipend for each completed hour of training. “The HCCTP at South Suburban College is now in its twenty-seventh cohort since entering the partnership. The last cohort, who graduated in May 2022, had 100% placement into union apprenticeship programs – that’s something to be proud of! It shows the dedication of our students, South Suburban College, and the many contractors and apprenticeship programs striving to meet the workforce demand to fulfill the goals of Rebuild Illinois, Governor Pritzker’s infrastructure plan,” said HCCTP Coordinator Rebecca Garcia.
 
The project will revitalize a three-mile stretch between 161st and 138th streets to rebuild the four-lane road, including new gutters, lighting, and curbs. The project will also include the bridge over the Little Calumet River, bike and pedestrian accommodations, a new storm sewer system, and the replacement of municipal water mains. In a previous press release, Gov. Pritzker stated, “This project in the South Suburbs gets right at the heart of a major throughway for the community: Wood Street and Ashland Avenue.”
 
For information about the program, please visit www.ssc.edu/hcctp or reach the HCCTP Coordinator Rebecca Garcia at (708)225-6004 or via email at RGarcia@ssc.edu. The program is held at SSC’s Oak Forest Center, 16333 South Kilbourn Avenue, Oak Forest, Illinois. For details about SSC’s programs, admissions and registration, please visit ssc.edu or call the Admissions Office at (708) 210-5718, or email AdmissionsQuestions@ssc.edu. Para Información En Español Llame: (708) 210-5740. 
 

Governor JB Pritzker with future apprentices and current students in the South Suburban College (SSC) Highway Construction Careers Training Program.
PICTURED: Governor JB Pritzker with future apprentices and current students in the South Suburban College (SSC) Highway Construction Careers Training Program (HCCTP).

PAC Rats Theatre Company of South Suburban College Presents Performances of Bleacher Bums

SOUTH HOLLAND, IL – It’s game day and die-hard baseball fans are suiting up for Bleacher Bums, a play to be performed in the South Suburban College (SSC) Kindig Performing Arts Center. Performances will take place on September 16, 17 and 23, 2022 at 7:30 p.m. and September 24 and 25, 2022 at 2 p.m.

Bleacher Bums is a play collaboratively written in 1977 by members of Chicago’s Organic Theater Company from an idea by actor Joe Mantegna. A performance of the play was recorded for PBS television, and in 2002 a made-for-TV movie adaptation was produced. Win or lose, the cast of characters remain undaunted and will root for their team no matter what.

The nine-inning comedy focuses on an eclectic group in the bleachers at Chicago’s Wrigley Field. The cast includes Jennifer Balbuena of Gary, IN as Melody, an avid sunbather; Jim Andricopulos of Mokena as Zig, a loudmouthed middle-aged man; Carol Melendez of Glenwood as Zig’s wife Rose; Brandon Alexander of Glenwood as Decker, a businessman with a thirst for success; Jon Becker of Oak Forest, as Marvin, an inveterate gambler; Ashley Orendorff of Thornton, a young cheerleader of fanatic proportions; Kevin Hathaway of Park Forest as Richie; Charlie Furtek of Lansing as Greg, a gentle soul and serious fan; Veronica Stewart of Hazel Crest as the Wrigley Field guard trying to keep the group in line, and Pat Nevins of Homewood as the off stage announcer.

Adding talent to the production are director Paul Braun of Munster, IN, stage manager, sound designer and set designer Sandra Wagner of Lansing, scenic artist and prop designer Heather Young of Chicago and set designer Pat Nevins of Homewood.

Tickets are only $8 for adults, $6 for seniors (55+), and $6 for students. SSC students and staff can enjoy a buy one, get one free offer with an I.D. Tickets may be reserved via the 24/7 box office voicemail at (708) 210-5741 or via email at boxoffice@ssc.edu. Group rates are available.

The Kindig Performing Arts Center on SSC’s Main Campus is located at 15800 S. State Street in South Holland, Illinois, between Sibley Boulevard and 159th Street. The campus is convenient to Routes 94, 80, 57, and 294. Free, ample, well-lit parking is available.
 

A photo of the cast and crew of "Bleacher Bums"
PICTURED: The cast and crew of Bleacher Bums. Front row, left to right: Veronica Stewart (Hazel Crest), Jennifer Balbuena (Gary, IN), Kevin Hathaway (Park Forest), Jim Andricopulos (Mokena), Carol Melendez (Glenwood) and Sandra Wagner (Lansing). Back row, left to right: Charlie Furtek (Lansing), Brandon Alexander (Glenwood), Pat Nevins (Homewood), Jon Becker (Oak Forest) and Paul Braun (Munster, IN). Not pictured: Ashley Orendorff (Thornton).

Exhibition of Photographs by Jamilah Adebesin Mason on Display at South Suburban College

SOUTH HOLLAND, IL–The Art & Design Department of South Suburban College (SSC) is pleased to announce a guest artist exhibition entitled “Sink or Swim: Navigating My Mental Health” by Jamilah Adebesin Mason. The series of photographs is on display at South Suburban College in the Photo Four Gallery on the fourth floor of the Main Campus from Monday, September 12 through Thursday, October 13, 2022. A special artist talk will be held in the Photo Four Gallery on Wednesday, September 14, 2022 from 3:00 to 4:00 p.m.

Adebesin Mason graduated in 2009 from the University of Illinois at Chicago with a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Secondary Art Education. She then returned to her alma mater, Hillcrest High School, as the fine arts teacher, and went on to pursue a Master of Fine Arts in Digital Imaging and Independent Film at Governors State University. Much of her time is spent encouraging teenagers and creating a safe place for artistry to blossom.

Adebesin Mason’s current body of work is based on the need to move past mental barriers and facilitate psychological awareness rather than merely existing. Each piece is related to a specific emotion and depicts emotional trauma or a mental breakthrough. 

“Photographs of me are incorporated into mixed media abstract environments, comprised of found and handmade objects incased in resin,” Adebesin Mason remarked. “This work serves as a passage to exploring my mental health and becoming more present in the healing process.” 

The SSC Photo Four Gallery is open Monday through Thursday from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. All SSC galleries are closed on weekends and holidays. The public is welcome to visit art exhibitions at no charge. For more information, please call Pamela Planera (708) 596-2000, ext. 2211 or email at pplanera@ssc.edu. SSC is located at 15800 South State Street, South Holland, Illinois. 
 
"Dread"

John Gutierrez’ “A Borrowed Distant View” Art Exhibit Now Open at South Suburban College

SOUTH HOLLAND, IL–The Art & Design Department of South Suburban College (SSC) is pleased to present an exhibition entitled “A Borrowed Distant View” by artist John Gutierrez on display in the Dorothea Thiel Gallery from September 1-30, 2022, with an artist reception on Wednesday, September 28, 2022 at 1:00 p.m.

Gutierrez believes an intimate and accurate interpretation of a subject can only be rendered after it has been filtered through the mind and soul of the artist. These feelings and energy then flow from the mind through the hand of the artist in order to create the sculpture or painting. The result is a reflected impression to the viewer who embraces the feelings and emotions dictated by the artist through his work.

The Dorothea Thiel Gallery is located on the fourth floor of the South Suburban College Main Campus. It is open Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. – 4 p.m. All SSC galleries are closed on weekends and holidays. The galleries are supported in part by the SSC Foundation. SSC is located at 15800 South State Street, South Holland, Illinois. For more information, please email etucker@ssc.edu or call (708) 596-2000, ext. 2300.
 

It’s Not Too Late to Register for Fall 12-Week Classes Coming to South Suburban College September 19 and Later

SOUTH HOLLAND, IL–Registration for the Fall Semester at South Suburban College (SSC) is still in progress for a wide range of “Late Start” classes. Current and prospective students are encouraged to register soon for these 12-week courses, set to begin the week of September 19th and later. SSC provides flexibility to college degree seekers with flexible class delivery options through the in-person, virtual, online, simulcast, and blended delivery styles. The class schedules, registration services, and a new “live chat” with staff are available online from ssc.edu
 
The Late Start classes are offered in a variety of subject areas, including Accounting, Art, Basic Nurse Assistant Training, Biology, Business, Community Health Worker, Computer Information Sciences, Court Reporting, Drama, Emergency Medical Services, English, First Aid, Health Information Technology, Management Information Systems, Mathematics, Music, Office Administration Technology, Overview of College Success, Pharmacy Technician, Physical Education, Psychology, Reading, Sociology, Spanish, Speech, Speech-Language Pathology, Welding and more.  
 
SSC continues its free laptop application process to assist students with the virtual learning environment from https://ssc2.evo-clients.com/technology-relief-fund/
 
Students are encouraged to register soon – space is limited, and classes may be subject to change. For more information about SSC’s programs, admissions and registration, please visit ssc.edu or contact the Admissions Office at (708) 210-5718 or AdmissionsQuestions@ssc.edu. Para Información En Español Llame: (708) 210-5740. SSC is located at 15800 South State Street, South Holland, Illinois. The college’s extension site, the Oak Forest Center, is located at 16333 S. Kilbourn, Oak Forest, Illinois.

Registration Open for Non-Credit Classes at South Suburban College

SOUTH HOLLAND, IL–Registration is open at South Suburban College (SSC) for non-credit classes offered through the Department of Continuing, Corporate, and Community (C3) Education. A variety of non-credit course offerings are available throughout the Fall 2022 Semester, with registration open right up to the start of classes.

“Non-credit classes at South Suburban College help the community achieve success by motivating both the mind and body to learn something new,” said Gervaise Edwards, Manager of C3 at SSC.

With a wide assortment of online and in-person class times, course lengths and subject matter, students have the flexibility to incorporate classes into their busy schedules. Some of the upcoming courses available include, but are not limited to:

  • Art (such as Paint Thursday Fun Night)
  • Dancing (such as Stepping)
  • How to Host a Successful Podcast
  • Real Estate Principles
  • IL CCL Training Firearms
  • Computers for Late Bloomers
  • Cyber Safety and Understanding
  • Balloon for Profit
  • Food Service Certification
  • Spanish I – Conversational
  • Beginner’s Guide to Getting Published

Non-credit classes begin all semester long, with a majority of the aforementioned courses starting in September. For more information, or to register for non-credit classes at SSC, please contact the C3 Department at (708) 596-2000, ext. 2231, or visit www.ssc.edu. The South Suburban College Main Campus is located at 15800 South State Street, South Holland, Illinois.

Fall Registration Open for Free High School Equivalency and English as a Second Language Courses at South Suburban College

SOUTH HOLLAND, IL–The South Suburban College (SSC) Adult Education Department has opened registration for its free High School Equivalency (HSE/GED) and English as a Second Language (ESL) programs. Both programs will run from September 12 through December 8 during the Fall 2022 Semester. Most of the Adult Education programs are offered both full and part-time at the Main Campus in South Holland or the Oak Forest Center. Daytime, nighttime and online course options are available.

Many adults choose to further their skills and pursue high school education through the High School Equivalency (HSE/GED) program. The HSE program will develop the skills required to pass the High School Equivalency exams. HSE for ESL is also available for intermediate and advanced level ESL students who plan to take the HSE/GED exam in English. English as a Second Language (ESL) allows non-native students to improve their English skills from beginning to advanced levels.

HSE registration is made by appointment only at (708) 596-2000, ext. 2475 or 2411, or online at https://forms.gle/nBaUMMKjnMiz8RMU6 as follows:

  • September 6, 7 and 8 at 10 a.m. and 5 p.m. at the Main Campus, Room L233.

ESL registration is made by appointment only at (708) 596-2000, ext. 2475 or 2411, or online at https://forms.gle/CtBYZBkaCWNSyaDC7 as follows:

  • September 6, 7 and 8 at 10 a.m. and 6 p.m. at the Main Campus, Room 1243.

All HSE and ESL incoming students will take a placement test at the time of registration and should expect to stay at least three hours. No children are allowed at registration. Incoming students of both the HSE and ESL programs are expected to arrive on time.

The following items are required at registration:

  • Current Illinois-Issued Photo ID
  • High School Withdrawal Letter (for students under 18)
  • Medical Card (if applicable)

All courses are offered free of charge. For the purpose of compliance with Section 511 of Public Law 101-166 (the Stevens Amendment) Federal funds of $447,185 provides approximately 45% of the support of these programs. Indiana residents are not eligible to participate in the Adult Education programs.

