South Suburban College Delays Start Date Until January 18 to Benefit Students

SOUTH HOLLAND, IL – The South Suburban College (SSC) Board of Trustees voted unanimously to delay the Spring 2022 Semester start date until January 18, 2022. The move was presented by the college’s executive leadership team at their December 9 Board Meeting as a “student-centered” academic calendar adjustment. The proposal comes after “more than a month of planning, including dialogue with students and faculty,” according to Dr. Lynette Stokes, SSC President.

SSC’s goal for the eight-day delay is to provide current and prospective students with additional time for both in-person and remote registration, counseling, financial and student services between the on-campus return from holiday closure on January 4, and the short turnaround to the start of classes. Students may continue to navigate the college’s newer processes for applying for free laptops from www.ssc.edu/technology-relief-fund/ and the SSC Student Debt Relief Fund from www.ssc.edu/student-debt-relief-fund through the additional time frame.

Stokes noted an additional benefit as it relates to COVID-19: “Safety remains the college’s primary concern and with holiday travel we want to start the spring semester with an abundance of caution.”

In response to the board action, SSC has added three new dates for registration and counseling services to be available for students on previously closed days as follows:

  • December 28, 10:00am–2:00pm: Virtual Services
  • December 29, 10:00am–2:00pm: Virtual Services
  • January 15, 9:00am–2:00pm: In-Person Services

The semester will be extended with finals week now pushed back to May 16-21 and Commencement on Sunday, May 22, while all other scheduled activities including spring break week will remain unchanged.

To request help with enrollment, current and new students may access a LIVE CHAT button from ssc.edu, call (708) 210-5718 or email registration&records@ssc.edu.

Lady Bulldogs Experience National Tournament and All-American Recognition

SOUTH HOLLAND, IL – The South Suburban College (SSC) Women’s Soccer Team experienced their most successful season to date with an appearance at the National Junior College Athletic Association (NJCAA) Division II National Tournament. Following this competition, one SSC student-athlete went on to be named First Team All-American by the NJCAA DII Women’s Soccer Committee.

After defeating the Sea Devils of Cape Fear Community College 4-2 in the national tournament on November 16, the Lady Bulldogs came full circle as they faced the Hawks of Heartland Community College (HCC). The SSC Women’s Soccer Team fell to the Hawks 4-2 in their first game of the regular season on August 20. Although the Lady Bulldogs put their best foot forward on the field, they came up short to HCC on November 17 with a 4-1 loss, thus eliminating them from further tournament play this season. The Hawks of Normal, IL pressed on to inevitably win the 2021 NJCAA Division II Women’s Soccer Championship.

“The first and last day of the season, I tell my student-athletes: God always gives you what you earn. Nothing less, nothing more,” said SSC Head Coach Tony González, who began coaching the Lady Bulldogs Soccer Team in the fall of 2017. “This year we received a bid to play in the national tournament and won our first match. When you reach the goal of having your school be seen at a national level, it brings credibility to the athletic program.”

The only other losses for the Lady Bulldogs during their 2021 season were to the Chiefs of Waubonsee Community College on October 23 (4-0) and November 6 (1-0). The SSC Women’s Soccer Team tacked 16 wins onto their record against all other opponents, including an exceptionally commendable 13-game winning streak during the regular season.

Coach González added, “A lot of the girls on our soccer team are first-generation students. The experience of going to college and playing soccer at a national level can be life-changing for the student-athlete and their families. I want to keep that momentum going.”

One of the leading forces behind the success of the Lady Bulldogs was Amaris González, who happens to be Coach González’ daughter. The freshman forward’s outstanding field play earned her recognition as First Team All-American. González scored four goals in two national tournament games, including a hat-trick against Cape Fear. She also led the division with 105 points, 118 shots and 29 assists on the season, and finished second in goals with 38.

“I am so thankful to be able to play alongside such a talented team,” said Amaris González of Lansing, IL. “They helped guide me to get to where I am now as a student-athlete. I would not have experienced any accomplishments this season had it not been for every single one of the girls on the soccer team at SSC.”

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

Photo of SSC Women's Soccer team at NJCAA Nationals in Wichita, Kansas
The South Suburban College Women’s Soccer Team finish their 2021 season with a record of 16-4.

In Memoriam: South Suburban College Trustee John A. Daly

HOMEWOOD, IL – In front of a socially distanced capacity crowd of family, friends and colleagues at Ravisloe Country Club, South Suburban College (SSC) Board Chairman Frank M. Zuccarelli emotionally read from a “Resolution in Memoriam” of longtime Trustee and Vice Chair of the College’s Board of Trustees John A. Daly, Sr. at his Celebration of Life on November 29, 2021.

“Whereas, Trustee Daly was a respected and popular Member of the College Board. His well-reasoned and insightful observations and proposals were warmly received by his fellow Trustees and served as the foundation of many undertakings which benefited the administration and the student body,” Zuccarelli remarked. “As testimony of the high regard in which he was held, he became Vice Chairman of the Board in 1994 and served in that capacity until he was called to contribute to a new constituency.”

Zuccarelli, along with sons Kevin and John Daly, Jr., sister Mary Louise Pisone and State Senator Michael Hastings shared heartfelt memories, stories and life lessons of a man who dedicated his life to public service. “John’s political fund was called ‘People for Daly,’ but we all knew it really was Daly for people,” said Kevin Daly.

In 1983, Daly was elected Alderman in the City of Oak Forest, serving the 4th Ward until 1989, when he became City Administrator. He became Administrator for the Village of Orland Hills in 1994. A past Chairman of the Chicago Southland Convention and Visitor’s Bureau and member of the Southwest Conference of Mayors, Daly also chaired the South Suburban Mayors and Managers Association’s Management & Finance Committee from 1996 until he retired from the Village in 2015.

Daly served as a member of the SSC Board of Trustees since 1991. He passed away while still in office on November 11, 2021. A resident of both Oak Forest and Tinley Park, Daly was a strong advocate for local students and a champion of the college’s Oak Forest Center. He was also a generous supporter of the SSC Foundation where the Daly family has established the John A. Daly Memorial Fund to help future students in need. Donations may be made by check payable to “SSC Foundation” or online at: www.johndalyfund.givesmart.com

Daly would have turned 72 years old on this night of celebration. His obituary is available at: https://memorials.lawnfh.com/john-daly/4781609/index.php

Zuccarelli concluded, “Be it further resolved that this resolution be spread upon the records of South Suburban College for all to see and that a true copy hereof be delivered to the family of John A. Daly, Sr. as a sign of our respect and sympathy.” The resolution will be presented for passage at SSC’s December 9 Board Meeting, after which a complete transcript will be available at: www.ssc.edu
 

SSC Trustee Tony DeFilippo, Chairman Frank M. Zuccarelli and Mike Monaghan, former Executive Director of the ICCTA, and Vice-Chair John Daly. Monaghan presented the ICCTA Service Award to both Daly and DeFilippo in 2019.
Pictured from left to right: SSC Trustee Tony DeFilippo, Chairman Frank M. Zuccarelli and Mike Monaghan, former Executive Director of the ICCTA, and Vice-Chair John Daly. Monaghan presented the ICCTA Service Award to both Daly and DeFilippo in 2019.

