Summer Classes at South Suburban College – 50% Discount for Summer Classes at Oak Forest Center for All Students

SOUTH HOLLAND, IL – Summer is a great time to take a few classes and our schedule will be available online at www.ssc.edu beginning Monday, March 6 at 8 a.m. with registration opening on Monday, March 20, 2017. Summer classes begin Monday, June 6th at the college’s Main Campus and Oak Forest Center. Don’t wait; classes fill quickly. The summer session allows students to begin or continue their college experience with SSC, or to come home from their four-year institution to take additional credits conveniently and at a more affordable rate.

SSC is also offering a special 50% discount for summer classes at the Oak Forest Center. The discount is only applicable at the Oak Forest Center in order to promote expanded offerings at this location, and is good for all credit classes on a first come, first served basis.

Current and prospective students are encouraged to complete their Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) now to increase opportunities for funding assistance, enroll early and create their preferred schedule at SSC. Visit www.fafsa.gov to apply for financial aid using institution code 001769. Additionally, the SSC Foundation 2017 Scholarship Books and Applications are available online at www.ssc.edu/foundation. The primary SSC scholarship application deadline is Friday, March 31st, however, graduating high school seniors can continue to apply for high school graduate scholarships throughout the spring and summer months.

Students who wish to use financial aid as payment for summer classes must have an official high school or GED transcript on file. Official transcripts must have a school seal and graduation date on them. Transcripts can be hand-delivered to the Admissions Office or mailed to: Office of Admissions (15800 South State Street, South Holland, IL 60473). If a transcript is hand-delivered it must be in the original sealed, unopened envelope.

Prospective students should complete the Online Application Form at www.ssc.edu to begin the enrollment process. New students will receive an SSC email account and a “My SSC” Username & Password via email which will allow access to the online schedule and class registration. The My SSC portal also allows students 24-hour access during college closed periods.

You will also want to register early for fall to get the courses you want when you want them. Our fall schedule will be available online beginning Monday, April 3, 2017 with registration opening on Monday, April 17, 2017.

Contact the Office of Admissions at (708) 210-5718 for enrollment and waiver information, or email the Foundation Office at foundation@ssc.edu with questions about scholarship opportunities. SSC’s Main Campus is located at 15800 South State Street, South Holland, Illinois. The Oak Forest Center is located at 16333 South Kilbourn Avenue, Oak Forest, Illinois.

SSC’s Oak Forest Center

SSC Opens New Reading Center

SOUTH HOLLAND, IL – South Suburban College was the proud host of the grand opening of their new Reading Center. The center, funded in part with federal grant funds, is the result of a collaborative initiative to increase student retention and strengthen academic progress.

Assistant Vice-President of Academic Services and Institutional Effectiveness, Dr. Ron Kawanna, was very pleased with the staff and student turnout as the Reading Center was officially opened for business. College officials, including President Don Manning, Vice-President of Student Development Songie Adebiyi, Dean of Student Services Patrice Burton, Reading Department Chairperson Jennifer Kraft, as well as college faculty Rick Jones, English; Dr. Janaya Shaw, Reading; Linda Bathgate, Counseling; Alfred Brown, English; Diana Gutierrez, HSC for ESL; and Sue Cline, Reading turned out among the many who came to see what the Reading Center had to offer and the services it provides to our students. With posted days and times, the Reading Center offers a wide range of hours available to assist our students.

Located in Room 3228 of the Main Campus, the new Reading Center is equipped with computers and the latest software technology to assist those who might need help with a wide range of Reading concerns from basic comprehension to more advanced topics such as Speed Reading. Another goal of the center is to assist African American males with Reading skills that will help them matriculate through South Suburban College with a certificate or degree, in well over 100+ academic, career and training programs. More information about the Reading Center is available by calling 596-2000, ext. 2540.

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.

Reception in the new SSC Reading Center
The Grand Opening of SSC’s New Reading Center was well attended by students, faculty and administrators.