Free Learning Opportunities Available and Volunteers Needed for the South Suburban College Literacy Tutoring Program

SOUTH HOLLAND, IL – South Suburban College (SSC) is seeking participants for the Adult Volunteer Literacy Tutoring Program. The program is structured to train volunteers to become one-on-one tutors for adults in need of basic literacy skills. Instruction in basic literacy includes the development of phonetic reading skills combined with communication skills. Residents are welcome to volunteer as tutors and encourage others to take advantage of this free opportunity.

Once certified, SSC’s volunteer literacy tutors visit adult learners at locations in or near their neighborhoods. Tutoring is flexibly scheduled based on the availability of tutors, learners, and tutoring sites. The following locations have been established as tutoring sites: Acorn Public Library, Oak Forest; Glenwood-Lynwood Library; Harvey Public Library; Phoenix Public Library; Calumet City Public Library; Grande Prairie Library, Hazel Crest; Homewood Public Library; South Holland Public Library; South Suburban College Library, Main Campus; South Suburban College Oak Forest Center Library, Oak Forest; Lansing Public Library; Dolton Public Library; Riverdale Public Library; Blue Island Public Library; Dixmoor Public Library; Tinley Park Public Library; Markham Public Library and Midlothian Public Library.

Illiteracy can be debilitating in many ways for adults who never received the proper instruction. Adults who are unable to read experience difficulty completing many daily activities that others may take for granted, along with a disadvantage in today’s competitive job market.

SSC’s Office of Adult Education administers the Adult Volunteer Literacy Tutoring Program in addition to High School Equivalency (HSE), English as a Second Language (ESL), and Adult Basic Education (ABE). These opportunities are made possible by a grant awarded by the Illinois State Library (ISL), a division of the Office of the Secretary of State, using state funds designated for literacy.

Tutor training will take place at the South Suburban College South Holland Campus, located at 15800 South State Street, South Holland, Illinois on Tuesdays and Thursdays from September 6 through September 22, 2022 from 3 p.m. to 5 p.m., and October 4 through October 20, 2022 from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. This 12-hour program culminates with literacy training certification. Tutors will continue to receive free professional development services throughout this program. Successful tutors are also eligible for letters of support or recommendation for jobs, scholarships, educational opportunities, and more.

For additional information, or to register, please contact David Stephens, Adult Literacy Grants Manager, at (708) 596-2000, ext. 2558, or email DStephens@ssc.edu.

South Suburban College Partners to Offer Free Manufacturing Skills and Training Bootcamp

SOUTH HOLLAND, IL–The South Suburban College (SSC) Department of Continuing, Corporate, and Community (C3) Education and the Calumet Area Industrial Commission (CAIC) have partnered to offer a free Manufacturing Skills and Training Bootcamp. This 2-week accelerated boot camp program is especially helpful for those who have been in the workforce before, but are currently or were recently unemployed, and are looking to kickstart a career in the growing manufacturing sector.

Nancy Burrows, a CAIC program coordinator stated, “Many people who work in manufacturing are retiring. Companies are seeking people with a myriad of skills who are eager to advance. We are hopeful that this partnership between the CAIC and SSC will help address the needs of our communities.”

Students who complete the Manufacturing Skills and Training Bootcamp earn the National Safety Council forklift certification. They will also receive safety training. Participants will go on a plant tour, interview with potential employers and have the opportunity to connect with college representatives as well.

“The Chicago Southland is rich with manufacturing companies. It’s a great boost for the economy of the area to have people who can live and work in the same vicinity,” Burrows remarked.

The Manufacturing Skills and Training Bootcamp begins on Monday, September 12, 2022 and ends on Friday, September 23, 2022. It runs weekdays from 8:00 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. The program will take place at the South Suburban College Oak Forest Center, located at 16333 South Kilbourn Avenue, Oak Forest, Illinois 60452. Seating is limited and registration is required.

More information is available at: calumetareaindustrial.com/bridge-program. Contact Nancy Burrows at (773) 517-3708 or email nancy@calumetareaindustrial.com for additional details or to register. Gervaise Edwards, Manager of C3 at SSC, can also be reached at (708) 210-5723 or via email at gedwards@ssc.edu.

Funding for the Manufacturing Skills and Training Bootcamp is provided by an H-1B US Department of Labor One Workforce Grant and the Chicago-Cook Workforce Partnership.

A photo of former South Suburban College students adjust an AC/DC electrical system.
PICTURED: Former South Suburban College students adjust an AC/DC electrical system.

South Suburban College Earns Recognition from The Conservation Foundation

SOUTH HOLLAND, IL– South Suburban College (SSC) was recently recognized by The Conservation Foundation, one of the region’s oldest and largest not-for-profit land and watershed conservation organizations dedicated to preserving and restoring open space, protecting rivers and watersheds, and promoting stewardship of the environment of northeastern Illinois.

The acknowledgement came due in part to the college’s long-standing rain garden, bird feeder, community garden, and being home to indigenous trees planted throughout campus for the last 30 years. These plantings are already part of an annual gathering which serves to additionally maintain certification with the National Arbor Day Foundation.

“Students have helped a lot with planting of trees, campus cleanup, and trying to attract wildlife,” said Environmental Science and Biology Instructor, Eric Myers, Ph.D., who applied for the recognition earlier in the year as head of the SSC Sustainability Committee. After the application was submitted, representatives from The Conservation Foundation evaluated the campus grounds on two separate occasions before the distinction was made official. “I wanted the organization to be aware of our campus initiatives so we can get some recognition for the sustainable work that’s been going on here long before I arrived,” stated Myers.

Official recognition signage can be found at the college’s rain garden, which is often inhabited by butterflies, dragonflies and bees flying throughout the area. “A lot of insects and birds in North America are in decline,” Myers added, “and that’s mostly because of a lack of habitat.” Due to the team effort of the SSC community, the college is now home to many sand pipers, blue wing teals, American toads and green frogs. Myers concluded, “I hope that local residents will follow in SSC’s footsteps, taking the opportunity to grow native plants, using a minimal amount of chemicals, and reusing rain water on their home properties when possible.”

Details about SSC’s recognition by The Conservation Foundation and the Sustainability Committee can be directed to Eric Myers, Ph.D. at (708) 596-2000, ext. 2318 or via email at emyers@ssc.edu. The community at large is welcome to visit the SSC rain garden, located on the southern side of the Physical Fitness and Athletic Center on the South Suburban College Main Campus, located at 15800 S. State St. South Holland, IL.

Recognition signage from The Conservation Foundation
PICTURED: Recognition signage from The Conservation Foundation at the rain garden on the South Suburban College Main Campus.

South Suburban College to Host Forklift Operator Training Classes at Oak Forest Center

SOUTH HOLLAND, IL–Forklift Operator Training will be offered in August and September at the South Suburban College (SSC) Oak Forest Center. This 8-hour certification course covers the basic forklift driving skills needed to obtain a Forklift Operator Certification.

The cost for each Forklift Operator Training course is $179.00 per person. Sessions will be held as follows:

  • Saturday, August 6, 8:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.
  • Saturday, August 20, 8:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.
  • Thursday, August 25 & Friday, August 26, 5:30 p.m. – 9:30 p.m.
  • Saturday, September 3, 8:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.
  • Saturday, September 17, 8:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.
  • Thursday, September 22 & Friday, September 23, 5:30 p.m. – 9:30 p.m.

The Forklift Operator Certification from the National Safety Council is available through these sessions at SSC for individuals who are looking for new career skills or for employers who are ensuring a safe and compliant workplace. Illinois requires all forklift operators to obtain a license to avoid OSHA sanctions and possible penalties. Forklift driving is no simple matter; it causes more than 100 deaths each year. A Certification Card from the National Safety Council will be issued to each student upon successful completion of the program.

WEI Sponsored Program: The Workforce Equity Initiative (WEI) project is funded through the Illinois Community College Board (ICCB) to support qualified participants through the completion of short-term educational opportunities leading to employment. Benefits of the grant include financial and technology assistance, tutoring, academic and employment advising, and more. Email workforceequity@ssc.edu, call (708) 596-2000 ext. 2413 or visit ssc.edu/wei to inquire about the qualifications to attend Forklift Operator Training at no cost.

For additional details about Forklift Operator Training, contact Gervaise Edwards at (708) 596-2000, ext. 5723 or email gedwards@ssc.edu. SSC’s Oak Forest Center is located at 16333 S. Kilbourn, Oak Forest, Illinois, with convenient access from I-57, I-80, and I-294.

Free Learning Opportunities Available and Volunteers Needed for the South Suburban College Literacy Tutoring Program

OAK FOREST, IL–South Suburban College (SSC) is seeking participants for the Adult Volunteer Literacy Tutoring Program. The program is structured to train volunteers to become one-on-one tutors for adults in need of basic literacy skills. Instruction in basic literacy includes the development of phonetic reading skills combined with communication skills. Local residents are welcome to volunteer as tutors and encourage others to take advantage of this free opportunity.

Once certified, SSC’s volunteer literacy tutors visit adult learners at locations in or near their neighborhoods. Tutoring is flexibly scheduled based on the availability of the tutors, learners and tutoring sites. The following locations have been established as tutoring sites: Acorn Public Library, Oak Forest; Glenwood-Lynwood Library; Harvey Public Library; Phoenix Public Library; Calumet City Public Library; Grande Prairie Library, Hazel Crest; Homewood Public Library; South Holland Public Library; South Suburban College Library, Main Campus; South Suburban College Oak Forest Center Library, Oak Forest; Lansing Public Library; Dolton Public Library; Riverdale Public Library; Blue Island Public Library; Dixmoor Public Library; Tinley Park Public Library; Markham Public Library and Midlothian Public Library.

Illiteracy can be debilitating in many ways for adults who never received the proper instruction. Adults who are unable to read experience difficulty completing many daily activities that others may take for granted, along with a disadvantage in today’s competitive job market. SSC’s Office of Adult Education administers the Adult Volunteer Literacy Tutoring Program in addition to High School Equivalency (HSE), English as a Second Language (ESL), and Adult Basic Education (ABE). These opportunities are made possible by a grant awarded by the Illinois State Library (ISL), a division of the Office of Secretary of State, using state funds designated for literacy.

Tutor training will take place at the South Suburban College Oak Forest Campus, located at 16333 South Kilbourn Avenue Oak Forest, Illinois on Tuesdays and Thursdays from August 9 through August 25 from 4–6 p.m. Online training is also available. This 12-hour program culminates with literacy training certification. Tutors will continue to receive free professional development services throughout this program. Successful tutors are also eligible for letters of support or recommendation for jobs, scholarships, educational opportunities and more. For additional information, or to register, please contact David Stephens, Adult Literacy Grants Manager, at (708) 596-2000, ext. 2558, or email DStephens@ssc.edu.

A student and tutor work on a reading activity.
PICTURED: A former student and tutor in the SSC Adult Volunteer Literacy Tutoring Program work on a reading activity.

South Suburban College Awarded Grant to Support Early Childhood Education

SOUTH HOLLAND, IL– South Suburban College (SSC) was awarded a $847,867.68 grant by the Illinois Community College Board (ICCB). SSC is working with colleges across the State of Illinois under the Early Childhood Access Consortium for Equity Act to provide support for new students in the field of early childhood education while assisting incumbent workers to enroll in and complete degree or certificate programs.

SSC offers an Associate of Applied Science (AAS) degree in Early Childhood Education in addition to Level II and Level III certificate options. The program is geared toward those interested in a career working with children from birth to 8 years old. “We are very excited to receive this grant at SSC,” said Anna Helwig, Ph.D., Dean of Liberal Arts and Sciences. “We have hired an early childhood education coach who will be the conduit between the institution and navigators who work directly with regional early childhood centers.” This coach will begin employment at South Suburban College on August 1, 2022.

In addition to hiring support staff, the grant will also be utilized to update classroom technology and provide students studying early childhood education with laptops to borrow to enhance their learning experience. These SSC students will also have access to apply for special emergency funds, a debt relief program and stipend to be administered once they achieve their academic goal of attaining a degree or certificate with a concentration in early childhood education.

A key goal of the 3-year grant will be to streamline, coordinate, and improve the accessibility of degree completion pathways to benefit those working in and served by the industry in addition to employers of early childhood educators. A virtual open house highlighting the early childhood education concentration at SSC will take place on Wednesday, July 20, 2022 from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. Details about program requirements, pathway agreements with four-year institutions, scholarship information and more will be addressed. Those looking to begin a career in early childhood education or advance their current profession are required to register for the open house at: https://bit.ly/3OmJYwx.

For additional information about the grant, please contact Anna Helwig, Ph.D., at (708) 596-2000, ext. 5706, or email ahelwig@ssc.edu. The South Suburban College Main Campus is located at 15800 South State Street South Holland, Illinois. Our mission is to Serve our Students and the Community through lifelong learning.

