South Suburban College Men’s Basketball Team Historic Journey to the NJCAA Division II National Championship Tournament

Posted on March 28, 2024April 1, 2024 by Webmaster

SOUTH HOLLAND, IL – South Suburban College (SSC) proudly announces the exceptional achievements of its Men’s Basketball Team during the 2023-2024 season, culminating in a historic journey to the NJCAA Division II National Championship Tournament.

The team’s remarkable season, marked by perseverance, teamwork, and outstanding performances, is exemplified by their impressive 34-3 record. Key victories include a decisive triumph in the Midwest District A Championship over Waubonsee CC, with a final score of 94-82. Standout players Quentin Heady and Reggie Abram were recognized for their exceptional performances, earning spots on the District Tournament All-Tournament Team, while Jemel Jones secured the title of Tournament MVP.

Advancing to the NJCAA Division II National Championship Tournament, SSC continued its winning streak, securing victories against formidable opponents. In an exhilarating journey to the championship game, the team displayed their skill and determination, ultimately securing the title of National Runner-Up.

Notable individual achievements and recognitions further highlight the team’s excellence. Head Coach Pigatti was honored as the Midwest District A Coach of the Year, a testament to his leadership and dedication. Jemel Jones, named Region IV Player of the Year, achieved remarkable milestones, including scoring over 1000 points in the season and leading college basketball. Quentin Heady and Julius Byrd were also recognized for their exceptional contributions, earning spots on the Region IV 1st and 2nd teams, respectively.

Throughout the season, SSC Men’s Basketball Team achieved numerous milestones, including Coach Pigatti’s 500th career win and the team’s 64th consecutive home game victory. Their consistent dominance in college basketball is reflected in their impressive rankings, finishing the regular season ranked #3 in the country. Additionally, SSC holds the distinction of being the winningest basketball program in college basketball over the past 18 seasons.

“It was quite the season. Our players accomplished a lot this season. I am very proud of their commitment, work ethic and their ability to overcome a lot of adversity this season. To get to the National Championship game was quite an accomplishment. We had a lot of accolades this season, but more importantly was their ability to come together as a team and grow as young men. The 2023-24 Men’s Basketball team has a lot to be proud of.”

South Suburban College congratulates the Men’s Basketball Team on their outstanding season and looks forward to continued success in the years to come.

Pace Bus is Hiring at South Suburban College on April 3, 2024

Posted on March 28, 2024May 28, 2024 by Webmaster

South Holland, IL – South Suburban College (SSC) and Pace Bus are pleased to announce another 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 Wednesday, April 3, 2024, from 5:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m., SSC will host a pre-hiring event for job seekers to meet with Pace staff. During the 3-hour event, applicants will complete a screening process in the MB Financial Bank Room on SSC’s 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. Candidates are responsible for the cost of the MVR, which is $20.

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’s Main Campus. Qualified candidates who complete the two-week course will transition to 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.

PHOTO: Pace Bus Hiring

Postseason Honors: 2023-2024 Men’s Basketball Program

Posted on March 28, 2024April 24, 2024 by Webmaster

Congratulations to Coach John Pigatti and the SSC Men’s Basketball Team! The Bulldogs completed the 2023-2024 season with a record of 34-3, and a 2nd place finish at the national tournament on March 23, 2024.

View Postseason Honors:

Won the NJCAA Midwest District A Championship:
*Defeated Waubonsee Community College (94-82) for the Title
*2 Players Named to the District All-Tournament Team: Quentin Heady and Reggie Abram
*Tournament MVP: Jemel Jones

Runner-Up at the NJCAA Division II National Championship Tournament:
*1st Round: Defeated Florida State College – Jacksonville (86-79)
*Quarterfinal Game: Defeated Parkland College (79-70)
*Semifinal Game (Final 4): Defeated Ellsworth Community College (89-75)
*Championship Game: Defeated by National Park College (84-79)
*3 Players Named to the National All-Tournament Team: Jemel Jones, Julius Byrd and Quentin Heady
*Jemel Jones Led All Players in Scoring at the National Tournament with 147 Points