South Suburban College to Host Virtual Q&A Sessions Next Week for Future Students

SOUTH HOLLAND, IL–South Suburban College (SSC) continues its efforts to provide flexibility to college degree seekers interrupted by the pandemic with a wide range of online and in-person class options, as well as significant tuition and technology supports. Current and prospective students can learn more about the all of the advantages of becoming an SSC Bulldog at two Virtual Q&A Sessions next week on December 1 at 6 p.m. and December 2 and 12 noon. Faculty and staff will be available through Zoom to address a wide range of topics and answer questions about registration, financial assistance, programs, facilities and much more. Visit www.ssc.edu/info for access to the Virtual Q&A Sessions.

Spring Registration is now in progress online from ssc.edu. The 2021 Spring Semester begins the week of Monday, January 10, 2022. All current and prospective students are encouraged to register early to secure grant opportunities, their preferred course schedule and mode of classes delivery.

The New Year is an excellent opportunity for students to take a giant step in their success by customizing a class schedule at high quality and supportive institution. New SSC students should get started with the Online Application from ssc.edu. Once the application process is complete, new students will receive an SSC email account and a Self Service Username & Password via email which will allow access to student information and class registration.

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.

South Suburban College Court Reporting and Paralegal Programs to Offer Open Houses on December 2

SOUTH HOLLAND, IL– South Suburban College (SSC) is hosting open houses to showcase its cutting-edge Court Reporting/Verbatim Technology and Paralegal/Legal Assistant Programs. Both concentrations offer a multitude of benefits that lead to prosperous careers in highly skilled, in-demand occupations.

Prospective students interested in learning about the unique career opportunities in the field of court reporting/verbatim technology may participate in the Court Reporting Open House December 2 from 6-7:30 p.m. The Court Reporting Open House will take place in-person at the Oak Forest Center in Room 5170. Attendees are required to RSVP to LaTherese Cooke, Court Reporting Program Coordinator, at LCooke@ssc.edu or (708) 596-2000, ext. 3217.

According to data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), court reporters and captioners can earn an annual salary of $80,000 and beyond. These professions offer excellent income potential and a wide-open job market with various options for remote work. Many of these professionals have the option to set their own schedule and work on a variety of projects from high-profile trials to captioning sporting events.

Prospective students interested in learning about the Paralegal/Legal Assistant Program can attend either in-person or virtually on December 2 from 6:30-7:10 p.m. Activities include a Q&A session in the Oak Forest Center Law Library and the opportunity to observe a Legal Research & Writing class. Attendees are required to RSVP to Becky Walters, J.D., Program Coordinator, at bwalters@ssc.edu or (708) 596-2000, ext. 2579.

SSC provides the only American Bar Association (ABA) approved community college program in the Chicago Southland area, providing graduates a significant advantage in the workforce. Students have the opportunity to learn directly from professionals currently working as lawyers or judges. With flexibility at the forefront, daytime and evening courses are offered both in-person and online. Graduates of SSC’s program gain knowledge to work in a variety of legal environments, as well as the credentials to transfer to four-year schools and universities.

Details regarding all upcoming open houses at SSC are accessible at: www.ssc.edu/info.

Surplus Property Auction

South Suburban College is interested in auctioning surplus property per attached specifications and criteria:

AUCTION CONDITIONS

  1. Only sealed bids will be accepted. Bid must be clearly marked as a bid. Envelopes must be marked as a bid for Surplus Property.
  2. The College reserves the right to remove any item from the surplus list prior to 10:30 A.M. December 07, 2021.
  3. All items should be bid “each.” Individuals may bid for one or more of multiple items.
  4. All items should be bid by the item number and description.
  5. In case of a tie, a lottery will be held at the time of opening.

PURCHASING CONDITIONS

  1. Bids must be delivered to South Suburban College, 15800 S. State Street, South Holland, Illinois 60473, room 2115 no later than December 7, 2021 at 10:30 A.M. The bid opening will be held at that time in the President’s Conference Room.
  2. All surplus property is sold where is, as is, and with no written or implied warranties.
  3. Payment must be made by cash, check or money order by December 14, 2021. If payment is not made, the item may be offered to the next highest bidder. All items must be removed at the time of payment.
  4. The successful bidder must provide any and all equipment and personnel necessary to remove their items.

INSPECTION

All items will be available for your inspection, November 30, 2021 through December 2, 2021 between the hours of 9 AM and 1 PM, by appointment only. Please contact Jane Kawanna, (708) 210-5757 in order to make an appointment.

COVID-19

Please be advised the South Suburban College adheres to all state mandates relating to Covid-19 safety protocols. Properly worn masks and social distancing are required in all areas of South Suburban College. Temperature checks will be taken upon entering the building. Please enter the building via the front entrance or at the Campus Police entrance.

QUESTIONS

If you have any questions regarding the auction procedures, call Jane Kawanna, (708) 210-5757.

Lady Bulldogs Earn First Win at National Tournament with Goal-Focused Determination

SOUTH HOLLAND, IL – First game jitters were not a problem for the South Suburban College (SSC) Women’s Soccer Team. They won their opening game of pool play in the National Junior College Athletic Association (NJCAA) Division II National Championship Tournament. The Lady Bulldogs defeated the Sea Devils of Cape Fear Community College (Wilmington, NC) 4-2 on Tuesday, November 16, 2021.

The Sea Devils scored the first goal of the game at the 8-minute mark. Nyah Bejarano (Blue Island, IL) set-up Stephanie Mendoza (Blue Island, IL) to tie the game 1-1 at the 22-minute mark. Seven minutes later, SSC’s Priscilla Sotelo (Chicago, IL) assisted Amaris Gonzalez (Lansing, IL) for goal number two. Shortly before halftime, Gonzalez kicked her second goal for the Lady Bulldogs, giving them a 3-1 lead.

Each team scored one goal in the second half of the game. Hannah Miller of Cape Fear Community College lifted a shot on goal just over the outstretched arms of Lady Bulldogs goalkeeper Ruby Rosalas (Chicago, IL) to cut SSC’s lead to one. The match saw tireless play from both teams the remainder of the game until Gonzalez broke free of the Sea Devils defense to secure her third goal of the game. Rosales is also to be commended for her goaltending with seven saves for the Lady Bulldogs.