South Suburban College Student-Athletes Earn All-Academic Achievement by the National Junior College Athletic Association

SOUTH HOLLAND, IL–The South Suburban College (SSC) Athletics Department is proud to announce student-athletes awarded for their dedication in the classroom during the 2021-22 school year. The National Junior College Athletic Association (NJCAA) has named ten All-Academic Team recipients from SSC.

“This has been a successful year for Bulldogs Athletics,” stated Steve Ruzich, SSC Athletic Director. “The scholastic accomplishments of our student-athletes who display dedication to their sports and their studies are to be commended. I’m proud to be associated with a program of students who exemplify excellence both in the classroom and on the playing field.”

There are three categories in the NJCAA All-Academic divisions. First Team awardees earn a GPA of 4.00. Second Team awardees achieve between a 3.99 and 3.80 GPA. Third Team awardees attain between a 3.79 and 3.60 GPA. SSC recipients include:

  • FIRST TEAM: Taylor Vandommelen – Volleyball
  • SECOND TEAM: James Burke – Baseball
  • SECOND TEAM: Harrison Dubois – Baseball
  • SECOND TEAM: Amaris Gonzalez – Women’s Soccer
  • SECOND TEAM: Michael Pawyza – Baseball
  • SECOND TEAM: Seungjun Song – Baseball
  • THIRD TEAM: Osiris Atisso ¬– Men’s Basketball
  • THIRD TEAM: Cameron Bartmann – Men’s Basketball
  • THIRD TEAM: Samya Gardner – Women’s Basketball
  • THIRD TEAM: Jacob Mucha – Baseball

Taylor Vandommelen of Highland, IN recently completed her sophomore year at SSC. She enjoyed both playing volleyball and interacting with her instructors in the classroom. Vandommelen said, “I really enjoyed the teachers, especially Becky Walters, the Paralegal Studies and Criminal Justice Program Coordinator. She really makes sure that students understand the course material.”

Vandommelen will continue her studies in the field of criminal justice at Indiana University Northwest, while extending her student-athlete status as a Redhawk volleyball player.

For information about Bulldogs Athletics, contact Steve Ruzich at (708) 596-2000, ext. 5843 or email SRuzich@ssc.edu. SSC is located at 15800 South State Street, South Holland, Illinois. Our mission is to Serve our Students and the Community through lifelong learning.
 

Taylor Vandommelen, a student-athlete at South Suburban College, was named to the NJCAA All-Academic First Team
PICTURED: Taylor Vandommelen, a student-athlete at South Suburban College, was named to the NJCAA All-Academic First Team.

South Suburban College Selected by Amazon as an Education Partner for Career Choice Program

SOUTH HOLLAND, IL–South Suburban College (SSC) has been selected as an education partner for Amazon’s Career Choice program, providing Amazon’s hourly employees access to various educational opportunities on the Main Campus in South Holland, at the Oak Forest Center and via a virtual learning environment.

SSC plays a pivotal role in transforming the lives of its diverse student population. Knowledgeable faculty and service-focused staff guide students on their path to success – to start and/or keep careers moving forward with various degree and certificate options. High quality education, training and services are provided in modern facilities on both campuses. Updated technology is used as students engage in class, whether in-person or online.

Amazon’s Career Choice program is an education benefit that empowers employees to learn new skills for career success at Amazon or elsewhere. The program meets individual learners where they are on their education journey through a variety of education and upskilling opportunities including full college tuition, industry certifications designed to lead to in-demand jobs, and foundational skills such as English language proficiency, high school diplomas, and GEDs. In the U.S., the company is investing $1.2 billion to upskill more than 300,000 employees by 2025 to help move them into higher-paying, in-demand jobs.

Amazon’s Career Choice program has a rigorous selection process for third-party partner educators, choosing partners that are focused on helping employees through their education programs, assisting them with job placements, and overall offering education that leads to career success.

“We’re looking forward to South Suburban College coming on board as an education partner for Career Choice, adding to the hundreds of best-in-class offerings available to our employees,” said Tammy Thieman, Global Program Lead of Amazon’s Career Choice program. “We’re committed to empowering our employees by providing them access to the education and training they need to grow their careers, whether that’s with us or elsewhere. We have intentionally cultivated a partner network of third-party educators and employers committed to providing excellent education, job placement resources, and continuous improvements to the experience. Today, over 50,000 Amazon employees around the world have already participated in Career Choice and we’ve seen first-hand how it can transform their lives.”

For more information on Amazon’s Career Choice, visit: https://www.aboutamazon.com/news/workplace/career-choice. For details about SSC’s partnership with Amazon’s Career Choice, visit: https://ssc2.evo-clients.com/amazon-career-choice-at-ssc/.

The mission of South Suburban College is to Serve our Students and the Community through lifelong learning.
 

A photo of the student entrance at the Main Campus.
PICTURED: The South Suburban College Main Campus Student Entrance.

South Suburban College Adult Volunteer Literacy Tutoring Program Seeks Tutors and Learners

SOUTH HOLLAND, IL–South Suburban College (SSC) is seeking tutors and learners to participate in the Adult Volunteer Literacy Tutoring Program. The program is structured to train volunteers to become one-on-one tutors for adults in need of basic literacy skills. Instruction in basic literacy includes the development of phonetic reading and communication skills. Community residents are welcome to volunteer as tutors or encourage others to take advantage of this free program.

Illiteracy is debilitating in many ways for adults who never received proper instruction. Adults unable to read experience difficulty completing daily tasks often. They are also at a disadvantage while competing in the job market.

New tutor training sessions will take place at the Main Campus in South Holland on Tuesdays and Thursdays from July 12 through July 28 from 3–5 p.m. Tutor training is a 12-hour program that culminates with literacy training certification. Training is also available in an online format. Once certified, tutors will continue to receive free professional development services through this program. Successful tutors are also eligible for letters of support or recommendation for employment, scholarships, educational opportunities and more.

Once certified, SSC’s volunteer literacy tutors visit adult learners at locations within or near their neighborhoods. Tutoring is flexibly scheduled based on the availability of tutors, learners and tutoring sites. Tutoring sites have been established at the following locations: Acorn Public Library, Oak Forest; Glenwood-Lynwood Library; Harvey Public Library; Phoenix Public Library; Calumet City Public Library; Grande Prairie Library, Hazel Crest; Homewood Public Library; South Holland Public Library; South Suburban College Library, Main Campus; Oak Forest Center Library, Oak Forest; Lansing Public Library; Dolton Public Library; Riverdale Public Library; Blue Island Public Library; Dixmoor Public Library; Tinley Park Public Library; Markham Public Library and Midlothian Public Library.

The SSC Office of Adult Education administers the Adult Volunteer Literacy Tutoring Program in addition to High School Equivalency (HSE), English as a Second Language (ESL), and Adult Basic Education (ABE). These opportunities are made possible by a grant awarded by the Illinois State Library (ISL), a division of the Office of Secretary of State, using state funds designated for literacy.

For more information or to register, please contact David Stephens, Adult Literacy Grants Manager, at (708) 596-2000, ext. 2558, or email DStephens@ssc.edu. The South Suburban College Main Campus is located at 15800 South State Street South Holland, Illinois. Our mission is to Serve our Students and the Community through lifelong learning.
 

A photo of A former student and tutor in the SSC Adult Volunteer Literacy Tutoring Program read together.
PICTURED: A former student and tutor in the SSC Adult Volunteer Literacy Tutoring Program read together.

Theatre Company at South Suburban College to Hold Open Auditions for Baseball Comedy

SOUTH HOLLAND, IL–The PAC Rats Theatre Company of South Suburban College (SSC) will hold open auditions for the baseball comedy Bleacher Bums. Auditions will take place Wednesday, July 13 and Thursday, July 14, 2022, beginning at 7 p.m. Readings will be held in the Kindig Performing Arts Center.

In the bleachers at Chicago’s Wrigley Field, die-hard Cubs fans root for their team. Members of the group include a sun-worshipper, a blind man who follows the game by transistor radio, a professional gambler, a husband and wife, and a nerd. There are also two voice over roles available.

Director Paul Braun of Highland, IN, will cast 7 men and 2 women, of all races and ethnicities, ranging in age from 16 to 70 plus. Braun is planning evening rehearsals. The show, collaboratively written by members of Chicago’s Organic Theater Company from an idea by actor Joe Mantegna, is set to perform during the last two weekends in September.

All community members and SSC students are encouraged to audition. Appointments and prepared audition materials are not necessary. Auditioners will read from scenes, which will be available at the time of auditions. Those who audition should be prepared to list all conflicts with the rehearsal schedule.

“We’re excited to be back in the swing of things,” said Ellie Shunko, manager of the Kindig Performing Arts Center. “COVID has kept our theatre dark for too long and we’re itching to flip those stage lights on and welcome the community back to our stage.”

In addition to acting talent, the PAC Rats are also seeking volunteers interested in working backstage. “Putting on a play takes a lot of hands,” said Shunko. “We hope that those who aren’t ready to step on stage will enjoy working backstage on lighting, sets and props.”

For character descriptions, a rehearsal schedule and more information about this production, visit the SSC Kindig Performing Arts Center Facebook page or email ssctheatre@ssc.edu. The Kindig Performing Arts Center is located on the Main Campus of South Suburban College at 15800 S. State Street in South Holland, IL.
 

A photo of the exterior of the Performing Arts Center
PICTURED: The exterior of the Performing Arts Center on the Main Campus of South Suburban College.

Highway Construction Careers Training Program Offered Soon at South Suburban College

OAK FOREST, IL–The Highway Construction Careers Training Program (HCCTP) at South Suburban College (SSC) is gearing up for their next short-term program. Registration for this program is currently open for the Summer and Fall Semesters.

The HCCTP has been offered at SSC since 2014. Completers of the 12-week program are equipped with various skills that can lead to employment in the trades with high income potential. Career opportunities for those who complete the program include but are not limited to: electrician, iron worker, pipefitter, carpenter, laborer and equipment operator.

The application process begins at the mandatory one-hour informational orientation followed directly by assessment testing. Orientation and assessment testing will take place between June 21 and June 23, 2022 for the summer session beginning on Monday, July 18, 2022. Orientation and assessment testing for the fall will take place between August 9 and August 11, 2022 with a start date of Tuesday, September 6, 2022.

The program will run daily, Monday through Friday, between 8:00 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. Applicants must be 18 years of age or older, have a high school diploma or GED, an interest in working in the trades, and successfully pass a drug screening (including THC). Those who apply are also required to provide a valid driver’s license.

A goal of the SSC HCCTP is to increase the number of minorities, women and veterans working in Illinois highway construction. The HCCTP is funded through a partnership with the Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT), thus allowing the tuition to be waived. While enrolled, students will be paid a stipend of $10 per hour for each full hour of training completed.

For more information, or to register, visit www.ssc.edu/hcctp or call Rebecca Garcia at (708) 225-6004. All orientation and assessment testing will be held at SSC’s Oak Forest Center, located at 16333 South Kilbourn Avenue, Oak Forest, Illinois. Para información en Español, llame (708) 210-5740.

The Illinois Department of Transportation and the participating community colleges do not guarantee employment upon trainees’ graduation from the Highway Construction Careers Training Program.
 

A photo of an instructor explains safety techniques to HCCTP students
PICTURED: An instructor explains safety techniques to students in the SSC Highway Construction Careers Training Program.

South Holland Resident Fatima Serrato Sworn in as Student Trustee at South Suburban College

SOUTH HOLLAND, IL–South Suburban College (SSC) student Fatima Serrato was sworn in as Student Trustee at the college’s May meeting of the Board of Trustees. She was welcomed to her new role by Chairman Terry R. Wells.

Feeling a bit too comfortable with her life earlier in the school year, Serrato decided to run for the Student Trustee position for a change of pace. “I wanted to branch out and try something new that would be considered out of my comfort zone,” she said. “Normally I would not choose to be given the spotlight, but I’m looking forward to this role.” As a result of her victory, Serrato will vote on behalf of the student community at monthly meetings of the Board of Trustees.

Consistent communication was credited most by Serrato in her appointment as Student Trustee, noting that she was determined to obtain the 50 student signatures needed for her nomination, in spite of any obstacles created by the pandemic. “I informed students of my intentions for running for Student Trustee, how I want to be an advocate for them and implement some new ideas,” Serrato added. “My overall goal is to fulfill the needs of SSC students throughout my term.”