More Notable Recognition for Student-Athletes and Coaching Staff:
*National Association of Basketball Coaches selected Jemel Jones to the ’23-’24 NJCAA DII All-America Team The NABC also named Jones the National 2-Year College Player-of-the-Year
*Jemel Jones Named NJCAA DII National Player-of-the-Year: Jones is the Fourth Student-Athlete in the Last Five Years to Earn this Recognition Under Coach Pigatti’s Leadership
*Coach Pigatti Named Midwest District A Coach of the Year (13th Time in 18 Seasons at SSC)
*Jemel Jones Named Region IV Player-of the Year (This season, Jemel was named National Player of the Week twice, scored over 1,000 points, and led all of college basketball (regardless of division: NCAA, NJCAA, NAIA) in scoring.)
*Quentin Heady Named Region IV 1st Team All-American
*Julius Byrd Named Region IV 2nd Team All-American

Ranking & Milestones Reached in 2023-2024 Season:
*Bulldogs Won Their 64th Consecutive Home Game
*Coach Pigatti Earned 500th Career Win at Game on December 16, 2023
*Coach Pigatti’s Record as SSC Men’s Head Basketball Coach: 523-93
*Coach Pigatti has Most Wins at the National Championship Tournament of Any Coach in History
*SSC Men’s Basketball Team Has the Most NJCAA Division II National Tournament Appearances of Any Team in the Country
*Over The Past 18 Seasons, the Men’s Basketball Team had the Most National Players of the Year, and the Most 1st Team All Americans of Any School in the Nation
*SSC Men’s Basketball Team Finished the Regular Season Ranked 3rd in the Country
*SSC Men’s Basketball Team Ranked #1 at Least 9 Times in the Past 18 Seasons
*SSC Men’s Basketball Team Ranked in Top 15 Poll Every Year Under Coach Pigatti’s Leadership (18 Seasons)
*Over the Past 18 Seasons, the Bulldogs are Winningest Program in All of College Basketball

IMAGE: National Junior College Athletic Association (NJCAA) logo.

Summer Registration is Happening Now at South Suburban College

Posted on March 21, 2024 by Webmaster

South Holland, IL – South Suburban College (SSC) Summer registration is now in progress and we have ample convenient course offerings set to begin June 3, 2024. SSC offers a wide selection of career education and college transfer programs individually tailored to the unique needs of every student. SSC serves 21 communities including parts of the Chicago Southland and Northwest Indiana. We provide a variety of support services and leadership opportunities to our students in addition to a wide range of affordable academic programs.

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 at www.ssc.edu. Prospective students may also call (708) 210-5718 or email admissionquestions@ssc.edu for assistance.

PHOTO: The South Suburban College Main Campus Student Entrance.

South Suburban College Foundation Invites You to Our Annual Scholarship Gala, Hollywood Awards: A Black & White Affair

Posted on March 20, 2024March 20, 2024 by Webmaster

South Holland, IL – South Suburban College is thrilled to announce the long-awaited return of its annual Gala after a hiatus due to the pandemic. This year’s event “Hollywood Awards: A Black & White Affair,” promises an unforgettable evening dedicated to Dreams, Success, and Scholarships. 

Scheduled to take place at the prestigious Odyssey Country Club in Tinley Park, IL, on Saturday, April 27, 2024, doors will open at 5:00pm for an elegant night filled with dinner, dancing, a silent auction, special awards, and NAACP Image Award Nominee and SSC Alumnus, LaRoyce Hawkins as the keynote speaker.

Hawkins, a proud product of the South Chicago Suburbs, has captivated audiences with his role as Officer Kevin Atwater on the NBC hit drama Chicago PD. His journey from SSC to Hollywood serves as an inspiration to our students and community members alike.

Additionally, we are thrilled to welcome WGN Evening News Anchor and SSC Alumnus Ray Cortopassi as the Master of Ceremonies for the evening. 

The Gala proceeds will directly contribute to scholarships, cultivating a culture of success and pride among our students and communities and fostering lifelong learning. By supporting this event, local businesses and community members will be vital in empowering students to pursue their dreams and achieve academic success.

