South Suburban College Men’s Basketball Player AJ Abrams Named NJCAA Division II National Player of the Week

Posted on January 27, 2026January 27, 2026 by Webmaster

South Holland, IL — South Suburban College Men’s Basketball sophomore guard AJ Abrams has been named the NJCAA Division II National Player of the Week, a prestigious honor recognizing his outstanding performance on the court.

Abrams, who currently ranks fourth in the nation in scoring, delivered a historic all-around effort in the Bulldogs’ 116–67 victory over Black Hawk Tech. He posted an impressive triple-double with 29 points, 10 rebounds, and 10 assists, added three steals, and shot an incredible 87% from the field.

The recognition comes as the No. 8-ranked SSC Bulldogs continue a strong season, holding a 14–2 overall record.

Head Coach John Pigatti praised Abrams for both his performance and perseverance:

“I am happy for AJ. He has put up great numbers in the past and has not been recognized nationally. This is special for him and well deserved.”

Abrams’ national honor highlights not only his individual excellence but also the continued success of the South Suburban College Men’s Basketball program as it competes at a high level on the national stage.

For more information about SSC Athletics, visit https://www.ssc.edu/athletics/.

PHOTO: South Suburban College Men’s Basketball Team Member – AJ Abrams

About South Suburban College
Founded in 1927, South Suburban College is a comprehensive public community college located in South Holland, Illinois. SSC is committed to lifelong learning and community development through affordable, accessible, and high-quality education. With a diverse student body and a wide range of academic and career programs, the College continues to foster innovation, equity, and excellence in higher education. 

South Suburban College Announces Spring 2026 Art & Design Exhibition Lineup

Posted on January 27, 2026January 27, 2026 by Webmaster

South Suburban College’s Art & Design Department is pleased to announce its Spring 2026 exhibition schedule, featuring dynamic work by regional high school students and educators, professional artists, and SSC students. Exhibitions will be presented throughout the semester in the Dorothea Thiel Gallery, Lee E. Dulgar Gallery, and the Sculpture & New Media Gallery.

The semester opens with the Regional High School Student Art Exhibition and the Regional High School Teacher Art Exhibition, on view February 2–26. These exhibitions celebrate the creativity, talent, and dedication of regional high schools. Both shows will conclude with a joint reception on Thursday, February 26, from 6:00–7:00 p.m., and the community is warmly invited to attend and celebrate the artistic accomplishments of local students and educators.

Spring programming continues with compelling solo exhibitions, including Dawn Holder: What We Gathered (February 2–April 16) in the Sculpture & New Media Gallery and Mary Ann Trzyna: Earthly Delights (March 9–April 16) in the Dorothea Thiel Gallery.

Also featured is Marina Kuchinski: Close to the Ground, on view March 9–May 7 in the Lee E. Dulgar Gallery. This exhibition will be accompanied by an artist demonstration and reception on April 15. The demonstration will take place in the Ceramics Studio (Room 4348), where the artist will share their process of forming an animal head using the solid clay construction method. This event is open to all and offers a unique, behind-the-scenes look at the creative process behind the exhibited works.

The semester concludes with the Biannual Student Art Showcase, held May 4–7, highlighting outstanding artwork by SSC students across multiple gallery spaces.

All exhibitions and related events are free and open to the public. For gallery hours and additional information, visit https://www.ssc.edu/services/art-galleries/.

PHOTO: Students view art in gallery.

South Suburban College Announces C3 Class Offerings Focused on Skill Building and Career Advancement

Posted on January 22, 2026January 23, 2026 by Webmaster

South Holland, IL — South Suburban College (SSC) is proud to announce a new lineup of Continuing, Corporate, and Community Education (C3) class offerings designed to help individuals build in-demand skills, enhance professional knowledge, and prepare for career advancement across multiple industries.

These flexible, workforce-focused programs are ideal for students, working professionals, and community members seeking practical training and real-world skills. Current C3 offerings include:

• AI for Business Course: ChatGPT & Copilot (36-hour online course) – Develop cutting-edge digital skills by learning how to leverage AI tools to improve productivity, communication, and business efficiency.
• Construction & Trades – Gain hands-on, industry-relevant skills in a high-demand field.
• Clinical Dental Assistant Certification Training – Prepare for a rewarding career in healthcare with practical, job-ready training.
• Veterinary Assistant Program – Build foundational skills needed to support veterinarians and animal care teams in a growing healthcare field.
• Real Estate Principles – Learn the essential knowledge required to begin or advance a career in real estate.

SSC’s C3 programs are designed to be accessible, practical, and aligned with today’s workforce needs, helping participants strengthen their skill sets and open doors to new career opportunities.

For more information on any of the listed courses, please contact Donna Bradford at Ext. 2231 or visit C3 Programs.

PHOTO: A “Spring C3 2026” graphic.

South Suburban College Hosts MLK Day Celebration in Partnership with Thornton Township High School District 205 and Thornton Township

Posted on January 22, 2026January 22, 2026 by Webmaster

South Holland, IL — South Suburban College (SSC) proudly hosted its annual Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Day Celebration on Monday, January 19, bringing together students, educators, community leaders, and residents for a powerful and inspiring afternoon of reflection, unity, and purpose. The celebration, which welcomed over 300 attendees, was presented in partnership with Thornton Township High School District 205 and Thornton Township, underscoring a shared commitment to service, equity, and community engagement.

Held on SSC’s main campus, the event honored the enduring legacy of Dr. King through thoughtful programming centered on hope, perseverance, and collective responsibility. This year’s theme, “From a Dream… Comes Hope,” reminded attendees that even in challenging times, Dr. King’s vision continues to inspire action, resilience, and progress.

“Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s legacy challenges us to lead with courage, compassion, and a resolute commitment to justice,” said Dr. Lynette Stokes, President of South Suburban College. “At South Suburban College, we believe education is one of the most powerful tools to advance Dr. King’s dream. This celebration reflects our shared responsibility to uplift our communities, invest in our students, and work collectively toward a more just and equitable future.”

SSC Board Chairman Terry Wells echoed those sentiments, emphasizing the importance of collaboration and civic responsibility. “Dr. King taught us that real progress is achieved when communities come together with purpose and resolve,” said Wells. “Events like this remind us that South Suburban College is not only an institution of learning, but a cornerstone of community leadership—committed to fostering opportunity, dialogue, and meaningful change for generations to come.”

The program featured remarks and reflections from community leaders and partners, including Rev. Dr. Ozzie Smith of Covenant United Church of Christ of Christ, Thornton Township Supervisor and Illinois State Senator Napoleon Harris, III, along with participation from Thornton Township High School District 205, Thornton Township, SSC faculty, staff, and students. Performances and presentations throughout the celebration emphasized the importance of education, civic leadership, and collaboration in advancing Dr. King’s vision.

South Suburban College extends its sincere appreciation to Thornton Township High School District 205, Thornton Township, program participants, and all who contributed to making the 2026 MLK Day Celebration a meaningful and impactful experience. Together, SSC and its partners remain committed to honoring Dr. King’s legacy through education, service, and community-centered leadership.

For more information about South Suburban College and upcoming community events, visit www.ssc.edu.

PHOTO: Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Event Graphic

South Suburban College Foundation to Host MLK Business Brunch & Awards Ceremony

Posted on January 8, 2026January 13, 2026 by Webmaster

South Holland, IL — The South Suburban College (SSC) Foundation will host its MLK Business Brunch & Awards Ceremony on Thursday, January 15, 2026, from 1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m., honoring the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. while recognizing outstanding leaders whose service, advocacy, and business excellence reflect Dr. King’s enduring vision of equity, justice, and community empowerment.

This annual event brings together business leaders, elected officials, community advocates, faculty, staff, and supporters for an afternoon of reflection, networking, and celebration. The program will feature an awards ceremony recognizing individuals and organizations who have made significant contributions to their communities through leadership, service, and economic impact.

The event will also feature a Keynote Address by Don Biernacki, Executive Vice President of Construction at Related Midwest, who will share insights on leadership, economic development, and the importance of investing in strong, inclusive communities.

2026 Award Honorees include:
• MLK Service Award Recipient:
Toni Preckwinkle, Cook County Board President
• Coretta Scott King Service Award Recipient:
Donna Miller, Cook County Commissioner
• Rev. Leon Sullivan Award Recipients:
Patrick & Tiffany Kamara, Owners of St. Patrick’s Restaurant In Dolton, IL
• Community Champion Award Recipient:
Dr. Joyce Ester, President of Governors State University
• Business of the Year Award Recipients:
DeAndre & Alexus Rucker, CEOs of Rucker & Rucker

“These honorees truly exemplify the spirit of Dr. King’s work through their unwavering dedication to service, leadership, and uplifting our communities,” said Dr. Kellie Martin, Executive Director of the SSC Foundation. “We are proud to partner with such transformative leaders, recognizing not only their impact, but also their continued commitment to our community and to creating meaningful, lasting change.”

The SSC Foundation MLK Business Brunch & Awards Ceremony underscores the Foundation’s mission to foster community partnerships, promote educational access, and support initiatives that strengthen the South Suburban region.

To RSVP or for additional information, please contact Executive Director Dr. Kellie Martin via email at kmartin@ssc.edu.

South Suburban College’s Steve Ruzich Inducted into ABCA Hall of Fame

Posted on January 5, 2026January 5, 2026 by Webmaster

Longtime Bulldogs Coach Honored with Nation’s Highest Collegiate Baseball Coaching Distinction

South Holland, IL – South Suburban College (SSC) is proud to announce that longtime Head Baseball Coach Steve Ruzich will be inducted into the American Baseball Coaches Association (ABCA) Hall of Fame on Friday, January 9, 2026 in Columbus, Ohio. This is the highest honor bestowed by the ABCA. This distinguished recognition places Ruzich among the most elite coaches in collegiate baseball history.

Coach Ruzich has been a fixture at SSC for four decades, dedicating his life to building one of the most successful programs in NJCAA baseball history. With a remarkable career record of 1,385-817 (.629) through the 2025 season, he ranks fifth all-time in wins among NJCAA coaches.

Under his leadership, the SSC Bulldogs have captured 15 regional championships, made two NJCAA World Series appearances, and secured nine regional runner-up finishes. The program’s most impressive campaign came in 2005 with a school-record 51 wins and a staggering .823 winning percentage.

Ruzich’s accolades include 14 NJCAA Region IV Coach of the Year honors, and he has mentored countless student-athletes, including six who advanced to Major League Baseball—most notably Tony Cingrani and Rob Mackowiak.

In addition to his ABCA Hall of Fame induction, Ruzich was previously inducted into the NJCAA Baseball Coaches Hall of Fame in 2014 and was honored with the inaugural NJCAA Coaches Legacy Award in June 2025, recognizing the all-time winningest coaches in NJCAA history.

“Coach Ruzich’s impact on South Suburban College, on the lives of his student-athletes, and on the game of baseball is immeasurable,” said SSC President Dr. Lynette Stokes. “His legacy extends well beyond the field, and we are thrilled to see him receive the national recognition he so deeply deserves.”

Coach Ruzich’s ABCA Hall of Fame induction celebrates not only his winning record but his enduring commitment to the game and to developing generations of student-athletes on and off the field.

For more information about South Suburban College Athletics, please visit www.ssc.edu.

PHOTO: South Suburban College’s Head Baseball Coach Steve Ruzich