This South Holland resident has the desire to be an advocate for not only the student population at SSC, but also in her eventual career, working as an OBGYN in the field of obstetrics and gynecology. Serrato remarked, “I’ve always wanted to positively impact the lives of others. I’m excited to begin serving the student population, similar to how I will advocate for my patients one day.”

In addition to her new role as Student Trustee, Serrato is active in the SSC Green Club, where she serves as Vice President. She also works as a student assistant alongside Dean Devon Powell in Student Services. Serrato has additionally earned a Summer School Scholarship as well as the SSC Student Trustee Scholarship, resulting from her recent election. She concluded, “I’m looking forward to making my mark and a positive impact at SSC.”

There are plenty of opportunities to get involved as an SSC student. Registration for the Summer Semester is underway with a start date of June 6. For more information or for assistance with registration, access the live chat button online at ssc.edu or call (708) 210-5718. The mission of South Suburban College is to Serve our Students and the Community through lifelong learning.
 

A photo of Vice President of Administration Martin Lareau, Student Trustee Fatima Serrato and Chairman of the Board of Trustees, Terry R. Wells.
PICTURED: Vice President of Administration, Martin Lareau (left) shakes hand of newly elected Student Trustee, Fatima Serrato (center), alongside Chairman of the Board of Trustees, Terry R. Wells (right) at the South Suburban College May Board Meeting.

South Suburban College Celebrates First Class of Barber College Graduates

SOUTH HOLLAND, IL– South Suburban College (SSC) celebrated the first graduating class from its Barber College on Wednesday, May 18, 2022. Called, the “Final Punch Out,” the ceremony was attended by students, faculty, administrators, SSC President, Dr. Lynette D. Stokes, members of the Board of Trustees, including Chairman Terry R. Wells, as well as Illinois State Representatives Thaddeus Jones (29th District) and William “Will” Davis (30th District). Attendees observed special remarks, various student awards and each of the nine cohort completers log their last punch card, noting 1,500 hours of successful completion. It was a bittersweet moment for everyone involved in pioneering the program.

“It was both an overwhelming and terrific experience,” said Lucas Gunby, SSC Barber College Program Coordinator. Once an award-winning barber for television shows like “Empire” and “Chicago Fire,” Gunby now teaches the next generation of barbers at SSC. “One of the things that makes SSC’s program so unique is that you can earn a Barber Technician Certificate or an Associate in Applied Science in barbering degree,” he stated, noting that students may transfer in credits from traditional barbering institutions. “Not only that, but if you’ve never attended classes on a college campus, you can enter this program and get the full student experience.”

Eight students were recently awarded certificates from the SSC Barbering Program, many of which have made connections in the field that led to employment opportunities. One student, Shuntai Robinson, earned an AAS degree in barbering. Similar to Gunby, Robinson has an interest in training new students. “I’m looking to expand the knowledge I already received in order to teach others properly. I’m really eager to learn,” she stated. Robinson spoke as the SSC Barber College class valedictorian. She tipped her cap to Gunby and remarked, “He is very knowledgeable about cutting techniques. He can use a comb and clippers without guards. It takes years of experience to get to that level.”

Students complete both clinical and theoretical education in the SSC Barber College. This program is expected to grow tremendously in the near future, according to Gunby, with plans to incorporate a mobile barbering bus to serve the community at various events. He added, “In 2023, there are plans to add a cosmetology program [and] instructors’ program, so you can come to SSC and we can teach you how to teach these classes. We are doing our best to lead students and give them the key to success.”

For more information about the SSC Barber College, please call (708) 596-2000, ext. 2266. South Suburban College is located at 15800 S. State St. South Holland, IL 60473. Our mission is to Serve our Students and the Community through life-long learning.

A photo of the nine graduates of the first SSC Barber College cohort gather to celebrate their achievement.
PICTURED: Nine graduates of the first SSC Barber College cohort gather to celebrate their achievement.

South Suburban College Baseball Wins 14th Division I Regional Championship

SOUTH HOLLAND, IL – The South Suburban College Baseball Team captured their 14th Regional Championship on Saturday, May 14th following a hard fought 12-inning victory over Region-IV Tournament host Triton College by a score of 9-8. The Bulldogs improved their season record of 41-17 – the 13th time they have reached the 40-win mark in school history.

Freshman RHP Garrett Kenyon (Coronado High School, Las Vegas, NV) was the winning pitcher and freshman RHP Dalton Alford (Calhoun High School, Port Lavaca, TX) closed it out with a scoreless 12th inning. Freshman RHP James Burke (Carl Sandburg High School, Orland Park, IL) earned Region-IV Tournament MVP after throwing 7 2/3 innings in Friday’s 7-5 win vs. Triton.

“It took 21 total innings on Saturday to get it done and I could not be any prouder of our team for finding a way to win it,” said Head Coach Steve Ruzich, who was named Region-IV Coach of the Year. “We have given ourselves an opportunity to get back to Nationals and look forward to heading to Wabash Valley this week.”

SSC will open with John Logan College at the District Tournament on Wednesday, May 18 at 12 noon at Wabash Valley College in Mt. Carmel, Illinois. Wabash Valley will take on Iowa Western at 3 p.m. The winner of the four-team tournament will advance to the National Junior College Athletic Association Division I World Series, located in Grand Junction, Colorado.

For more information, visit www.ssc.edu/athletics or contact Coach Ruzich at sruzich@ssc.edu. SSC is located at 15800 South State Street, South Holland, Illinois.
 

A photo of SSC Bulldogs baseball team with Region IV Trophy
PICTURED: The South Suburban College Bulldogs Baseball Team earned the Regional Championship after a 12-inning victory over host Triton College on Saturday, May 14.

South Suburban College to Offer College for Kids Summer Program

SOUTH HOLLAND, IL– The Office of Continuing, Corporate and Community Education (C3) at South Suburban College (SSC) will offer the College for Kids program this summer. Children in grades 1-12 are invited to participate. This program will explore reading, study skills, grammar and writing, math, Spanish, and game creation.

“Children in this program have the opportunity to learn in a variety of academic arenas. It will help keep their educational tools sharp during the summer months when school is not in session,” said Gervaise Edwards, Manager of C3. “This experience can lead participants to have better, brighter futures.”

College for Kids will begin on Tuesday, June 28, 2022 and conclude on Thursday, July 28, 2022. Classes will not be offered on Monday, July 4, 2022, as campus will be closed for the holiday.

This program will be offered on SSC’s Main Campus, located at 15800 S. State St. South Holland, IL 60473. Contact the C3 department at (708) 596-2000 ext. 2231 for more information or to enroll a child in College for Kids. Visit ssc.edu for a complete listing of non-credit classes for the youth and adults alike.
 

SSCMainCampus-north
PICTURED: The South Suburban College Main Campus in South Holland, Illinois.

South Suburban College to Host Cook County Career Connect Free Hiring & Resource Fair on May 24

SOUTH HOLLAND, IL–South Suburban College (SSC) will host the Cook County Career Connector Hiring & Resource Fair on Tuesday, May 24, 2022 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. in the Kindig Performing Arts Center. This event marks the kickoff of the Cook County Career Connector program sponsored by Cook County and The Chicago Cook Workforce Partnership (The Partnership) with support from Employment & Employer Services (E&ES) and the South Suburban American Job Center (AJC).

The Cook County Career Connector promotes a more inclusive and equitable economy as Cook County emerges from the pandemic by connecting County residents to quality jobs and connecting County employers to a skilled and diverse talent pool.

“The County is committed to utilizing American Rescue Plan Act dollars to provide opportunities to address the needs of both businesses and job seekers as we continue to recover from the upheaval caused by the Covid-19 pandemic,” said Cook County Board President Toni Preckwinkle. “Businesses today face historic challenges finding the talent they need and we also know that there are many people seeking new or better jobs. We launched the Career Connector program to make the critical connection between employer and job seeker.”

More than 20 ready-to-hire employers will be on hand in fields that include Manufacturing, Healthcare, Transportation, Distribution and Logistics (TDL) and other sectors. Employers include National Tube Supply, Symphony Care Network, Walgreens, Illinois Tollway Call Center, Amazon, PACE Suburban Bus and more who will offer competitive wages and benefits.

Job seekers should bring at least 15 copies of their resume, dress appropriately and be prepared to interview during the Career Connector Hiring & Resource Fair. Job seekers can register at ChiCookWorks.org/CCFair.

Masks and temperature checks are required for admittance on the college campus. The SSC Main Campus is located at 15800 S. State St. South Holland, IL 60473. The mission of South Suburban College is to Serve our Students and the Community though lifelong learning.

South Suburban College Partners to Offer Free Manufacturing Skills and Training Bootcamp

SOUTH HOLLAND, IL–South Suburban College (SSC) and the Calumet Area Industrial Commission (CAIC) have partnered to offer a free Manufacturing Skills and Training Bootcamp. This 80-hour, 5-week program prepares individuals for college-level manufacturing programs and rewarding careers.

Students who complete the program earn the National Safety Council forklift certification, the OSHA 10 safety standards certification and an SSC certificate of participation. They will also receive plant tours, interviews with potential employers and the opportunity to connect with college representatives. Participants may even be eligible to earn a stipend while taking part in the bootcamp.

Nancy Burrows, a CAIC program coordinator remarked, “When people think about manufacturing, they think you need to be good with your hands, but it’s more important to be good with your mind as problem-solving is one of the most vital tools for success in the field.”

Participants of the Manufacturing Skills and Training Bootcamp will gain a well-rounded understanding of the field while adding mathematical techniques to their skillset. Resume building and interviewing strategies will also be explored.

“Many people who work in manufacturing are retiring. Companies are seeking people with a myriad of skills who are eager to advance. We are hopeful that this partnership between the CAIC and SSC will help address the needs of our communities,” Burrows added. “The Chicago Southland is rich with manufacturing companies. It’s a great boost for the economy of the area to have people who can live and work in the same vicinity.”

The Manufacturing Skills and Training Bootcamp begins on Monday, June 6, 2022. Classes will take place at the Thornton Fractional High School Center for Academics and Technology at 1605 Wentworth Ave. Calumet City, IL 60409. The bootcamp is open to graduates of the Thornton Fractional Class of 2022 and all adults over the age of 18. Seating is limited and registration is required. More information is available at: calumetareaindustrial.com/bridge-program. Call Nancy Burrows at (773) 517-3708 or e-mail nancy@calumetareaindustrial.com for additional details or to register.

Funding for the Manufacturing Skills and Training Bootcamp is provided by an H-1B US Department of Labor One Workforce Grant.
 

Former student adjusts a hydraulic instrumentation module.
PICTURED: Former South Suburban College student adjusts a hydraulic instrumentation module.

South Suburban College Recognizes High School Students at Annual Video Competition

SOUTH HOLLAND, IL–South Suburban College (SSC), with the assistance of Career Development Systems (CDS), hosted the 15th annual High School Video Competition on Thursday, April 28, 2022, in the Kindig Performing Arts Center. The competition showcases talent from high schools as well as provides tours of the college’s facilities, including the television studio, audio studio and new multimedia lab, built Spring 2022.

Graphic Design & Visual Communications coordinator, professor Pamela Planera, and other SSC staff welcomed high school students and their families to the event. “This year’s competition meant the world to me as it was my first in-person event since the pandemic,” said Planera. “I really enjoyed it and received a lot of great feedback to make this event even bigger and better for the future. It was great to meet students who plan on enrolling in my graphic design and visual communication courses this Fall of ‘22. The new visual communication program goes hand-in-hand with the graphic design degrees and certificates that we offer. I hope they continue to choose SSC for their college education.”

Six high schools submitted entries into the competition: Bremen, Hillcrest, Oak Forest, Richards, Shepard and Thornton Fractional South. Students entered work in nine different categories: Commercial/Promo, Creative Mobile Project, Live Multi-Camera, News Program, News Story or Feature, Podcast, PSA, Short Subject-Comedy and Short Subject-Drama. The forty entries were judged on aesthetic quality, technical quality, program design and overall effectiveness.

In addition to the student awards, high schools competed for the Regional Award of Distinction, which is determined by the highest average score per entry. Jodi Pelini, a professor at Shepard High School, accepted this award. “The SSC awards ceremony was the highlight of the 2021-2022 school year. After two years of virtual ceremonies, it was wonderful to be back in-person with the students to honor all their achievements. The competition was unbelievably fierce this year which made it all the more meaningful to take home the Regional Award of Distinction. I couldn’t be prouder of our students for their creative talent and their endless dedication to telling memorable stories,” said Pelini.

The student awards for each category are as follows:

Commercial/Promo: First Place, “School’s Out” – Shepard; Second Place, “Cologne Commercial” – Richards; Third Place, “Gatorade Commercial” – Richards.