The SSC Women’s Soccer Team (#8 seed) will continue to compete in “Pool A”. Their next game is against Heartland Community College (#1 seed) on Wednesday, November 17 at 11 a.m. The winner of this game will advance to the semi-final, scheduled for Friday, November 19. The National Championship Game will follow on Saturday, November 20.

For more information, contact Head Coach Tony Gonzàlez at jgonzalez@ssc.edu or Athletic Director Steve Ruzich at sruzich@ssc.edu. SSC is located at 15800 South State Street, South Holland, Illinois.
 

Team photo of the Women's Soccer team taken in Kansas
PICTURED – The South Suburban College Women’s Soccer Team wins opening game of the NJCAA Division II National Championship Tournament.

Lady Bulldogs Kick It into High Gear with First National Tournament Appearance and All-Region Team Honorees

SOUTH HOLLAND, IL – For the first time in school history, the South Suburban College (SSC) Women’s Soccer Team has qualified to play in the National Junior College Athletic Association (NJCAA) Division II National Tournament. This achievement was determined after their Region-IV Championship Game against Waubonsee Community College on November 6, 2021. After the Lady Bulldogs faced a hard-fought 1-0 loss, they ended their season with a record of 15-3, and earned an at-large bid for tournament play.

“It’s been an honor to be able to coach this dedicated group and watch them progress during their time at South Suburban,” said Head Coach Jose “Tony” Gonzàlez.

Individual accolades have been awarded to the Region-IV Women’s Soccer All-Region Team. Amaris Gonzalez (Lansing, IL) and Priscilla Sotelo (Chicago, IL) have been named to the first team. Nyah Bejarano (Blue Island, IL) and Valeria Nunez (Chicago Heights, IL) have been named to the second team. These achievements are determined based on outstanding field play. Gonzalez and Sotelo were the second and fourth leading scorers in the nation for NJCAA Division II, with 34 and 28 goals respectively.

The Lady Bulldogs have been placed into “Pool A” as the eighth seed in the NJCAA National Tournament to be held in Wichita, Kansas. They will play Cape Fear Community College (twelve seed) on Tuesday, November 16 at 11 a.m. Following this game, they will play Heartland Community College (one seed) on Wednesday, November 17 at 11 a.m. The winner from this pool will advance to play in the semi-final game of the tournament on Friday, November 19. The National Championship Game will follow on Saturday, November 20.

For more information, contact Head Coach Tony Gonzàlez at jgonzalez@ssc.edu or Athletic Director Steve Ruzich at sruzich@ssc.edu. SSC is located at 15800 South State Street, South Holland, Illinois.
 

2021 SSC Women's Soccer Team photo
The 15-3 South Suburban College Women’s Soccer Team has earned their first ever NJCAA Division II National Tournament bid.

South Suburban College to Provide Additional Rapid Testing at its Oak Forest Center

COVID-19 vaccine boosters are now available at SSC’s Main Campus in South Holland.

 
SOUTH HOLLAND, IL – South Suburban College is providing additional free rapid COVID-19 testing at its Oak Forest Center through Loop Medical Center. The additional days and times are Tuesdays from 3 – 7 p.m. and Wednesdays from 7 – 11 a.m., and will include options for both saliva and nasal swabs. The new days are in addition to the SHIELD Illinois rapid testing occurring on Mondays from 7 – 9 a.m. Testing results are available within 24 hours. To schedule a test on Tuesdays and Wednesdays, please visit https://bit.ly/ssctest. To schedule a test on Mondays with SHIELD, create an account through Portal.shieldillinois.com using agency code: df5brbrj.

SSC’s Main Campus is now providing Moderna, Pfizer and Johnson & Johnson vaccination and booster options, along with COVID-19 testing at its free drive-thru site in South Holland. Both the COVID-19 vaccination and testing are also now open four days a week on Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays, and Saturdays from 8 a.m. – 4 p.m. The drive-thru set up is located within the Northwest Parking Lot at 15800 South State Street, South Holland, Illinois. While no appointment is necessary, individuals seeking testing may save time by pre-registering online from https://rebrand.ly/idph.

Pursuant to Executive Order #87 signed by Governor J.B. Pritzker on August 26, 2021, all employees, students and regular visitors of South Suburban College are required to either be fully vaccinated for COVID-19 or be subject to at least weekly COVID-19 testing. SSC has implemented the CLEARED4 compliance system to enforce the mandate on campus by validating an individual’s vaccination status with a Blue Pass or negative test with a Green Pass via smart device. More information is available online from ssc.edu/covid19. Self-registration is also available for regular campus visitors from www.ssc.edu/c19vax.

Amongst the Flora, An Exhibition of Photographs by Lawrence Trantham 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 of photographs entitled Amongst the Flora, by Lawrence Trantham in the Photo Four Gallery at South Suburban College from October 25th though November 19th with a Virtual Artist Talk on November 3rd from 12–1 p.m. via Zoom: https://bit.ly/3b3KWw8

Lawrence Trantham a 29-year-old photographer who has lived in the city of Chicago for his entire life. He has been in love with photography for as long as he can remember. “It’s something about how you can capture the beauty of things and share it with the world, especially with weddings and portraits,” said Trantham. “I believe I have the innate ability to draw out the real personality of people. I like to find out people’s little quirks and capture them at the moment, especially during weddings, when everything is so stressful; I want them to enjoy their day to the fullest.”

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.

Floral Paradise
“Floral Paradise” by Lawrence Trantham

South Suburban College Seeks Adult Volunteer Literacy Tutors and Offers Free Services

SOUTH HOLLAND, IL–South Suburban College is 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 November 16th & November 18th from 3:30 pm until 5:00 pm and November 30th & December 2nd from 3:30 pm until 5:00 pm. Come join our Literacy Program and help us start this upcoming semester off right!! The tutor training is a 12-hour program that culminates with literacy training certification. We also offer online training as well. Once certified, the tutors will go out to visit their adult learners at locations in 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 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; Markham Public Library and Midlothian Public Library. Tutoring is scheduled by the availability of the tutors and the learners, and the availability of space and hours of the tutoring sites.

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. 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).

Tutors will 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. 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.

To register for the upcoming Volunteer Tutor Training classes or if you know someone who could benefit from tutoring services, please contact Dianne Needles, Adult Literacy Grants Manager, at (708) 596-2000, ext. 2558, or email dneedles@ssc.edu. South Suburban College is located at 15800 S. State St., South Holland, Illinois.

Register Soon for Free High School Equivalency & English as a Second Language Courses at South Suburban College in the New Year

SOUTH HOLLAND, IL–South Suburban College’s Adult Education Department is offering a wide range of opportunities for adults to build the basic skills required for success in the New Year. 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 2411, or online at ssc.edu/adult-continuing-education. The registration schedule for spring classes – beginning January 18, 2022 – is as follows:

High School Equivalency Registration Days
November 3, 4, 8, 10, 16, 18, 29, and December 1st
10:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. at Main Campus Room L233

English as a Second Language Registration Days
November 3, 4, 8, 10, 16, 18, 29, and December 1st
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.