“We are excited to bring back our annual Gala, and this year’s ‘Hollywood Awards: A Black & White Affair’ promises to be an extraordinary event,” said Dr. Lynette D. Stokes, President of South Suburban College. “We invite the entire community to join us for an evening of celebration and support for student success!”

Take advantage of this opportunity to be a part of a remarkable evening. Mark your calendars and join us for a night of glamour, entertainment, and philanthropy as we come together to make a difference in the lives of our students.

For sponsorship opportunities, tickets, and more information, please visit https://www.ssc.edu/gala. If you have any questions, please email Foundation at foundation@ssc.edu.

PHOTO: The South Suburban College Foundation Gala 2024

South Suburban College Invites You Join Our GED and ESL Classes – Registration Now Open!

Posted on March 18, 2024 by Webmaster

SOUTH HOLLAND, IL– The Adult Education Department at South Suburban College (SSC) is excited to kick-off the General Education Diploma (GED) and English as a Second Language (ESL) Programs. Classes begin on Monday, April 15, 2024.

Are you or someone you know interested in furthering their education? Our Adult Education programs offers comprehensive instruction to help individuals achieve their academic and professional goals. To register for GED classes, please call extension 2411 or 2475 or to register for ESL classes, please call extension 2408 to schedule an appointment.

SSC is dedicated to making a positive impact on our community’s education and workforce development through lifelong learning.

For more information, please contact Raylynn Stokes, Director of Adult Education via email at rstokes@ssc.edu or call (708) 596-2000 Ext. 5762. Please visit www.ssc.edu for a comprehensive listing of non-credit classes.

PHOTO: The South Suburban College Main Campus in South Holland, Illinois.

Exhibition of Artwork by Tracie Cheng on Display in South Suburban College Dulgar Gallery

Posted on March 15, 2024March 15, 2024 by Webmaster

SOUTH HOLLAND, IL–The South Suburban College (SSC) Art & Design Department is presenting an exhibition of work by artist Tracie Cheng entitled “Pattern Recognition” in the Lee E. Dulgar Gallery on the first floor of the Main Campus. Her work is available for viewing from March 18 through April 18, 2024. A closing reception will be held on April 18 at 11:00 a.m.

Tracie Cheng is a Taiwanese American artist weaving lines and paint into dynamic visual dreamscapes. She very consciously observes life around her-absorbing stories and experiences-subconsciously watching as they unfold onto the canvas. Her work is meant to be a reflection of life’s textured complexities, giving voice to her ever-evolving relationship with faith, culture, ethnicity and narrative.

Tracie attended the University of Texas in Austin and graduated with a degree in architecture. After several years of architectural work, her desire to shape environments shifted to the visual arts. Her artistic style channels aspects of Chinese brush painting, abstraction, with some architectural sensibilities sprinkled throughout, continually shaped by the beauty and intricacies of the different cultures around her. Tracie finds joy navigating this artist life alongside her son and sculptor husband in Connecticut.

The public is welcome to visit the art exhibition and reception at no charge. The SSC Dulgar Gallery is open Monday from 11:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m., Tuesdays and Thursdays from 12:00 – 9 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.

PHOTO: “Pattern #7″ Acrylic and oil on synthetic paper 22×30, 2024

South Suburban College Men’s Basketball Wins District Championship

Posted on March 14, 2024March 14, 2024 by Webmaster

South Holland, IL – South Suburban College (SSC) Congratulates the Men’s Basketball Team! The SSC Bulldogs advanced to the NJCAA Division II National Championship Tournament which will be held March 18-23rd at Danville (IL) Area Community College. The South Suburban Bulldogs (31-2) will open the tournament as the #2 seed and play the winner of the Howard Community College / Florida State Jacksonville game. They will play on Tuesday, March 19, 2024 at 8pm.