Creative Mobile Project: First Place, “Mi Familia” – Shepard.

News Program: First Place, “Bulldog Dispatch” – Richards; Second Place, “Bravescast” – Bremen; Third Place, “Astro TV Newscast” – Shepard.

News Story or Feature: First Place, “Richards Pre-School” – Richards; Second Place, “Richards Male Mental Wellness Club” – Richards; Third Place, “2021 Bremen Braves Soccer Mid-Season Report” – Bremen.

Podcast: First Place, “The Story of Headless Canyon” – Bremen; Second Place, “The History and Future of Gaming” – Bremen; Third Place, “Be Kind to Your Mind” – Shepard.

PSA: First Place, “Drive Safe, Not Stupid” – Shepard; Second Place, “Donate. Save a Life” – Shepard.

Short Subject – Comedy: First Place, “Kyle” – Bremen; Second Place, “A VLOG to Remember” – Shepard; Third Place, “Mask Up” – Hillcrest.

Short Subject – Drama: First Place, “The Mirror in Me” – Shepard; Second Place, “Agent 228” – Oak Forest; Third Place, “Borderline” – Shepard.

Live Multi-Camera: First Place, “March Choir Concert” – Shepard; Second Place, “Pizza Wars” – Oak Forest; Third Place, “Bake Off” – Hillcrest.

Contact Pamela Planera at pplanera@ssc.edu or (708) 596-2000 ext. 2211 for information about Graphic Design & Visual Communications at South Suburban College. SSC is located at 15800 South State Street, South Holland, Illinois.
 

Jodi Pelini, professor at Alan B. Shepard High School, accepts the Regional Award of Distinction from Pamela Planera, SSC Graphic Design & Visual Communications coordinator.
PICTURED: Jodi Pelini (left), professor at Alan B. Shepard High School, accepts the Regional Award of Distinction from Pamela Planera (right), South Suburban College Graphic Design & Visual Communications coordinator and professor, at the 15th annual SSC High School Video Competition.

South Suburban College to Host Legal Studies Open Houses in May

SOUTH HOLLAND, IL–South Suburban College (SSC) is hosting Open Houses for its Legal Studies Programs in May including Paralegal/Legal Assistant, Criminal Justice System, and Court Reporting/Verbatim Technology. All of the relevant information about SSC’s Open Houses can be found online at ssc.edu/info.

SSC’s Paralegal Program prepares students to become highly trained paralegals and legal assistants. Graduates are equipped with the knowledge, skills and credentials to work in a variety of legal environments. SSC has the only American Bar Association (ABA) approved paralegal curriculum in the Chicago Southland and Northwest Indiana region, equipping graduates with a significant advantage entering the workforce. Learn about the benefits of the college’s Associate Degree and Certificate tracks as well as its new fully online Paralegal degree option at a virtual open house on Monday, May 16 at 6:00 p.m. Register in advance and access the Zoom link from ssc.edu/info.

SSC’s Criminal Justice System (CJS) Program is hosting an in-person Open House at the SSC Fieldhouse on May 26 at 6:00 p.m. It will take place in conjunction with the Cook County Sheriff’s Department as part of their Stop the Bleed campaign. Registration is required at ssc.edu/info. CJS is designed for individuals seeking employment with, or upgrading skills for police agencies, correctional facilities, or security companies. The field of law enforcement and criminal justice is an exciting in-demand career pathway with high earning potential.

SSC’s Court Reporting Program provides students with the opportunity to learn a unique and highly valuable hands-on skill. New students can also take advantage of a free Court Reporting A-Z 6-week summer program. SSC student Caleb MacKenzie of Downers Grove, IL, initially became interested in the field of court reporting as a high school student when he job-shadowed his aunt. He stated, “Being able to have a front row seat to the legal profession as a court reporter is really interesting to me. Adding a flexible schedule and excellent income potential is definitely a bonus.” For more information about the rewarding court reporting profession and the option to take part in a free 6-week summer program at SSC, stop by an in-person open house on Thursday, May 19 at 6:00 p.m. in Room 5250 at SSC’s Oak Forest Center – 16333 S. Kilbourn Ave, Oak Forest, IL 60452.

For more information about the Paralegal and Criminal Justice Programs, please contact Becky Walters, J.D., Paralegal Studies and Criminal Justice Program Coordinator at (708) 596-2000, ext. 2579 or email bwalters@ssc.edu. For more information about the Court Reporting Program, contact LaTherese Cooke, Court Reporting Coordinator at (708) 596-2000 ext. 3217 or email LCooke@ssc.edu.

Summer classes begin Monday, June 6, 2022, and class schedules, registration services and a “live chat” with staff are all available online from ssc.edu.

South Suburban College to Host Forklift Operator Training Courses at Oak Forest Center

SOUTH HOLLAND, IL– South Suburban College’s Business & Career Institute is offering Forklift Operator Training in May at the Oak Forest Center (OFC). This certification course covers the basic forklift driving skills needed to obtain a Forklift Operator Certification. The course is FREE for qualified applicants, or the cost will be $179.00 per person.

The spring Forklift Operator Training sessions will be held at the OFC as follows:

  • May 7 from 8:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.
  • May 18 and 19 from 5:30 – 9:30 p.m.
  • May 20 from 8:30am – 4:30 p.m.
  • May 21 from 8:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.

The Forklift Operator Certification from the National Safety Council is available through these sessions at SSC for individuals who are looking for new career skills or for employers who are ensuring a safe and compliant workplace. Illinois requires all forklift operators to obtain a license to avoid OSHA sanctions and possible penalties. Forklift driving is no simple matter; it causes more than 100 deaths each year. A Certification Card from the National Safety Council will be issued to the student upon successful completion of the program. The course will enforce social distancing and use of PPEs.

For more information, please contact Gervaise Edwards at (708) 596-2000, ext. 5723 or email gedwards@ssc.edu. SSC’s Oak Forest Center is located at 16333 S. Kilbourn, Oak Forest, Illinois, with convenient access from I-57, I-80, and I-294.

WEI Sponsored Program: The Workforce Equity Initiative (WEI) project is funded through ICCB to support qualified participants through the completion of short-term educational opportunities leading to employment. Benefits of the grant include free tuition and technology assistance, tutoring, academic and employment advising, and more. Email workforceequity@ssc.edu or visit ssc.edu/wei for more information.

Join South Suburban College for Tuesday Talks – Virtual Q&As for Summer Enrollment

SOUTH HOLLAND, IL– South Suburban College (SSC) is hosting Zoom sessions throughout May called Tuesday Talks to assist prospective students with all of their questions regarding reverse transfer and enrollment for the 2022 Summer Semester. Tuesday Talks will be hosted by the SSC Enrollment Services Department every Tuesday during the month of May at 12 noon, with Zoom access available from www.ssc.edu/info. The Tuesday Talks are designed for any students who are considering attending college for the first time, reverse transferring from a four-year school, or who simply have general questions about the enrollment and registration process.

SSC continues its efforts to provide flexibility to college degree seekers interrupted by the pandemic with flexible class delivery options. Summer registration is now in progress and class schedules, registration services and a new “live chat” with staff are all available online from ssc.edu. Summer classes begin June 6, 2022.

In addition to the upcoming Tuesday Talks, prospective students may access a separate live chat function from ssc.edu, call (708) 210-5718 or email AdmissionsQuestions@ssc.edu for ongoing assistance.

SSC is a community college located in South Holland, Illinois serving 21 communities including parts of the Chicago Southland and northwest Indiana. SSC provides a variety of support services and leadership opportunities to its students in addition to a wide range of affordable academic programs.

Adult Literacy at South Suburban College: Free Learning Opportunities are Available and Volunteer Tutors are Needed

SOUTH HOLLAND, IL– Illiteracy is an issue that can be debilitating in so many ways for adults who never received the proper instruction. Adults who are unable to read have a much more difficult time with many daily activities that others may take for granted, along with a clear disadvantage in today’s competitive job market. South Suburban College is currently seeking tutors and participants for the Adult Volunteer Literacy Tutoring Program. The program is structured to train volunteers to become one-on-one tutors for adults in need of basic literacy skills. Instruction in basic literacy includes the development of phonetic reading skills combined with communication skills. SSC is encouraging residents to take this opportunity to volunteer as a tutor or encourage someone you know to take advantage of the free program.

New tutor training sessions will take place at the Main Campus in South Holland on Tuesdays and Thursdays from May 3rd through May 19th and from June 7th through June 23rd from 4:00 –5:30 p.m. The tutor training is a 12-hour program that culminates with literacy training certification. Online training is also provided. Tutors will continue to receive free professional development services throughout this program. Successful tutors are also eligible for letters of support or recommendation for jobs, scholarships, educational opportunities, and more.

Once certified, SSC’s volunteer literacy tutors visit their adult learners at locations within or near their neighborhoods. Tutoring sites have already been established at the following locations: Acorn Public Library, Oak Forest; Glenwood-Lynwood Library; Harvey Public Library; Phoenix Public Library; Calumet City Public Library; Grande Prairie Library, Hazel Crest; Homewood Public Library; South Holland Public Library; South Suburban College Library, Main Campus; Oak Forest Center Library, Oak Forest; Lansing Public Library; Dolton Public Library; Riverdale Public Library; Blue Island Public Library; Dixmoor Public Library; Tinley Park Public Library; Markham Public Library and Midlothian Public Library. Tutoring is flexibly scheduled based on the availability of the tutors, learners and tutoring sites. 

SSC’s Office of Adult Education administers the Adult Volunteer Literacy Tutoring Program in addition to High School Equivalency (HSE), English as a Second Language (ESL), and Adult Basic Education (ABE). These opportunities are made possible by a grant awarded by the Illinois State Library (ISL), a division of the Office of Secretary of State, using state funds designated for literacy.

For more information or to register, please contact David Stephens, Adult Literacy Grants Manager, at (708) 596-2000, ext. 2558, or email DStephens@ssc.edu.

South Suburban College National Champion Basketball Team Earns Coach and Player of the Year Honors

SOUTH HOLLAND, IL– The South Suburban College (SSC) Men’s Basketball Team won the college’s first-ever National Junior College Athletic Association (NJCAA) Division II National Championship on March 19, 2022. They also earned the distinction as the first team in NJCAA DII history to go undefeated. Head Coach John Pigatti and the team visited the Regular Meeting of the South Suburban College Board of Trustees on April 14 to present their trophies and announce their newest national accolades including National Coach and Player of the Year awards.

“It’s always a pleasure to come before our college’s Board of Trustees under these circumstances,” said John Pigatti, NJCAA DII National Coach of the Year. “I’m so pleased that the Board is recognizing this team for what they did for the Bulldogs Athletic Program and for representing the college in a first-class manor throughout the entire season. But we want to thank the Board for all of their support, as well.”

Coach Pigatti adds his first National Championship to 12 Regional Championships he has won during his 16-year tenure as Head Coach of the SSC Men’s Basketball Team.

Freshman Guard, Demarco Minor, a local Thornton High School alumnus, earned National Player of the Year honors, among several other recognitions. “It felt great to represent my community at a national level,” said Minor. “All of the work – the sweat, blood and tears – we invested in the game to represent our community at the national level, was amazing. It feels good to see that all of our hard work paid off.”

In total, the individual accolades the 2022 National Champion Bulldogs earned include:

  • John Pigatti: NJCAA DII Coach of the Year
  • Damarco Minor: NJCAA Division II National Player-of-the-Year, Region IV-A Player-of-the-Year, MVP National Championship Tournament & Regional Tournament, 1st Team All American, National Player of the Week
  • Camron Donatlan: 3rd Team All-American, 1st Team All Region IV-A, All Tournament Team: National Championship and Regional Tournaments, National Player of the Week
  • Damontae Taylor: 2nd Team All Region IV-A, All Tournament Team: National Championship and Regional Tournament
  • Nmesomachi Nnebedum: All Tournament Team: National Championship Tournament

Chairman Terry R. Wells, who attended all but one game at the national tournament in Danville, IL, stated: “We could not be prouder of Coach Pigatti and the coaching staff, and especially our student-athletes not only for bringing SSC our first national championship, but also for the way they conducted themselves during the national tournament and throughout the extensive media coverage following their historic season. Congratulations on a job well done.”

For more information, contact Coach Pigatti at (708) 596-2000, ext. 2524, or email jpigatti@ssc.edu. SSC is located at 15800 South State Street, South Holland, Illinois.
 

a photo of the SSC Men’s Basketball Team presented its accolades to the Board of Trustees
Pictured: The South Suburban College National Champion Men’s Basketball Team presented its accolades to Chairman Terry R. Wells and the Board of Trustees in South Holland on April 14.

