Month: February 2023

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

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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

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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

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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

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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

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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

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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

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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.