The #3 ranked Bulldogs won the Midwest District A Championship on Saturday, March 9th with a 94-82 victory over Waubonsee Community College. SSC was led in scoring by sophomore guard Jemel Jones’ 29 points. Jemel also grabbed nine (9) rebounds and dished out eight (8) assists. Jones’ teammates played together in harmony! Three (3) sophomore guards scored in double figures: Chris Harrison (16 pts.), Reggie Abram (14pts.), and Julius Byrd (11 pts.) Freshman forward Quentin Heady also scored in double figures for SSC as he chipped in 14 pts), while grabbing eight (8) rebounds. Teammates Heady and Abram were named to the All-Tournament Team. Jones was named the Tourney MVP. We commend our men’s basketball team for a job well done!

Special acknowledgment to Coach John Pigatti and his commitment to excellence by earning Midwest District A Coach of the Year Award (it is his 13th time in 18 seasons winning this prestigious award)!

For more information on the Men’s Basketball Team, contact Coach John Pigatti via email at jpigatti@ssc.edu or call (708) 596-2000 Ext. 2524.

PHOTO: South Suburban College Bulldogs (Men’s Basketball Team)

South Suburban College Youth Workforce Innovative Opportunity Act Orientation Begins Next Week

Posted on March 14, 2024March 14, 2024 by Webmaster

South Holland, IL – South Suburban College (SSC) is excited to announce Youth Summer Jobs Program through the Youth Work Force Innovative Opportunity Act (WIOA). WIOA’s Out of School Youth Program is designed to assist individuals ages 17-24 with job preparation skills that can lead to careers, employment, and Work Experience (WEX).

The WEX Program is temporary employment with the goal of the qualified students to gain work experience at SSC or companies in partnership with WIOA. Accepted students will receive paid work experience, job referrals, transportation, paid tuition, resume writing skills, and job readiness skills. Orientations will be held at the SSC Oak Forest Campus located at 16333 S. Kilbourn Ave, Oak Forest, IL. The public can register online at Eventbrite for one of the upcoming orientation dates. Save your seat now for one of the upcoming orientation dates of Thursday, March 21st, April 4th, or April 18th.

SSC is dedicated to serving our youth and community through meaningful and impactful programs that are both educational and provides real life work experience. For more information on the Youth WIOA Orientation, contact Brianna Wells, Manager Workforce Development Department via at bwells@ssc.edu or call (708) 596-2000 ext. 3230 or Kenneth Cohn, Director of Workforce Development via email at kcohn@ssc.edu or call (708) 596-2000 ext. 6066

PHOTO: The South Suburban College Main Campus in South Holland, Illinois.

South Suburban College’s Introduction to Paralegalism Course Earns National Quality Matters Certification

Posted on March 13, 2024 by Webmaster

South Holland, IL – South Suburban College (SSC) proudly announces its inaugural nationally certified Quality Matters (QM) course certification, reinforcing the institution’s dedication to delivering high-quality online learning experiences. Quality Matters certification was awarded to the synchronous online course PLA 101 Introduction to Paralegalism in October 2023, marking a significant milestone in SSC’s commitment to excellence in online education. The course, led by tenured professor Becky Walters—also the Program Coordinator for Paralegal Studies, Criminal Justice, and Legal Studies—underwent a meticulous preparation process in collaboration with SSC’s Center for Teaching and Learning for the Quality Matters review.

According to Becky Walters, J.D., “Our Law and Paralegal Studies program is entirely online. As such, it is vital that our students have access to and benefit from well-designed, easily navigable online classrooms. We strive to make their online classroom experience positive to the point at which it is even superior to any in-person classes.”

The Quality Matters review, conducted by national QM-Certified Reviewers, validates the course’s quality and learner-focused design, utilizing the Quality Matters Rubric and associated Standards based on research and best practices. This certification places the course alongside other major universities and colleges on the QM directory of nationally certified courses. QM certified courses proudly display the QM Certification Mark, symbolizing a commitment to the highest standards in online education. Dr. Tasha Williams, Vice-President of Academic Services, remarked, ” I am proud to witness the attainment of Quality Matters certification for our Introduction to Paralegalism course at SSC. This achievement reflects our unwavering commitment to delivering high-quality, learner-focused online education.”