South Suburban College a Regional Leader for Economic Development and Job Creation According to New Study

Illinois Community College system accounts for $3.5 billion in economic output and more than 43,000 jobs throughout state.

 
SOUTH HOLLAND, IL – South Suburban College (SSC) continues to help drive the south suburban area economy and train a skilled workforce for critical industries throughout Illinois, according to a new statewide report analyzing the value of the Illinois community college system. Other data including successful student outcomes were proven through the work of Northern Illinois University’s (NIU) Center for Governmental Studies (CGS), contracted by the Illinois Community College Board (ICCB) from 2020-21.

Illinois community colleges claim a unique piece of their shared mission to support local workforce and economic development through employer and business engagement. SSC demonstrated its success in this endeavor in 2020, in part by interacting with 45 unique employers. Collaboration ranged from curriculum and apprenticeship development and review, contract training, internships, and professional development to job placement for graduating students. Further economic impact is demonstrated in raw numbers produced by SSC during fiscal year 2020:

  • $31.7 million in operating expenditures
  • $14.4 million in wages and benefits among SSC employees living in the region
  • Approximately 427 jobs in SSC District #510 attributed to college operations associated with $59.4 million in economic output

These direct impacts rippled through the economy creating additional jobs, payrolls, and other economic activity.

“I believe our country has given greater voice in recent years to the significant impact community colleges have educationally and culturally, but often times the least understood and least measured effect is economically,” said Frank M. Zuccarelli, Chairman of the SSC Board of Trustees. “The detailed research that was conducted through this study revealed some amazing numbers relating to the positive economic value of community colleges in Illinois, and specifically here in the south suburban region.”

The report not only evaluates Illinois community colleges’ ability to meet the needs of business and industry, but also student outcomes and students’ return on investment. South Suburban College students aged 20 to 29 that completed a two-year program that was not focused on transfer to a 4-year institution are estimated to total nearly $525,000 in average increased lifetime earnings (compared to someone not attending community college). The study estimated this return on investment was 23.5%.

According to ICCB data, in recent years more than 70% of completers across all demographics of long-term certificate programs or Associate in Applied Science programs at South Suburban College are employed in career jobs within a year of graduation. Career job employment rates also typically improve for SSC completers over time. Among those who completed programs in 2009, 86.6% were employed one year after graduating, and 87.3% were employed in career jobs after 10 years.

“The study confirms what we already know to be true of community colleges – they are an accessible, attainable opportunity to change your life,” said Dr. Lynette Stokes, President of South Suburban College. “The data demonstrates this value everywhere, including within disadvantaged communities. By changing lives community colleges have the power to change communities.”

Statewide, the Illinois Community College System and ICCB are focused on creating, supporting, and expanding workforce training opportunities equitably in high-need communities. In 2019, Illinois started the Workforce Equity Initiative (WEI) program, a grant program designed to increase workforce opportunities for African Americans which are severely underrepresented among Career and Technical Education (CTE) programs. Over the last two years, the WEI program has granted nearly $40 million to address education and unemployment gaps in the African American and other minority communities throughout Illinois. More information about WEI at South Suburban College can be accessed online from www.ssc.edu/wei.

“It is clear that community colleges remain a solid return on investment for local communities and the students that use them,” said ICCB executive director, Dr. Brian Durham. “Our system plays a vital role in meeting the needs of Illinois’ workforce by providing quality training and education and gives students a greater opportunity to earn higher wages in countless industries throughout the state.”

When examining earnings one year prior to completion compared to three years after completion, African American student earnings increased 47 percent while Latinx students increased their earnings by 57 percent.

To review the full study, please visit https://bit.ly/iccbEIS.
 

The exterior of South Suburban College in South Holland, IL
Photo by Guy Rhodes

Rine Boyer’s “What Just Happened?” Exhibit Coming to South Suburban College’s Thiel Gallery

SOUTH HOLLAND, IL–The Art & Design Department of South Suburban College is pleased to present an exhibition entitled “What Just Happened?” by figurative artist Rine Boyer. The exhibition will be on display in the Dorothea Thiel Gallery from October 21 – November 7, 2021.

During what felt like the depths of the pandemic – when everything in Chicago was dark, cold, and snowy – Boyer decided to try and capture it mostly for her own sanity. Her life, like many others, had become monotonous. Each day she did the same things, saw the same group of people, and inhabited the same spaces, for months on end. Everyone aside from a few family members and friends seemed to evaporate into an idea of a person only to be seen digitally or in my mind’s eye. Captured on plexiglass, a material found in any space essential enough to stay open, figures based on protesters vanish and reappear into each other as if they are figments of the imagination. Sometimes a shadowy outline of a nearby figure is reflected and other times it disappears into incomprehensible lines. Behind these standing figures are portraits of close friends and family and animated scenes of life in isolation.

Rine Boyer is a Chicago-based painter and artist-in-residence of Zhou B Art Center. She has exhibited her work widely and has been the subject of many international articles. Boyer’s work is rich with nuance and layers of symbolism; the vivid colors she utilizes point towards things that lay beyond the physical while the repetition of subtle shapes pay homage to the individual and collective.

The Dorothea Thiel Gallery is located on the fourth floor and is open Monday through Thursday from 9:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. The galleries are closed on Fridays, 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 jtassin@ssc.edu or call (708) 596-2000, ext. 2316.

Portrait of Sumayya with Mask, Acrylic on Canvas, 2021

Swing Into Spring Now at South Suburban College to Benefit from Tuition Assistance Programs and Flexible Scheduling

SOUTH HOLLAND, IL–South Suburban College (SSC) continues its efforts to provide flexibility to college degree seekers interrupted by the pandemic with a wide range of online and in-person class options, as well as significant tuition and technology supports. Spring Registration is now in progress online from ssc.edu. The 2021 Spring Semester begins the week of Monday, January 10, 2022. All current and prospective students are encouraged to register early to secure grant opportunities, their preferred course schedule and mode of classes delivery.

The New Year is an excellent opportunity for students to take a giant step in their success by customizing a class schedule at high quality and supportive institution. New SSC students should get started with the Online Application from ssc.edu. Once the application process is complete, new students will receive an SSC email account and a Self Service Username & Password via email which will allow access to student information and class registration.

SSC previously announced the free laptop application and other technical supports such as hotspots to assist students with the virtual learning environment. Applications are accepted from www.ssc.edu/technology-relief-fund/. Previous students may take advantage of the SSC Student Debt Relief Fund from www.ssc.edu/student-debt-relief-fund. To ask for help, access the LIVE CHAT button from ssc.edu, call (708) 210-5718 or email registration&records@ssc.edu.