Art Exhibition Coming to South Suburban College’s Thiel Gallery in March

SOUTH HOLLAND, IL – In celebration of Women’s History Month, the Art & Design Department of South Suburban College is pleased to present a solo exhibition entitled Salt of the Earth by Margie Glass Sula. The exhibition will be on display in the Dorothea Thiel Gallery March 6 – March 28th with an artist reception on March 7th from noon-1:30.

Margie Glass Sula creates artworks that reintroduce the curious world of nature through her visual interpretation of simple forms, and exploration of art making materials. Her works range from drawing, painting, to abstract sculptures, which often change venues from indoor to outdoor. Glass Sula’s works all convey the same strange, quiet, and intriguing world that often lurks in nature that we fail to see, and have led to her becoming an award-winning visual artist; exhibiting work at the national level, along with landing works in public, as well as numerous private collections. Currently, she is an Adjunct Professor of Fine Art at Joliet Junior College in Joliet, IL, a WSSC Artist in Batavia, IL, a Juried artist showing works at Tall Grass Arts Association, Park Forest, IL, and member of the National Women’s Caucus for Art, who have published her works in numerous exhibition catalogues. To view a gallery of her work, please visit margieglasssula.com.

The public is welcome to visit art exhibitions and receptions at no charge. The Dorothea Thiel Gallery is located 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. Contact (708) 596-2000 ext. 2316.

Pictured: “Pendulum” by Artist Margie Glass Sula

History Lesson

Hey guys!  It’s Black History month. The first event that I had pleasure in participating in was the African American History Contest: African American Firsts. From questions asking about the first African American writer down to the first African American president, I had gained an extreme amount of knowledge. The contest is still open until February 28, 2017, and if you need an incentive to take part, there will be three names drawn to win a thirty dollar voucher for the South Suburban College bookstore.

Last week I was also able to attend the Poetry Slam and Open Mic w/ Jus Words. This was unlike any other event that I have been to. From personal pieces from those who came up to the mic and even a few poems that our generation has never heard of, the works of art shared were moving. The best part, besides having received a free t-shirt, was watching the energy of everyone who walked on stage. Even though the audience’s participation wasn’t fully there, this first-time event needs to continue. And to those first timers who were brave enough to take the stage and share, I applaud you. Maybe next time I’ll have the guts to read something of mine.

To top off my recent involvements with Black History month here at South Suburban College I attended the Black History 101 for Everyone with Art Burton. Burton was a former professor here and he had a lot of information to give. There were a few things I did find interesting but of course the one I am most excited to share has to do with music. For starters, I was amazed at how each style of music literally came from African American culture! It does not matter what type you prefer, without this culture many forms would not be around today. I also was unaware that Jazz is considered to African Americans as their form of classical music! I suggest that if you are curious to know more that you look it up and spend some time doing in-depth research.

 

South Suburban College Foundation Seeks Support for Scholarship Fundraiser Gala

SOUTH HOLLAND, IL – Each year the South Suburban College Foundation (SSCF) has an annual spring gala from which all proceeds benefit scholarship programs. The SSCF is now seeking support from local residents, friends and partners for Showcase 2017: Change a Life–Change a Community, celebrating SSC’s 90-year legacy. This year’s event will be held on April 7, 2017, at Odyssey Country Club. The gala begins at 6:30 p.m. and features an open bar and premier buffet dinner, silent auction, dancing, and the outstanding music of Rhonda High Browne & Pieces.

With the cost of higher education on the rise and the level of state funding on the decline, students are finding it more and more difficult to afford a full-time college education. The SSC Foundation’s support is often critical for students to begin or continue their college education. Individuals and local businesses can support this mission while marketing themselves to approximately 300 guests through tax-deductible sponsorships and auction gifts. Tickets are also available for $125 each.

Donations for this cause are fully tax deductible. Registrations and sponsorships can be made online from www.ssc.edu/foundation. The Foundation Staff will pick up donations for auction. For more information, please call (708) 596-2000, ext. 2463 or email foundation@ssc.edu.