South Suburban College to Host Virtual Trades Thursday Event

SOUTH HOLLAND, IL– The Office of Enrollment Services at South Suburban College (SSC) welcomes the community to “Trades Thursday” on April 21, 2022 from 2 to 3 p.m. This virtual open house will be accessible via Zoom.

SSC offers options to learn various aspects of the trades. Eugene Damiani, Engineering and Technology Instructor, will show equipment offered at SSC and explain the hands-on experience in the Building Construction Technology Program and Welding Program.

Desmond Campbell, Manager of the SouthWorks Maker Lab, and instructor in the Electronic Engineering Technology Program and Computer-Aided Design Program, will discuss how electronics are tied to the trades and the advantages of having access to equipment in the Maker Lab. “Our program is a heavy hands-on approach to engineering. We give students the experience and fundamentals to complete projects,” said Campbell. “At SSC, you won’t be a number. Instructors and staff will teach you how and why you use certain methods of problem solving.”

For more information about “Trades Thursday,” call Christina Gutierrez, Manager of Onboarding and Outreach, at (708) 596-2000 ext. 2023. The Main Campus of South Suburban College is located at 15800 South State Street, South Holland, Illinois.

Summer registration is open at SSC with convenient classes beginning on Monday, June 6, 2022. Future SSC students can take their first step toward success by accessing the following link: https://ssc2.evo-clients.com/admissions-registration/.

A photo of EET and CADD instructor Desmond Campbell..
Pictured – Desmond Campbell, SSC Electronic Engineering Technology and Computer-Aided Design instructor, explains the use of a digital logic trainer.

South Suburban College Now Providing On-Campus COVID-19 Testing through SHIELD Illinois

The IDPH drive-thru COVID-19 test and vax site at SSC’s Main Campus has officially closed. Testing will now be conducted by SHIELD three days per week.

SOUTH HOLLAND, IL – South Suburban College is now providing COVID-19 testing services in South Holland through SHIELD Illinois three days per week: Mondays from 12 – 4 p.m., Wednesdays from 9 a.m. – 1 p.m., and Thursdays from 12 – 4 p.m. This announcement follows the Illinois Department of Public Health’s closure of most of its testing locations, including the drive-thru site that had benefited SSC’s community for more than a year.

SHIELD provides results quickly and is accessible in the Mi-Jack Room on the first floor of the college’s Main Campus at 15800 South State Street, South Holland, Illinois. While no appointment is necessary, Patients must create an account on Portal.shieldillinois.com using agency code df5brbrj to receive test results. Individuals needing a test may show up during testing hours or preschedule an appointment during those hours.

Ongoing COVID-19 information, testing changes and other updates are posted online regularly at ssc.edu/covid19.

#CCMonth: The Community College Advantage

Photo of Terry Wells

-Terry R. Wells, Chairman, South Suburban College Board of Trustees

More than 100 years ago, community colleges were created as publicly funded institutions of higher education at community-based facilities. They began a policy of welcoming all who wished to learn, regardless of age, race, gender, wealth or previous academic experience. The foundation of diversity, equity and inclusion. Community colleges have championed these ideals since inception.

Today there are more than 1,100 community colleges in the United States sharing common goals of accessibility with a commitment to high quality lifelong learning. Community colleges allow students to positively impact their lives, their families and their communities.

Everyone knows someone who is the product of the community college system. For some, it may have been a stepping stone toward an advanced degree, for others it may have been the last beacon of hope that inspired a newfound career path. A child, relative, friend, neighbor, or colleague who became a nurse, attained a specialized skill to return to work, earned a GED, was a first-generation graduate, transferred on scholarship to the University of Illinois, or even became a basketball national champion. No matter the goal, the success stories are all around us.

In spite of – at times – misconceptions, naysayers or even critics, the positive evidence is overwhelming when brought to light. Studies have repeatedly demonstrated the significant impact community colleges have on student outcomes, on training a skilled workforce, and on the local economy. In fact, a 2021 economic impact study by Northern Illinois University’s Center for Governmental Studies revealed the Illinois Community College system accounts for $3.5 billion in economic output and more than 43,000 jobs throughout the State.

Now in 2022, community colleges have emerged from an ongoing pandemic stronger than ever. New educational platforms, class delivery methods and student service models provide various opportunities for students to choose their own destiny. All while remaining a fraction of the tuition cost at the nearest university. And let us not forget the free community health role many of our institutions have played, most recently.

So, as we take a moment to recognize national Community College Month, let’s make sure we celebrate our shared reinvestment in an old core value: accessibility. Afterall, it’s what we’ve done better than anyone since 1901.

Share your community college stories on social media by tagging posts with #CCMonth.

Art Exhibition by Erin Smego on Display at South Suburban College

SOUTH HOLLAND, IL–The South Suburban College (SSC) Art & Design Department is pleased to present an exhibition of work by Erin Smego entitled, “Secondhand Aesthetics”. This art exhibit is currently on display in the Dorothea Thiel Gallery through the closing artist reception on Wednesday, April 27 at 1:00 p.m.

“I always LOVE making art,” the Chicago artist remarked about her installation at SSC. “It’s honestly a blessing and a curse sometimes, but today was a nice reminder of how sometimes it’s fun to just enjoy the art for what it is.” Smego’s abstract sculptures examine and deconstruct gender expectations through off-the-shelf fashions, textiles, and construction materials.

Smego received her Bachelor of Fine Arts degree from the School of the Art Institute of Chicago (2011) and was an artist-in-residence at HATCH Projects, Chicago Artists’ Coalition (2018). She has exhibited in numerous group exhibitions in the United States including 65Grand, THE SUB-MISSION, baby blue gallery, The Fulton Street Collective, The Art Center Highland Park and Bloomsburg University.

Smego has also exhibited solo installations at The Hermosa Walls, Ignition Projects, Stumble Chicago, and Boundary, as well as internationally at the Czong Institute for Contemporary Art Museum in Gyenggi-do, South Korea. She was awarded the Edna L. Cushing Annual Memorial Prize in a juried show Elements of Abstraction (2015) at the St. Louis Artists’ Guild as well as the Working Artist Organization Grant (2018).

The public is welcome to visit the art exhibition at no charge. The Dorothea Thiel Gallery is located on the fourth floor of SSC’s Main Campus. It is open Monday through Friday from 9:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m., excluding weekends and holidays. All SSC galleries are supported in part by the SSC Foundation.

For more information, please email jtassin@ssc.edu or call (708) 596-2000, ext. 2316. Temperature checks, masks and social distancing are required on campus. SSC is located at 15800 South State Street, South Holland, Illinois.
 

"Untitled" - sculpture
PICTURED: Art by Erin Smego from the “Secondhand Aesthetics” series.

South Suburban College to Offer New Summer Bridge Program to First-Year, First-Time Students

SOUTH HOLLAND, IL–South Suburban College (SSC) is providing an opportunity for 30 first-year, first-time students to earn seven free college credit hours in eight short weeks. The new First Year Experience (FYE) Summer Bridge Program will provide free tuition, books and fees, one-on-one tutoring, mentoring activities and leadership development.

Dr. Charles Collins is the SSC Summer Bridge Student Success Strategist. “The FYE Summer Bridge Program will help students begin their college experience in a focused environment, strengthen their academic skills, meet new friends while developing a peer support network, and become more familiar with the SSC campus and its resources,” he remarked.

Those interested in applying for the Summer Bridge Program are welcome to attend an informational session on April 14. Two options will be available via Zoom at 12 p.m. and 6 p.m. A confirmation email will be sent with details to access either session after registration is complete. Visit the following link to register: www.ssc.edu/summer-bridge.

An English, reading and math placement test are required prior to admittance into the Summer Bridge Program. The application deadline for this program is May 25. Options for orientation are available on either June 1 or June 2. The program will run Mondays through Thursdays from 9 a.m. to 12:45 p.m. from June 6 through August 1, 2022.

Questions about the Summer Bridge Program can be directed to Anissa Jones, Dean of Student Development, at (708) 596-2000 ext. 5708. This program will be offered on SSC’s Main Campus, located at 15800 South State Street, South Holland, Illinois.

SSC is a community college serving 21 communities including parts of the Chicago Southland and Northwest Indiana. SSC provides a variety of support services and leadership opportunities to its students in addition to a wide range of affordable academic programs.
 

The South Suburban College Main Campus building exterior.
PICTURED: The South Suburban College Main Campus building exterior.

Summer Registration is Underway at South Suburban College

SOUTH HOLLAND, IL–Summer registration at South Suburban College (SSC) is in progress and plenty of convenient course offerings are set to begin as early as June 6, 2022. SSC offers a wide selection of career education and college transfer programs individually tailored to the unique needs of every student.

Various resources are offered at SSC to guide students on their path to success. Special tuition programs are available for eligible individuals, as well as a Technology Relief Fund that provides students with items like laptops and course software to allow for a more effective virtual learning experience. Additionally, SSC’s Workforce Equity Initiative (WEI) grant provides financial assistance and academic support for participants within a variety of program areas. Many of these students receive stackable credentials.

Early enrollment is highly encouraged as summer courses are filling fast. Current students can login to self-service to register.

Information regarding registration services, such as in-person and remote hours of availability, and a “live chat” function to connect with staff, are available on the college’s Admissions and Registration webpage. Prospective students may also call (708) 210-5718 or email admissionquestions@ssc.edu for assistance.

SSC is a community college located in South Holland, Illinois serving 21 communities including parts of the Chicago Southland and Northwest Indiana. SSC provides a variety of support services and leadership opportunities to its students in addition to a wide range of affordable academic programs.
 

A photo of the South Suburban College Main Campus Student Entrance
PICTURED: The South Suburban College Main Campus Student Entrance.

South Suburban College Seeking Teachers for College for Kids Summer Program

SOUTH HOLLAND, IL– The Office of Continuing, Corporate and Community Education (C3) at South Suburban College (SSC) is seeking teachers to join the College for Kids teaching staff. This program will greatly enhance a child’s development this summer.

This program will begin on Tuesday, June 28, 2022 and conclude on Thursday, July 28, 2022. Classes will not be offered on Monday, July 4, 2022, as campus will be closed for the holiday.

Applicants must be 18 years of age or older and should be familiar with educating children in grades K-12. While teaching credentials are preferred, experience educating in a school setting is sufficient to apply for these paid positions. This program will explore reading, study skills, grammar and essays, math (including pre-algebra, algebra and geometry), foreign language (such as Spanish), and art.

“Teachers in the College for Kids program have a direct opportunity to positively impact the youth of our community through education,” said Gervaise Edwards, Manager of C3. “If teaching is your calling and the future is your concern, this opportunity is right for you. Teachers in this program influence, inspire and mentor our local children to have better, brighter futures.”

Call Gervaise Edwards at (708) 596-2000 ext. 5723 for more information or to apply to teach in this program. College for Kids will be offered on SSC’s Main Campus, located at 15800 South State Street, South Holland, Illinois.

 

A photo of the Main Campus in South Holland.
PICTURED – The South Suburban College main campus in South Holland, Illinois.

South Suburban College to Offer Summer Graphic Design Session to High School Juniors and Seniors

SOUTH HOLLAND, IL– The Art and Design Department at South Suburban College (SSC) invites students, who will enter their junior or senior year of high school in the fall of 2022, to learn about the Graphic Design Program this summer. This hands-on opportunity will run from June 6 – 16, 2022 between 9 a.m. and 11:45 a.m. Monday through Thursday on the South Holland campus in room 4431.

Participants will have the opportunity to work directly with Pamela Planera, who is not only the Graphic Design and Visual Communications Coordinator at SSC, but a professional graphic design artist and photographer as well. She will share details learned throughout her many years of experience in this exciting field while focusing on design elements incorporating professional Adobe software tools such as Illustrator and Photoshop. A variety of topics will be covered from print to animation.

Planera remarked, “If you are passionate about art and design, South Suburban College degree programs can teach you the skills to keep it at the center of your universe. In the graphic design summer session, students will be able to build a hands-on experience that combines traditional fine arts with today’s digital tools and techniques. The students will explore their creativity into a career path in graphic design.”

The enrollment fee for this non-credit session, called Graphic Design I, is $99. This opportunity is limited to 20 students. The deadline to apply for this summer session is June 2, 2022 or until full capacity is reached.

Contact Pamela Planera at pplanera@ssc.edu or (708) 596-2000 ext. 2211 for more information or to register. SSC is located at 15800 South State Street, South Holland, Illinois.