Additionally, SSC’s Workforce Equity Initiative (WEI) grant provides wrap-around services including comprehensive financial assistance and academic support to participating students within a variety of program areas providing stackable credentials. These programs will be highlighted at the upcoming Open Houses including Nursing, Patient Care Technician (PCT), Basic Nursing Assistance Training Program (BNATP), Community Healthcare Worker (CHW), Certified Production Technician (CPT), Solar Photovoltaic Installer, Forklift Operator, and the brand-new Barber College at the college’s Main Campus. For more information about the WEI programs at SSC, please call (708) 596-2000, ext. 2413, email workforceequity@ssc.edu or visit www.ssc.edu/wei.

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.

South Suburban College is Providing Wide Range of Options to its Community for Illinois’ Vax or Test Mandate

SOUTH HOLLAND, IL – South Suburban College is now providing Moderna, Pfizer and Johnson & Johnson vaccination options, along with COVID-19 testing at its free drive-thru site in South Holland. Both the COVID-19 vaccination and testing are also now open four days a week on Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays, and Saturdays from 8 a.m. – 4 p.m. The drive-thru set up is located within the Northwest Parking Lot at 15800 South State Street, South Holland, Illinois. While no appointment is necessary, individuals seeking testing may save time by pre-registering online from https://rebrand.ly/idph.

Pursuant to Executive Order #87 signed by Governor J.B. Pritzker on August 26, 2021, all employees, students and regular visitors of South Suburban College are required to either be fully vaccinated for COVID-19 or be subject to at least weekly COVID-19 testing. SSC has implemented the CLEARED4 compliance system to enforce the mandate on campus by validating an individual’s vaccination status with a Blue Pass or negative test with a Green Pass via smart device. More information is available online from ssc.edu/covid19. Self-registration is also available for regular campus visitors from www.ssc.edu/c19vax.

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 October at the Oak Forest Center. This two-day certification course covers the basic forklift driving skills needed to obtain a Forklift Operator Certification.

The cost for each course is $175.00 per person, or FREE for qualified applicants. The October sessions will be held as follows:

  • Saturday, October 2 & Saturday October 16, 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
  • Thursday, October 7 & Friday October 8, 5:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m.
  • Wednesday, October 20 & Thursday 21, 5:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m.
  • Tuesday, October 26 & Wednesday October 27, 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 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.

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.

For more information, please contact Gervaise Edwards at (708) 210-5723 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.

South Suburban College Announces Dr. Omar Sheriff to Lead Allied Health & Careers Programs into Historic Future

SOUTH HOLLAND, IL–South Suburban College (SSC) announces the hiring of Omar Sheriff, MD, to lead its 12 frontline healthcare programs into a period of significant strategic growth. Dr. Sheriff will report to the Vice President of Academic Services and be responsible for the educational welfare of students and the professional needs of staff within the division. He will also work collaboratively with the VP, program coordinators and faculty to continue to develop and promote programmatic growth and innovation.

Dr. Sheriff earned his MD from Central America Health Sciences University and his MBA in Health Care Management from Purdue University. Dr. Sheriff brings a wide range of experience through his 13-year career in clinical, instructional and leadership roles including Dean of Academic Affairs at Brown Mackie College in Indianapolis, IN, and Allied Health Program Chair at Kaplan College in Hammond, IN. He looks forward to working with the faculty and students in addition to providing leadership for the future advancement of healthcare education at the College.

For over 90 years South Suburban College has been preparing caring people to provide exceptional care – offering a wide range of Certificate and Associate Degree healthcare career pathways with graduates exceeding the national certification exam pass rates in all programs.
As the critical need for qualified health care professionals continues to grow, South Suburban College was awarded an historic $51 million capital improvement grant through the State of Illinois’ 2019 capital bill to build a 130,000 square foot, four-story state-of-the-art Allied Health & Nursing Center (AHNC). The proposed Center will provide cutting-edge technology and instructional space that will expand SSC’s capacity for its current programs by more than 260%, while launching four new healthcare programs for future students in Southland community.

South Suburban College is a community college located at 15800 S. State St., South Holland, Illinois. SSC serving 21 communities including parts of the Chicago Southland and northwest Indiana. SSC provides support services and leadership opportunities to its students in addition to a wide range of academic program options. For more information about SSC, please visit www.ssc.edu.

South Suburban College Providing Options to its Community Comply with State Vax or Test Mandate – UPDATED

SOUTH HOLLAND, IL – In response to Governor JB Pritzker and IDPH Director Dr. Ngozi Ezike’s announcement of a new COVID-19 vaccine requirement for higher education personnel and students, South Suburban College (SSC) has set a September 24th deadline for proof of vaccination via www.ssc.edu/c19vax. COVID-19 testing will become a weekly requirement for employees and students who do not comply.

SSC continues to provide both drive-thru COVID-19 testing and Johnson & Johnson vaccinations at no cost. The one dose Johnson & Johnson vaccine is available for individuals ages 18 years and older. Vaccination is available three days a week on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays from 8 a.m. – 4 p.m. and free testing is available the same days plus Saturday. The drive-thru set up at the College’s Main Campus is located within the Northwest parking lot at 15800 South State Street, South Holland, Illinois.

Beginning Monday, October 25th, the SHIELD Illinois rapid testing program at the Oak Forest Center (OFC) will only be available on Mondays from 7-9 a.m. Testing results are available within 24 hours. To schedule an appointment, a SHIELD Illinois account may be created through Portal.shieldillinois.com using agency code df5brbrj for this location. The OFC is conveniently located near I-57 at 16333 South Kilbourn Avenue, Oak Forest, Illinois.

Register Now for Non-Credit Classes at South Suburban College – UPDATED

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

With the wide variety of start dates, class times, course lengths and offerings, students have the flexibility of fitting school around a busy schedule. Some of the programs available include but are not limited to:

  • Food Service Sanitation
  • Introduction to Photography
  • DUI and the Law
  • Conversational Spanish I
  • Computer Viruses
  • Real Estate Principles

Classes are starting September 13th and later. For more information about SSC’s non-credit classes or to register, please contact the Office of Continuing Education at (708) 596-2000, ext. 2231, or visit www.ssc.edu. SSC is located at 15800 South State Street, South Holland, Illinois.

Register Now for South Suburban College’s Free High School Equivalency and English as a Second Language Classes in South Holland, Oak Forest or Online

SOUTH HOLLAND, IL–South Suburban College’s Adult Education Department offers a wide range of free opportunities for adults to build the basic skills required for success this fall. Registration and the required Placement Test for the free High School Equivalency (HSE) and English as a Second Language (ESL) programs are by appointment only on August 30 or September 1, 7, 8 and 9, at either 10 a.m. or 5 p.m. Prospective students should register for HSE at (708) 596-2000, ext. 2475 or 2411, or for ESL at ext. 2410, or ext. 2408 for Spanish. A mask must be worn at all times during the testing/registration process.