The SSC Foundation is a philanthropic, not-for-profit organization governed by a Board of Directors composed of 27 of the south suburban area’s finest business, civic and community leaders. The SSCF has now awarded over $1.8 million in scholarships since 1989. In 2016, over $100,000 in scholarship funds were awarded to SSC students.

Change a Life - Change a Community

2017 Chicago Women’s Conference & Expo Coming to SSC on March 17th

SOUTH HOLLAND, IL – South Suburban College (SSC) proudly announces Caprice O’Bryant as the Keynote Speaker for the 2017 Chicago Women’s Conference on Friday, March 17th located at the college’s Main Campus in South Holland, Illinois. This year’s theme “You Can!” marks the 9th annual event planned through the college’s Business and Career Institute (BCI). Women of all backgrounds ages 18 and up are welcome to come together for one day dedicated exclusively to women.

This year’s keynote, Caprice O’Bryant, is a walking miracle. Two serious injuries and a major illness couldn’t keep her down. After her recovery, this dynamic 23-year-old entrepreneur earned her certification as a nutrition specialist through the National Academy of Sports Medicine, opened Excuse Free Fitness, Inc. in downtown Homewood, Illinois and has appeared on numerous television talk shows including You & Me This Morning and Windy City Live. Caprice’s motto is, “You can do ALL things!” which has inspired her followers to get healthy, increase their confidence and connect with their inner power. Caprice’s message of hope, perseverance and courage will have you believing in your own capabilities!

The positive feedback and participation has grown tremendously since the event’s inception. Last year over 350 participants and 50 vendors participated in this truly unique opportunity. SSC invites all women to join in the experience and connect with hundreds of other women this March.

In addition to an exciting Keynote from Ms. O’Bryant, this year’s event will again include networking, shopping, and will present over 15 speakers on topics including Personal Empowerment, Health & Wellness, and Business & Finance, along with a “We Can” panel that will feature a poignant discussion with powerful women who rose to the challenge and are making profound differences in their communities.

The cost of admission is just $25 per person with advance registration, or $35 at the door. The conference fee includes a continental breakfast, lunch, and admission to all of the break-out sessions.

For more information, or to register for the 2017 Chicago Women’s Conference, please call (708) 596-2000, ext. 6055 or visit www.TheChicagoWomensConference.com. SSC is located at 15800 South State Street, South Holland, Illinois.

Caprice O’Bryant will deliver the keynote address at SSC’s 9th Annual Chicago Women’s Conference on Friday, March 17, 2017, in South Holland.

South Suburban College March Musical Performances

Please note: This calendar is correct at the time of publication and is subject to change. Unless otherwise stated, all events are held in the Kindig Performing Arts Center (PAC) on SSC’s Main Campus and admission is FREE for these events. (Donations are appreciated to benefit the Music Scholarship Fund.)

March 8, 2017 at 7:00 pm
Jazz Combo and SSC Voices
Hot jazz for a cold night. The musicians of SSC’s Jazz Combo will thrill you with tunes by jazz legends.

March 10, 2017 at 7:00 pm
Symphonic Band and String Orchestra

March 20, 2017 at 7:00 pm
Band of Brothers Pipes and Drums
Comprised solely of active and retired firefighters from Fire Departments within the states of Illinois and Indiana.

March 22, 2017 at 12:00 pm
Lecture Recital
By David Howard, SSC Professor of violin.

For more information regarding concert performances, and to confirm performance dates, call (708) 596-2000, ext. 2316. South Suburban College is located at 15800 South State Street, South Holland, Illinois.

South Suburban College and Thornton Township Partner To Provide Education and Training for Residents

SOUTH HOLLAND, IL – South Suburban College and Thornton Township have pooled resources to help residents with training and job opportunities. This collaboration has saved taxpayer dollars by helping clients get off of General Assistance and into gainful employment. For the past 18 months, residents have received almost 7,000 hours of training, resulting in at least 150 job placement opportunities. Residents have received training and education in OSHA, Forklift certification, Food Safety and Sanitation, various computer skills and many others.