Photo of a graphic art instructor helping a student.
PICTURED: SSC Graphic Design and Visual Communications Coordinator, Pamela Planera (left), provides direction to a student on a graphic design project.

South Suburban College Men’s Basketball Team Completes Historic Season with National Championship – UPDATED

SOUTH HOLLAND, IL– The South Suburban College (SSC) Men’s Basketball Team won the National Junior College Athletic Association (NJCAA) Division II National Tournament on Saturday, March 19, 2022. The Bulldogs defeated Davidson-Davie Community College 79-63 at the Mary Miller Center in Danville, Illinois, to cap off a 33-0 season. They entered the tournament as the #1 seed as the national leader in points allowed, blocks and steals. The Bulldogs became the first NJCAA championship winner in school history in any sport. They also earned the distinction as the first team in NJCAA DII history to go undefeated.

“It is a great feeling to win the national tournament, but I am even more impressed that these men were able to go undefeated all year,” said Head Coach John Pigatti. “All of the credit goes to the players – they were really locked in and stayed focused together all week here in Danville. We played some excellent teams and still held three of our opponents to their lowest point totals and the fourth to their second lowest all year.”

Local talent Demarco Minor, a freshman guard from Thornton High School in Harvey, IL, was named Most Valuable Player of the tournament. He is joined on the All-Tournament Team by Damontae Taylor, a freshman forward from Zion-Benton High School in Waukegan, IL, Camron Donatlan, a sophomore guard from West Aurora High School in Aurora, IL, and Nmesomachi Nnebedum, a sophomore guard from Loy Norrix High School in Kalamazoo, MI.

“I am very appreciative of the support I have received since I came to SSC 16 years ago: from President Stokes and the Board of Trustees, the administration, our Athletic Director Steve Ruzich, and of course our fans,” Pigatti added. “I am proud to bring a championship home to such an outstanding school. These players and the entire South Suburban College community deserves this.”

Pigatti adds his first National Championship to 12 Regional Championships he has won during his 16-year tenure as Head Coach of the SSC Men’s Basketball Team.

SSC is inviting the community to celebrate with the team at a special Bulldogs Championship Banner Unveiling on Saturday, March 26 at 12 noon at the SSC Fieldhouse. All media and fans are encouraged to attend to view the banner, enjoy light refreshments, and hear from players, coaches and special guests.

For more information, contact Coach Pigatti at (708) 596-2000, ext. 2524, or email jpigatti@ssc.edu. SSC is located at 15800 South State Street, South Holland, Illinois.
 

SSC Bulldog forward Damontae Taylor cuts down the net.
PICTURED: South Suburban College forward Damontae Taylor cuts down the net in after the Bulldogs won the NJCAA DII National Championship in Danville, IL.

South Suburban College Opens Late Spring Class Registration for Free High School Equivalency and English as a Second Language Courses

SOUTH HOLLAND, IL–The South Suburban College (SSC) Adult Education Department has extended the enrollment period for its free High School Equivalency (HSE/GED) and English as a Second Language (ESL) programs. The late spring session is scheduled from April 18 through June 16, 2022. Most of the Adult Education programs are offered both full-time and part-time at the Main Campus in South Holland or at the Oak Forest Center. There are daytime, nighttime and online course options available.

Many adults choose to expand their skills and pursue a high school education through the HSE/GED program. This program will develop the skills required to pass the High School Equivalency exams. HSE for ESL is also available for students who plan to take the HSE/GED exam in English. The ESL program allows non-native students the ability to improve their English skills from beginning to advanced levels. All courses are offered free of charge.

HSE registration is made by appointment only at (708) 596-2000, ext. 2475 or 2411, or online at https://forms.gle/nBaUMMKjnMiz8RMU6 as follows:

  • March 15, 17, 21, 23, 29, 31, and on April 4 and 6 at 10 a.m. and 5 p.m. at the Main Campus, Room L233.

ESL registration is made by appointment only at (708) 596-2000, ext. 2475 or 2411, or online at https://www.quia.com/sv/1194173.html as follows:

  • March 15, 17, 21, 23, 29, 31, and on April 4 and 6 at 12 p.m. and 6 p.m. at the Main Campus, Room 1243.

At the time of registration, all HSE and ESL students will take a placement test; please expect to stay at least three hours. A mask must be worn at all times during the testing/registration process and no children are allowed. The following items are required at registration:

  • Current Illinois-Issued Photo ID
  • High School Withdrawal Letter (for students under 18)
  • Medical Card (if applicable)

For the purpose of compliance with Section 511 of Public Law 101-166 (the Stevens Amendment) Federal funds of $343,670 provide approximately 36% of the support of these programs. Indiana residents are not eligible to participate in the Adult Education programs. Per Governors order, all students in the Adult Education program are required to be vaccinated or tested a minimum of once per week for COVID-19 in order to attend classes.

New Art Exhibition Open to Community at South Suburban College

SOUTH HOLLAND, IL– The South Suburban College (SSC) Art & Design Department presents an exhibition of work by artist Lily Homer titled “It will be in the end these details”. Her art is on display in the Lee E. Dulgar Gallery on the fourth floor of the college’s main campus from March 7 through April 12, 2022.

Homer is a multi-media artist exploring issues of disillusionment, contradiction, Jewish diaspora and absurdity. She works with a range of techniques including embroidery, welding, lacemaking, collage and crochet. Her installations, wall-hangings and sculptures often present confusing or paradoxical situations, neither entirely figurative nor abstract, but somewhere in between.

Homer holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in architecture from Wesleyan University in Connecticut, and is currently pursuing a Master of Fine Arts degree in fiber and material studies from the School of the Art Institute of Chicago. She brings her family history of craftsmanship into her work, and develops a visual language from her own experiences with anxiety, irrationality and hope. The components of each object exist in various systems of support: reciprocal, asymmetrical, firm and unstable. Homer invites viewers to consider the ways the built world around us is composed of various interdependent systems of support.

The public is welcome to visit the art exhibition at no charge. Temperature checks, masks and social distancing are required on campus. The Dulgar Gallery is located on the first floor of SSC’s main campus. SSC gallery hours are as follows: Monday through Thursday 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Friday 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Galleries are closed on college holidays and weekends. For more information, contact Amy Babinec at (708) 596-2000, ext. 2202, or email ababinec@ssc.edu. SSC is located at 15800 South State Street, South Holland, Illinois.
 

A photo of "Untitled" A sculpture by Lily Homer
PICTURED: “Untitled 5” by Lily Homer is on display in the Lee E. Dulgar Gallery at South Suburban College.

South Suburban College Implements Office on Violence Against Women Grant Initiative

SOUTH HOLLAND, IL – South Suburban College (SSC) has partnered with the U.S. Department of Justice to implement the Office on Violence Against Women (OVW) grant. The ultimate objective of this initiative is to increase awareness and create effective responses to sexual assault, domestic violence, dating violence and stalking through various programs and training opportunities. This comprehensive approach includes both prevention and intervention, requiring a coordinated effort that engages SSC students, faculty, staff, administrators and key stakeholders from the surrounding community.

“According to a recent poll, nearly half (43%) of dating college women report experiencing violent and abusive dating behaviors,” said Alexandra Glumac, MS, LCPC, RDDP, SHRM-CP, OVW Program Director. “College students are not equipped to deal with dating abuse – 57% say it is difficult to identify and 58% say they don’t know how to help someone experiencing it. These are crucial numbers and a testament to why we need the OVW grant at the college.”

As a part of this grant, the college will review policies and procedures related to domestic/dating violence, sexual assault and stalking to ensure best practices. SSC’s law enforcement personnel will also attend training to ensure proper policies, procedures and legislation are in place. A dynamic Coordinated Community Response Team has also been tasked to ensure the comprehensive strategic plan objectives and goals of this grant are met. This group consists of various college administrators, faculty and staff as well as local social service agencies. External partnerships with YWCA Metropolitan Chicago and Anew: Building Beyond Violence and Abuse have also been established to ensure seamless access to external services available in the community.

Glumac added, “The kick off of our activities will begin in late March which coincides well with Women’s History Month. We will offer bystander intervention training to all students, faculty and staff. Participants will learn to engage in proactive behaviors that model and endorse norms that are incompatible with violence. The ultimate goal is not simply to react to potential violence as it is occurring, but rather to simultaneously shift community norms that support violence. We are really excited to bring this type of training to the college as it can make a difference with regard to someone’s safety and well-being.”

Dozens of other activities and events will be held throughout the year to galvanize the college community and spread the word about safety. This includes involvement in April’s National Sexual Assault Awareness Month and October’s National Domestic Violence Awareness Month. For more information about this initiative, contact Alexandra Glumac, OVW Program Director, at aglumac@ssc.edu.

SSC Men’s Basketball Undefeated Season Earns Bulldogs Home Court Advantage

SOUTH HOLLAND, IL– The South Suburban College (SSC) Men’s Basketball Team defeated Illinois Valley Community College on Sunday, February 27 to continue its historic, undefeated run. The Bulldogs earned home court advantage for the National Junior College Athletics Association (NJCAA) Region IV District 3 Championship Game to be held on Saturday, March 5 at 2 p.m. vs. Waubonsee Community College at the SSC Fitness Center/Fieldhouse. The game will be streamed live on the SSC Athletics YouTube channel.

The 2021-22 SSC Bulldogs regular season record of 28-0 marks its first undefeated season in school history. It is the first time an SSC Men’s Basketball Team finished as the #1 ranked team in the final NJCAA Division II poll. The winner of Saturday’s game will advance to the NJCAA Division II National Championship Tournament at Danville Area Community College from March 15-19, 2022.

For more information, contact Coach John Pigatti at (708) 596-2000, ext. 2524, or email jpigatti@ssc.edu. SSC is located at 15800 South State Street, South Holland, Illinois.
 

Photo of Damontae Taylor dunking the ball
PICTURED: Bulldogs forward Damontae Taylor dunks the ball during a regular season game.

Coping with the Pandemic: The search for a sense of control

An exhibition of photographs by Libby McArthur is now on display at South Suburban College.

 
SOUTH HOLLAND, IL–The Art & Design Department of South Suburban College is pleased to announce a special guest artist exhibition entitled Coping with the Pandemic: The search for a sense of control by Libby McArthur. The series of photographs are now on display in the Photo Four Gallery at South Suburban College from Tuesday, March 1st through Friday, April 22nd with an Artist Talk on Tuesday, March 15th from 1-2 p.m., in the Photo Four Gallery.

Libby McArthur is an art teacher and artist, born and raised in the suburbs of Chicago. She has a Bachelor’s in Art Education and a Master’s in Art. When the pandemic started, McArthur’s anxiety was ripping her apart and she began searching for ways to make her photography more meditative. As she began manipulating her photographs, she found the process of duplicating, rotating, and cropping her photos extremely therapeutic. As she worked, she found some days her photographs seemed more pointed and darker, while others seemed light and airy. But most often they began reflecting her moods and became an easy coping mechanism for her to detach from the worry around her, and the pain of so many caused by this uncertain time.

The SSC Photo Four Gallery is open Monday-Thursday, 9-5 p.m. The galleries are closed on weekends and holidays. The public is welcome to visit art exhibitions and receptions at no charge. Temperature checks, masks and social distancing are required on campus. For more information, please call Pamela Planera (708) 596-2000, ext. 2211 or email at pplanera@ssc.edu. SSC is located at 15800 South State Street, South Holland, Illinois.

“It Will Come Back” by artist Libby McArthur.
Pictured: “It Will Come Back” by artist Libby McArthur.

Free SSC Highway Construction Careers Training Program to Begin in April – UPDATED

Updated – February 22, 2022

OAK FOREST, IL–The Highway Construction Careers Training Program (HCCTP) at South Suburban College (SSC) is gearing up for their next free, short-term program. Registration for this training opportunity is currently open. Orientation and assessment testing will take place between March 15, 2022 and March 17, 2022. The application process begins at the mandatory one-hour informational orientation followed directly by assessment testing.

The HCCTP has been offered at SSC since 2014. Completers of the 12-week program are equipped with various skills that can lead to employment in the trades with high income potential. Career opportunities for those who complete the program include but are not limited to: iron worker, electrician, pipefitter, carpenter, laborer and equipment operator.

A goal of the SSC HCCTP is to increase the number of minorities, women and disadvantaged individuals working in Illinois highway construction. The HCCTP is funded through a partnership with the Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT), thus allowing the program to be free. While enrolled, students will be paid a stipend for each full hour of training completed.