In addition to obtaining QM certification for a paralegal course, SSC stands out as the exclusive community college in the South Suburban Chicago region with its Paralegal program approved by the American Bar Association (ABA). The college is also an institutional member of the American Association for Paralegal Education (AAfPE). SSC’s Paralegal program has earned recognition from the American Bar Association for its Access to Justice and Pro Bono initiatives, including the distinctive, community-based Expungement Clinic. Furthermore, it received acknowledgment from the Illinois State Bar Association in the September 2021 ISBA article, “The Problem-Solving Court Boom.”

Dr. Lynette Stokes, President of SSC, expressed her satisfaction with the accomplishment, “As President of South Suburban College, I am proud of the accomplishments of our Paralegal program, especially the Quality Matters certification achieved by our Introduction to Paralegalism course. This certification highlights the collaborative efforts between Criminal Justice, and Legal Studies, and SSC’s Center for Teaching and Learning during the Quality Matters review process.”

The attainment of QM certification underscores SSC’s unwavering commitment to continuous improvement. PLA 101 Introduction to Paralegalism is now listed on the QM directory of nationally certified courses can display the QM Certification Mark on the course syllabus, within the course in the learning management system, and on the college’s website and catalog system.

The Paralegal program is excited to announce a series of virtual workshops scheduled for April 22, May 13, June 10, and August 5th. The workshops will take place from 6:00 – 7:00 pm central time. Designed to provide valuable insights into the field of paralegal studies, each workshop offers participants the opportunity to explore various aspects of the profession, including job prospects, program curriculum, and career pathways. The first workshop, scheduled for April 22nd, will serve as an open house event, allowing attendees to interact with program faculty and learn more about the program’s offerings. To register for the April 22nd open house, interested individuals can visit
https://zoom.us/meeting/register/tJwvdumgqjIqGN3bs8K0xPQ2aUSW6pZ6sIrj to register.

For additional details regarding the Introduction to Paralegalism course, QM course certification, and enrollment in the August 2024 cohort, please reach out to Becky Walters,
Program Coordinator for Paralegal Studies, Criminal Justice, and Legal Studies, via email at bwalters@ssc.edu or call 708-596-2000, ext. 2579. SSC continues to enroll students actively. For enrollment details, please reach out to the College and Career Success Center at (708) 210-5718 or email admissions@ssc.edu. For information in Spanish, please call (708) 210-5740. The main campus of South Suburban College is situated at 15800 South State Street, South Holland, Illinois. Additionally, the Oak Forest Center, the college’s extension site, is located at 16333 South Kilbourn Avenue, Oak Forest, Illinois.

PHOTO: The South Suburban College Main Campus in South Holland, Illinois.

South Suburban College for Kids Seeking Teachers for Summer Program

Posted on March 8, 2024March 13, 2024 by Webmaster

SOUTH HOLLAND, IL– The Office of Continuing, Corporate and Community Education (C3) at South Suburban College (SSC) is set to launch its College for Kids program this summer. Open to children entering grades K-12, the program promises an enriching educational experience. Offerings include exploration of reading, study skills, grammar and writing, math, Spanish, arts & crafts, step aerobics, and game creation.

South Suburban College extends an invitation to passionate educators to join its team for College for Kids, commencing on Monday, June 24, 2024, and concluding on Thursday, July 25, 2024. Please note, classes will not be held on Tuesday, July 4, 2024, due to the campus closure for the holiday.

“Participation in this program offers children a diverse range of academic pursuits, ensuring that their educational skills remain sharp throughout the summer break,” stated Gervaise Edwards, Manager of C3. “This experience serves as a catalyst for shaping brighter futures for our young participants.”

For further details, please reach out to Gervaise Edwards, Manager of the C3 Department, at (708) 596-2000, ext. 5723. The program will take place at SSC’s Main Campus, located at 15800 S. State St., South Holland, IL 60473. Please visit www.ssc.edu for a comprehensive listing of non-credit classes.

PHOTO: The South Suburban College Main Campus in South Holland, Illinois.