Additionally, General Assistance participants have received Adult Education training in order to receive their GED diploma, with 57 participants between the food pantry and Riverdale Community Center. “I am grateful to Thornton Township and South Suburban College for providing me with a chance to better myself,” said resident Vincent Love. Love added, “Because of this program, I was able to get training and find a job. I don’t have to rely on General Assistance, anymore.”

More information on Thornton Township programs is available at www.ThorntonTownship.com. South Suburban College GED information is available at (708) 596-2000, ext. 2227. 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.

African American History Month Programs Coming To South Suburban College

SOUTH HOLLAND, IL – South Suburban College’s Office of Student Life & Leadership presents four programs open to the public at no charge in honor of African American History Month.

Poetry Slam and Open Mike w/Jus Words
Date: Wednesday, February 8, 2017
Time: 11:30 a.m. – 1:30 p.m.
Place: SSC Cafeteria
SSC welcomes Chicago Author, Songwriter, Street Poet and Spoken Word Artist Bwana “Jus Words” Phillips. Transitioning from being a member of the “Four Corner Hustler” organization to a unique writer, Jus Words took his interest of the gangs and streets and combined his writing skills to create lyrical storylines. Most of his story lines focus on the rugged realities of the blocks in Englewood and Roseland Communities.

African American History 101 for Everyone
Date: Wednesday, February 15, 2017
Time: 10:00 a.m. – 10:50 a.m.
Place: Kindig Performing Arts Center
This is one presentation you will not want to miss! Retired SSC History Professor Art Burton will share with you some unknown facts about African American History that you should know but probably never heard of. You will be entertained, educated and fascinated as he gives you exciting true facts about the Africa American experience beginning with Mother Africa (the cradle of civilization) to our present. Mr. Burton is the author of three award-winning books and is a highly regarded African American history consultant and lecturer.

How to Feel Good About Yourself
Date: Tuesday, February 21, 2017
Time: 1:00 p.m. – 2:15 p.m.
Place: Kindig Performing Arts Center
If you like feeling good (and who doesn’t) then this event is for you. Poetry is Yusef’s first love, but “How to Feel Good about Yourself,” a self-empowerment manual, is his current pride and joy. Yusef writes what he feels; he hopes you feel what he writes. Yusef Ali El was born in Chicago and grew up in Pembroke Township, Illinois. He received his B.A. from the University of New Hampshire and a Masters in Literature from Governors State University. He has published five books in the last three years. Please join us for this exciting presentation.

Muntu Dance Theatre of Chicago
Tuesday, February 28, 2017
Time: 7:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m.
Place: Kindig Performing Arts Center
Students, Faculty and Staff are invited to a musical concert and cultural immersion featuring the Muntu Dance Theatre of Chicago. Founded in 1972, the Chicago-based Muntu Dance Theatre performs authentic and progressive interpretations of contemporary and ancient African and African American dance, music and folklore. Immediately following the performance, participants will be given tickets to join us for a “Taste of Soul” in the Kindig Performing Arts Center Lobby.

For more information on these events, please contact Corrie Gray of Student Programming, at (708) 596-2000, ext. 2499. South Suburban College is located at 15800 South State Street, South Holland, Illinois.

 

Muntu Dance Theatre of Chicago
Pictured: Muntu Dance Theatre of Chicago

 

Cafeteria and Food Vending Services

South Suburban College is interested in receiving proposals for the provision of cafeteria and food vending services, for a term of five (5) years as per the attached requirements and specifications.

Full cafeteria service must be in place no later than May 25, 2017.

Mandatory Proposal Meeting:
February 13, 2107 – 10:00 AM – President’s Conference Room

Proposal Opening:
February 21, 2017 – 10:00 AM – President’s Conference Room

Award:
A five year contract for the provision of cafeteria and food vending services was awarded to Hometown Suburban Vending, Inc./DIGRA, Inc. dba Fratellos on March 9th, 2017.