The HSE program will develop the skills required to pass the High School Equivalency Exams. Fall Semester HSE classes run from September 13 through December 9, 2021. They are conveniently offered in South Holland, Oak Forest and Online. Students interested in HSE can choose classes from General Studies, Math, Welding/ICAPS or CNA-Bridge/ICAPS. ESL classes begin September 19th in South Holland, Oak Forest and Online.

At the time of registration, all students will take a Placement Test and must provide the following items:

  • CURRENT STATE I.D. OR DRIVERS LICENSE INDICATING ILLINOIS RESIDENCE
  • UNDER AGE 18 – WITHDRAWAL FORM FROM THE HIGH SCHOOL OF CURRENT RESIDENCE
  • PROOF OF SOCIAL SECURITY NUMBER (HSE only)

Information provided will be kept confidential in accordance with the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act of 1974 (Public Law 93-380). Priority registration is given to continuing students who are making progress in their studies. Waiting lists will be taken as classes have a maximum number of students who can be served. (Indiana Residents cannot participate in this program.)

South Suburban College to offer One-Day Forklift Operator Training Course at Oak Forest Center

SOUTH HOLLAND, IL– South Suburban College’s Business & Career Institute is offering Forklift Operator Training in August and September at the Oak Forest Center. This one-day certification course covers the basic forklift driving skills needed to obtain a Forklift Operator Certification.

The cost for each course is $175.00 per person. The August session will be held from 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. on Saturday, August 21st. The September sessions will be held from 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. on Saturday, September 4th and Saturday, September 18th.

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.

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.

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.

HVAC Air Purification System

Titled, sealed bids will be received in the Office of Purchasing, Room 2115, at South Suburban College, 15800 S. State Street, South Holland, IL 60473, up to the hour of 10:30 a.m. on August 26, 2021 for the following work: HVAC AIR PURIFICATION SYSTEM for SOUTH SUBURBAN COLLEGE. Bids will be opened at that time, or shortly thereafter in the President’s Conference Room.

Work will be let under one prime contract, to the lowest responsible bidder. Plans and Specifications may be obtained on or after August 16, 2021, at the office of the Architect, PLANERA ARCHITECTS 18225 Morris Avenue, Homewood, Illinois, 60430. Contractors wishing to submit proposal are advised to contact the architect prior to picking up plan and specifications. Further, all questions regarding the Plans and Specifications should be provided to the architect prior to the Mandatory Pre-Bid Meeting. The architect may be contacted at 708-747-3600. ALL BIDDERS MUST BE PRE-QUALIFIED. If not pre-qualified, complete A.I.A. Document A-305 (Contractors Qualification Statement) for consideration before picking up Plans & Specifications.

A 10% Bid Bond will be required of all bidders. A 100% Performance Bond and a Labor/Material Bond will be required of the successful bidder, written by a Surety approved by the Owner. Each bid must be accompanied by a bid bond for an amount not less than ten percent (10%) of the total amount of the bid, as a guarantee that the bidder, if awarded the Contract, will furnish a satisfactory performance and payment bond, execute the Contract and proceed with the work. Upon failure to do so, the bidder shall forfeit the amount deposited as liquidated damages and no mistakes or errors on the part of the bidder shall excuse the bidder or entitle him to a return of the aforementioned amount.

A Mandatory Pre-Bid Meeting will be held on August 19, 2021, at 1:00 p.m. in the Mi-Jack Room, South Suburban College, 15800 South State Street, South Holland, Illinois, 60473. Bidders will examine the plans and specifications and the location in which said work is to be done and judge for themselves all the circumstances and surrounding conditions affecting the cost and nature of the work, and all bids will be presumed to be based on such examination, familiarity and judgment. Compliance with all requirements of the laws of the State of Illinois shall be mandatory. These requirements shall include, but are not limited to, payment of the prevailing wage including fringe benefits for labor on the work to be done, the provisions of all State of Illinois and federal laws concerning public works projects, the State of Illinois Human Rights Act, and the regulations of the Illinois Human Rights Commission.

The Board of Trustees, Community College District #510, South Holland, Illinois, reserves the right to accept or reject any or all bids and award the bid in the manner that best serves the interests of the Owner.
 
This bid is to be awarded on September 9, 2021.

South Suburban College Seeking Adult Volunteer Literacy Tutors

Adult Literacy Program to provide tutor training classes in September.

 
SOUTH HOLLAND, IL–South Suburban College (SSC) is 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 area 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 August 31st and September 2nd from 6 p.m. – 8 p.m., and September 7th and 9th from 6 p.m. – 8 p.m. SSC is seeking new volunteers to join its Literacy Program to assist students during the Fall Semester. The tutor training is a 12-hour program that culminates with literacy training certification. We also offer online training as well. Once certified, the tutors will go out to visit their adult learners at locations in 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 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; Markham Public Library and Midlothian Public Library. Tutoring is scheduled by the availability of the tutors and the learners, and the availability of space and hours of the tutoring sites.

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. 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).

Tutors will 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. 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.
To register for the upcoming volunteer tutor training or to inquire about adult literacy services, please contact Dianne Needles, Adult Literacy Grants Manager, at (708) 596-2000, ext. 2558, or email dneedles@ssc.edu. South Suburban College is located at 15800 S. State St., South Holland, Illinois.

South Suburban College to Host Virtual Open House for Paralegal and Criminal Justice Programs

SOUTH HOLLAND, IL–South Suburban College (SSC) is hosting a Virtual Open House on Monday, August 2nd at 6 p.m. for its Paralegal and Criminal Justice System. All of SSC’s Virtual Open House links are accessible from ssc.edu/info. Attendees can access the Open House via Zoom or call in to participate and become informed about exciting career pathways with significant expected employment growth.

SSC’s Paralegal/Legal Assistant Program provides a 60-hour Associate Degree track and a 39-hour Certificate – designed to prepare 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 program in the Chicago Southland and Northwest Indiana region, arming graduates with a significant advantage entering the workforce. Paralegal job opportunities are expected to grow more than 10% and the median annual salary is $53,000.

The College’s Criminal Justice System Program 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 and rewarding career choice with the 2020 annual median salary over $67,000 in the field.

For more information about the Paralegal or CJS 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.

Fall classes begin Monday, August 16, 2021, and class schedules, registration services and a new “live chat” with staff are all available online from ssc.edu. Future SSC students should get started at admissions.ssc.edu. Once the application process is complete, new students will receive an SSC email account and a Self-Service Username & Password via email which will allow access to student information and class registration. In addition to the live chat function at ssc.edu, prospective students may call (708) 210-5718.

South Suburban College Students Received Over $3,400,000 in New Aid

SOUTH HOLLAND, IL–It’s not too late to get registered and take advantage of a significant range of free resources at South Suburban College (SSC) this fall. In fact, returning to school or pursing one’s college dream for the first time is a “no-brainer,” according to college promotions.