The program will begin on April 4, 2022 and will run daily, Monday through Friday, between 8:00 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. Applicants must be 18 years of age or older, have a high school diploma or GED, an interest in working in the trades, and successfully pass a drug screening (including THC). They are also required to provide a valid driver’s license.

For more information, or to register, visit www.ssc.edu/hcctp or call (708) 596-2000, ext. 3219. All orientation and assessment testing will be held at SSC’s Oak Forest Center, located at 16333 South Kilbourn Avenue, Oak Forest, Illinois. Temperature checks, masks and social distancing are required on campus. Para información en Español, llame (708) 210-5740.

The Illinois Department of Transportation and the participating community colleges do not guarantee employment upon trainees’ graduation from the Highway Construction Careers Training Program.

A photo of a former student of the HCCTP works hands-on as an instructor oversees the process.
PICTURED: A former student of the Highway Construction Careers Training Program works hands-on as an instructor oversees the process.

Register Now for Non-Credit Classes at South Suburban College

SOUTH HOLLAND, IL– It’s not too late to get registered for classes at South Suburban College (SSC). SSC offers a variety of non-credit courses throughout the Spring 2022 Semester, with registration open right up to the start of class.

With the wide variety of online and in-person class times, course lengths and subject matter, students have the flexibility of fitting school around a busy schedule. Some of the programs available include but are not limited to:

  • Computers for Seniors
  • Computer Viruses
  • Art
  • Introduction to Photography
  • Expunge/Seal a Criminal Record
  • IL CCL Firearms Train Renewal
  • Conversational Spanish I
  • OSHA Safety
  • Event planning

Classes are starting throughout February. For more information about SSC’s non-credit classes or to register, please contact Continuing, Corporate, and Community Education (C3) at (708) 596-2000, ext. 2231, or visit www.ssc.edu. SSC is located at 15800 South State Street, South Holland, Illinois.

Historic Lady Bulldogs Soccer Team Recognized by South Suburban College Board of Trustees

SOUTH HOLLAND, IL – The entire South Suburban College (SSC) Board of Trustees and President Lynette D. Stokes, Ed.D., provided a standing ovation for the outstanding achievement of the Lady Bulldogs during their 2021 season. “This was the first time in school history that the SSC women’s soccer team experienced the National Tournament,” said Terry Wells, Chairman of the Board. “We are extremely proud of these talented student-athletes. Ladies, please enjoy your celebration tonight!”

This special recognition took place at the monthly meeting of the Board of Trustees on February 10, 2022 in the SSC Performing Arts Center (PAC). Following this acknowledgement, the student-athletes, coaching staff, family and friends gathered in the PAC lobby for refreshments and celebratory cupcakes as they cheerfully reflected on moments from a historic campaign.

“My favorite part about the season was getting to develop relationships with my teammates and build a strong bond with them through our love of soccer,” said Amaris González, a forward from Lansing, IL and daughter of Head Coach Tony González. “I’m so grateful to have found this other family unit at SSC.” González led the division with 105 points, 118 shots and 29 assists, earning the title of First Team All-American during her freshman season by the National Junior College Athletic Association Division II Women’s Soccer Committee.

Coach González remarked, “I’ve always been a local guy. That’s why I’m very passionate about the soccer program at South Suburban College. We strive to make our community proud. The way the girls played this season and how they handled themselves at the national tournament is really commendable.”

The SSC Women’s Soccer Team went on a 13-game winning streak during the regular season. They won a total of 16 out of 20 games in 2021. Their only four losses were to Waubonsee Community College (two games during the regular season) and Heartland Community College (one game during the regular season and one game during the national tournament). “My goal for the future is to maintain our program to compete at the national level on a regular basis. I want our soccer programs to bring respectability to our school and community at large,” Coach González concluded.

Contact Head Coach Tony González at jgonzalez@ssc.edu or Athletic Director Steve Ruzich at sruzich@ssc.edu for more information about the SSC Women’s Soccer Team. SSC is located at 15800 South State Street, South Holland, Illinois.
 

The South Suburban College women’s soccer program gifts Board Chairman Terry Wells with an NJCAA DII Championship t-shirt.
PICTURED: The South Suburban College women’s soccer program gifts Board Chairman Terry Wells with an NJCAA DII Championship t-shirt to commemorate their outstanding season.

In Memoriam: South Suburban College mourns “unparalleled” leader Frank M. Zuccarelli

SOUTH HOLLAND, IL – South Suburban College (SSC) announces the passing of longtime Board Chairman Frank M. Zuccarelli on January 3, 2022 at the age of 70.

“All of us at South Suburban College are profoundly saddened by the loss of our beloved leader Frank M. Zuccarelli,” said Dr. Lynette Stokes, SSC President. “On behalf of the college and our Board of Trustees, I extend our deepest condolences to his family and countless friends throughout our community.”

Zuccarelli, a South Holland resident, has served as a member of the South Suburban College Board of Trustees since 1978. In 2014, he received a service award from the Illinois Community College Trustees Association (ICCTA) recognizing his 35 years of service as a community college trustee. During his tenure, Zuccarelli witnessed SSC and the Illinois community college system grow from temporary buildings into the third largest community college system in the United States. He is only the fifth person out of more than 2,200 current and former trustees to reach this level of success in the entire state of Illinois.

“Chairman Zuccarelli left an indelible mark on both an institution and a community from his time as SSC Student Trustee through his 43-year tenure of service to our College Board,” Stokes added. “Frank’s tremendous intellect and leadership were instrumental in advancing SSC’s student-centered mission, while creating a collaborative atmosphere among faculty, administration and staff for over four decades. He was a champion for equity and inclusion and breaking down barriers to higher education. His compassion for students and passion for his college were unparalleled.”  

Zuccarelli enrolled at SSC–then Thornton Community College–in 1974 after he completed his enlistment in the United States Air Force where he served as a medic. Zuccarelli earned an Associate of Science Degree in 1976 and an Associate of Arts Degree in 1978 from SSC. He was elected to the unpaid post on the Board of Trustees in 1978, and was chosen by his peers to be the Chairman of the Board in 1987, a position he maintained ever since. Zuccarelli also served as Thornton Township Supervisor since 1993, among other public service roles.

Stokes concluded, “Frank Zuccarelli positively impacted the lives of thousands of people and his legacy will be felt in the halls of South Suburban College for many, many years to come. He will be dearly missed.”

Details regarding arrangements will be made available in the coming days.

Photo of Frank M. Zuccarelli addresses graduates
PICTURED – South Suburban College Board of Trustees Chairman Frank M. Zuccarelli addresses graduates at a commencement ceremony.

South Suburban College Appoints New Trustee Vincent Lockett, Elects Trustee Vivian Payne as Vice-Chair

SOUTH HOLLAND, IL–South Suburban College (SSC) recently held a special meeting before its Regular Meeting of the Board of Trustees on December 9 to appoint new Trustee Vincent E. Lockett to the board. Trustee Lockett will fill the vacancy created by the recent passing of longtime Trustee and Vice-Chair, John Daly. Lockett, of Country Club Hills, took his oath of office before participating in the regular meeting where Trustee Vivian Payne, of Lansing, was elected to serve as the new Vice-Chair to the board.

“I am looking forward to serving the Southland community in this new role and bringing attention to the all of the educational pathways this outstanding community college has to offer,” said Lockett. “I would like to thank Chairman Zuccarelli and the Board for providing me with this new opportunity to make a positive impact.”

Throughout his career, Lockett actively supported economic development, public safety, and education. In addition to being elected alderman of Country Club Hills Ward 2 for six consecutive terms since 2005, Lockett currently serves as Chairman of the Finance Committee and Insurance, Risk and Personnel Committee in his community. He has also served as Chairman of the Planning, Zoning and Development Committee while maintaining membership on the Parks and Recreation and Public Works committees, respectively.

For the past 12 years, Lockett has been the owner and CEO of GCS Cleaning and Environmental Services. He has also worked in the automotive finance and mortgage industries for over 25 years. Lockett has four children and is a strong advocate for mentoring the youth. He currently sponsors the Country Club Hills Cougars, Hazel Crest Mustangs, Midwest Hawks, Junior Olympics and Special Olympics.

South Suburban College is a community college located in South Holland, Illinois, and with an extension site in Oak Forest serving 21 communities including parts of the Chicago Southland and northwest Indiana. SSC provides a variety of support services to its students in addition to a wide range of affordable academic pathways. For more information about all of SSC’s programs, admissions and registration, please visit www.ssc.edu or contact the Admissions Office at (708) 210-5718. Spring classes begin Tuesday, January 18, 2022.

Vincent E. Lockett (pictured left) was sworn in as South Suburban College Trustee
PICTURED – Vincent E. Lockett (pictured left) was sworn in as South Suburban College Trustee at a special meeting before the December 9 Regular Meeting of the Board of Trustees.

Free SSC Highway Construction Careers Training Program to Begin in February

OAK FOREST, IL–South Suburban College (SSC) is preparing for the next round of its free Highway Construction Careers Training Program (HCCTP). Registration for 2022 spring training is currently open. Orientation and assessment testing will take place between January 11, 2022 and January 13, 2022. The program will begin on February 7, 2022 and will run daily, Monday through Friday, between 8:00 a.m. and 4:30 p.m.

A goal of the SSC HCCTP is to increase the number of minorities, women and disadvantaged individuals working in Illinois highway construction. The HCCTP is funded through a partnership with the Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT), thus allowing the program to be free. While enrolled, students will be paid a stipend for each full hour of training completed.

SSC has offered the HCCTP since 2014. Those who finish the short-term, 12-week program are equipped with numerous skills that can lead to employment opportunities in the trades with high income potential. Career opportunities for program completers include but are not limited to: electrician, pipefitter, carpenter, laborer and equipment operator.

Applicants are required to provide a valid driver’s license. They must also be 18 years of age or older, have a high school diploma or GED, an interest in working in the trades, and successfully pass a drug screening (including THC). The application process begins at the mandatory one-hour informational orientation followed directly by assessment testing.

For more information, or to register, visit www.ssc.edu/hcctp or call (708) 596-2000, ext. 3219. All orientation and assessment testing will be held at SSC’s Oak Forest Center, located at 16333 South Kilbourn Avenue, Oak Forest, Illinois. Temperature checks, masks and social distancing are required on campus. Para información en Español, llame (708) 210-5740.

The Illinois Department of Transportation and the participating community colleges do not guarantee employment upon trainees’ graduation from the Highway Construction Careers Training Program.
 

A photo of a former student of the Highway Construction Careers Training Program
A former student of the Highway Construction Careers Training Program finalizes work on a concrete project.

Last Chance Registration in the New Year for Free High School Equivalency & English as a Second Language Courses at SSC

SOUTH HOLLAND, IL–South Suburban College’s Adult Education Department has extended the enrollment period for its free programs in the New Year on January 12-14, 2022. Many adults choose to further build on their skills and pursue a high school education through the High School Equivalency (HSE/GED) program. The HSE program will develop the skills required to pass the High School Equivalency exams. English as a Second Language (ESL) allows non-native students to improve their English skills from beginning to advanced levels. HSE for ESL is also available for students who plan to take the HSE/GED exam in English.

Most of the Adult Education programs are offered both full and part-time at the Main Campus in South Holland or the Oak Forest Center. All classes are free of charge. There are daytime, nighttime and online course options available. Registration by appointment only by calling (708) 596-2000, ext. 2475 (or 2408 for ESL) or online at ssc.edu/adult-continuing-education. The registration schedule for spring classes – beginning January 18, 2022 – is as follows:

LAST CHANCE High School Equivalency Registration Days
January 12, 13, 14, 2022
10:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. at Main Campus Room L233

LAST CHANCE English as a Second Language Registration Days
January 12, 13, 14, 2022
10:00 a.m. and 6:00 p.m. at the Main Campus Room 1243

At the time of registration, all HSE and ESL students will take a Placement Test; please expect to stay at least three hours. A mask must be worn at all times during the testing/registration process. The following items are required at registration:

  • Current Illinois-Issued Photo ID
  • High School Withdrawal Letter (for students under 18)
  • Medical Card (If Applicable)
  • No Children Allowed

All courses are offered free of charge. For the purpose of compliance with Section 511 of Public Law 101-166 (the Stevens Amendment) Federal funds of $343,670 provides approximately 36% of the support of these programs. Indiana residents are not eligible to participate in the Adult Education programs.

Per the Governors order, all Students in the Adult Education program are required to be vaccinated Per the Governors order. All Students in the Adult Education program are required to be vaccinated or be tested a minimum of once per week for COVID-19 in order to attend classes.