“This is truly a unique time in our College history when most students literally are debt free, and in many cases plus direct financial assistance, and plus free laptops,” said Dr. Lynette Stokes, SSC President. “SSC has long provided comprehensive scholarship and tuition waiver packages to students, but this is much more and we want residents of our community to know they have an opportunity. We have worked really hard to secure and thoughtfully distribute multiple sources of funding to help our students manage this difficult year and be successful.”

Those additional funding sources available to students include CARES Act stimulus, several new grant initiatives, and Foundation-sponsored COVID-19 Impact Awards among others. In total, SSC has provided over $3,400,000 in tuition relief, personal checks and technology grants to students last fiscal year, and more is available.

Shanika Mack is a South Suburban College student who has made the best out of the challenges of the past year. “Losing my job forced me to step away and think about what’s important, like pursuing my bigger dreams,” said Mack, a 31-year old returning adult student who previously attended SSC immediately after graduating from Thornton High School. “The pandemic can take away my job but it can’t take away my education.”

Mack received a free laptop, free books, and will have her entire tuition balance waived at the end of the 2021 Summer Semester if she stays on track to receive a “C” or better. She is already enrolled for fall classes with plans to graduate with an Associate’s Degree in General Studies next spring. Mack hopes to pursue a Business Degree at Governor’s State University upon graduation.

According to SSC’s Business Office, 1,219 students have received $1,283,556 in tuition balances waived to date, and another 3,415 students received direct payments of $2,124,600 through the Higher Education Emergency Relief Fund (HEERF). An additional 141 students received $145,579 in debt relief and 415 students received $133,836 in technology – primarily laptops – through the CARES Act for the Governor’s Emergency Education Relief Fund (GEERF). The SSC Foundation awarded $66,221.17 in COVID-19 funding for tuition, books, technology, and living expenses in addition to its traditional annual scholarship awards. Most recently, SSC initiated a new Student Emergency Aid Program through the Educational Credit Management Corporation (ECMC) to provide financial support up to $500 per student for short-term, nonrecurring emergencies.

New South Suburban College Student Trustee, Dion Rubin, wants to encourage more students to come back to school. Rubin received a free laptop, hotspot and $950 in direct aid to date. “I have complete confidence in South Suburban College – the faculty have done an amazing job and I have felt extremely safe returning to campus.”

Rubin received his High School Equivalency (HSE) before pursuing his college education in the Fall 2020 Semester during the height of the pandemic. “My goal is to make the student experience the best it can be and to promote a positive educational culture. Positivity can do great things.”

Other opportunities for career program funding at SSC include the Workforce Equity Initiative (WEI) Grant, and the One Workforce Grant through the Calumet Area Industrial Commission (CAIC). The WEI grant provides wrap-around services including comprehensive financial assistance and academic support to participating students within a variety of program areas providing stackable credentials. Funding for the H-1B One Workforce Grant is provided by the US Department of Labor for tuition, fees and books in short-term advanced manufacturing programs with industry recognized credentials.

All of the funding, grant and programmatic information is available from ssc.edu. Fall classes will begin Monday, August 16, 2021, with the safety and flexibility of five modes of class delivery at SSC. Class schedules, registration services and a new “live chat” with staff are available at ssc.edu. Prospective students may also call (708) 210-5718 or email admissions@ssc.edu to get questions answered.

South Suburban College Announces 11 Academic All-Americans

SOUTH HOLLAND, IL– The South Suburban College (SSC) Athletic Program announces 11 student athletes placing on the Academic All-American Teams as recognized by the National Junior College Athletic Association (NJCAA):

4.0 GPA, First Team:

  • Terry Busse, Baseball, Valparaiso (IN) High School
  • Hailey Heffron, Softball, Joliet West High School
  • Alyssa Rosales, Women’s Soccer, Homewood Flossmoor
  • Janica Van Ghunt, Women’s Soccer, Munster (IN) High School

3.8 – 3.99 GPA, Second Team:

  • Joe Tor, Baseball
  • Cayla Turner, Women’s Basketball, Oak Forest High School
  • Taylor VanDommelen, Volleyball, Highland (IN) High School
  • Edgar Vargas, Men’s Soccer, Thornwood High School

3.6 – 3.79 GPA, Third Team:

  • Noah Gulley, Baseball, Bishop Gorman High School (NV)
  • Jacob Mucha (Baseball): Providence Catholic High School
  • Bruno Ortiz-Trochi (Men’s Soccer): Bremen High School

“I am so very proud of our Academic All-Americans this year,” said Steve Ruzich, SSC Athletic Director and Head Baseball Coach. “At South Suburban College, we pride ourselves on fostering student success both on and off the field. I would like to congratulate these student athletes on this great accomplishment.”

SSC offers women’s team sports of Basketball, Soccer, Volleyball, and Softball and men’s team sports of Basketball, Soccer, and Baseball. Countless Bulldog student-athletes have transferred to play their respective sports at hundreds of different NCAA Division I, Division II and Division III schools, in addition to NAIA institutions. More than 50 former Bulldogs have further advanced on to play professional and semi-pro sports.

For more information, visit www.ssc.edu/athletics. SSC is located at 15800 South State Street, South Holland, Illinois.

South Suburban College to Host Virtual Open Houses for Student Resources and Workforce Equity Initiative Programs July 27th and 28th

SOUTH HOLLAND, IL–It’s not too late to get registered and take advantage of a variety of free resources at South Suburban College (SSC) this fall. To help future students get started, the College is hosting a Student Resources Virtual Open House on July 28th at 6 p.m. and a Workforce Equity Initiative Virtual Open House on July 29th at 6 p.m.

SSC has provided over $3,000,000 in stimulus, tuition relief, and technology grants to students last fiscal year, and more is available. Additionally, the College continues its participation in the Workforce Equity Initiative (WEI) Grant. The WEI project is designed to create, support and expand short-term workforce training opportunities in high need areas within SSC District #510. Through new programs, expanded access, opportunity, and support services, the project is anticipated to yield impactful outcomes for individuals, families, communities, and local businesses. The WEI grant provides wrap-around services including comprehensive financial assistance and academic support to participating students within a variety of program areas providing stackable credentials. These programs will be highlighted at the July 29th Open House including Nursing, Patient Care Technician (PCT), Basic Nursing Assistance Training Program (BNATP), Community Healthcare Worker (CHW), Certified Production Technician (CPT), Solar Photovoltaic Installer, Forklift Operator, and the brand-new Barber College at the college’s Main Campus.

SSC is hosting these Virtual Open Houses to provide information to students who could benefit from funding, programs and services in the Fall 2021 Semester and beyond. All of the College’s open house links are accessible from www.ssc.edu/info.

Fall classes begin Monday, August 16, 2021, and class schedules, registration services and a new “live chat” with staff are all available online from ssc.edu. Future SSC students should get started at admissions.ssc.edu. Once the application process is complete, new students will receive an SSC email account and a Self-Service Username & Password via email which will allow access to student information and class registration. In addition to the live chat function at ssc.edu, prospective students may call (708) 210-5718. For more information about the WEI programs at SSC, please call (708) 596-2000, ext. 2413, or email workforceequity@ssc.edu.

South Suburban College Offering Cannabis Dispensary Operations Certificate Program this Fall

SOUTH HOLLAND, IL–South Suburban College will be offering a Cannabis Dispensary Operations Certificate Program starting in the Fall 2021 Semester. Illinois and many other states have made changes on the legality of Cannabis use. These changes have allowed for a developing industry of legal Cannabis companies to operate in Illinois, which allows for new jobs and business opportunities. This economic development is expected to continue to grow for many years.
The new program will assist people to successfully enter this new economic niche. The 18-credit hour (two-semester Certificate) will allow graduates to create new businesses and market themselves to existing businesses.

The first class, Introduction to Cannabis 101, is an 8-week online class that does not require a textbook. The course begins with the biology of the Cannabis plant and continues to cultural, historical, and medical uses of Cannabis. You don’t need to be in the program to take this fun and informative class.

First Semester Credits include: CNB 101 Introduction to Cannabis, CNB 102 Dispensary Operations, BUS 108 Introduction to Business, MIS 101 Computer Literacy & Applications, and CNB 103 Cannabis Law.

Semester Two Credits include: ACC 130 Computerized Accounting and CNB 110 Science of Cannabis (Biology and Pharmacology).

For questions, please call (708) 210-5706 or email ahelwig@ssc.edu. Fall Classes begin Monday, August 16, 2021, and class schedules, registration services and a new “live chat” with staff are all available online from ssc.edu. Future SSC students should get started at admissions.ssc.edu.

Auditions Extended for Bleacher Bums through South Suburban College PAC Rats Theatre Company

SOUTH HOLLAND, IL– The PAC Rats Theatre Company of South Suburban College will extend open auditions for the comedy Bleacher Bums. Additional auditions will take place on July 21, 22, 28 and 29, 2021, beginning at 7:00 p.m. Readings will be held in the Kindig Performing Arts Center on the main campus at 15800 S. State Street in South Holland, Illinois.

In the bleachers at Chicago’s Wrigley Field, die-hard Cub 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, a nerd, and a little kid.

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

Auditions are open to all community members as well as SSC students. Appointments and prepared audition materials are not necessary. Auditioners will read from scenes, which will be available at the time of auditions. Be prepared to list all conflicts with the rehearsal schedule.

“South Suburban College is still concerned for the safety of our students, staff and community members,” said Ellie Shunko, the manager of the Kindig Performing Arts Center. “As such, auditionees will need to enter the building at the Atrium entrance for a temperature check. Masks will be required when not on stage.”

Signs will be posted pointing the way from the Atrium entrance, which is a short walk away.

In addition to acting talent, the PAC Rats are also seeking volunteers who want to try their hands 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 sets and props.”

For character descriptions, rehearsal schedule and more information, visit the Kindig Performing Arts Center’s website at http://learn.ssc.edu/theatre/ or email ssctheatre@ssc.edu.

Open Auditions on July 14th and 15th for Bleacher Bums through South Suburban College PAC Rats Theatre Company

SOUTH HOLLAND, IL– The PAC Rats Theatre Company of South Suburban College will hold open auditions for the comedy Bleacher Bums on July 14th and 15th, beginning at 7:00 p.m. Readings will be held in the Kindig Performing Arts Center on the main campus at 15800 S. State Street in South Holland, Illinois.

In the bleachers at Chicago’s Wrigley Field, die-hard Cub 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, a nerd, and a little kid.

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

Auditions are open to all community members as well as SSC students. Appointments and prepared audition materials are not necessary. Auditioners will read from scenes, which will be available at the time of auditions. Be prepared to list all conflicts with the rehearsal schedule.

“South Suburban College is still concerned for the safety of our students, staff and community members.” said Ellie Shunko, the manager of the Kindig Performing Arts Center. “As such, auditionees will need to enter the building at the Atrium entrance for a temperature check. Masks will be required when not on stage.” Signs will be posted pointing the way from the Atrium entrance, which is a short walk away.

In addition to acting talent, the PAC Rats are also seeking volunteers who want to try their hands 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 sets and props.”

For character descriptions, rehearsal schedule and more information, visit the Kindig Performing Arts Center’s website at http://learn.ssc.edu/theatre/ or email ssctheatre@ssc.edu.

South Suburban College Drive-Thru Testing Site Now Providing Johnson & Johnson Vaccinations

SOUTH HOLLAND, IL – The South Suburban College (SSC) drive-thru COVID-19 testing site is now offering Johnson & Johnson vaccinations. The one dose Johnson & Johnson vaccine is available for individuals ages 18 years and older. Vaccination is available three days a week on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays from 8 a.m. – 4 p.m. and testing is available the same days plus Saturday. No appointment is necessary for the drive-thru set up at the College’s Main Campus northwest parking lot at 15800 South State Street, South Holland, Illinois.

SSC also recently added a second COVID-19 testing site at its Oak Forest Center (OFC) to provide free testing through the SHIELD Illinois program. The OFC-SHIELD testing site is initially limited to two days a week on Mondays and Wednesdays from 11:00 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. Testing results are available within 24 hours. If demand increases, dates and times will be expanded. To schedule an appointment, a SHIELD Illinois account must be created through Portal.shieldillinois.com using agency code: df5brbrj

The Oak Forest Center is located at 16333 South Kilbourn Avenue, Oak Forest, Illinois.

South Suburban College Seeks Dean of Allied Health & Careers to Lead Frontline Healthcare Programs into Historic Future

SOUTH HOLLAND, IL–South Suburban College (SSC) is seeking a new Dean of Allied Health & Career Programs to lead its 12 frontline healthcare programs into a period of significant strategic growth. The Dean will report to the Vice President of Academic Services and be responsible for the educational welfare of students and the professional needs of staff within the division. The Dean will work collaboratively with the Vice President, program coordinators and faculty to promote programmatic advancement and innovation. The Dean has the administrative oversight and authority to manage decisions on matters related the division: plan, organize, administer, develop, and evaluate the programs; provide leadership for faculty and staff in offering quality educational services for college students, and supervise and evaluate the performances of assigned personnel.

For over 90 years South Suburban College has been preparing caring people to provide exceptional care – offering a wide range of Certificate and Associate Degree healthcare career pathways with graduates exceeding the national certification exam pass rates in all programs.
As the critical need for qualified health care professionals continues to grow, South Suburban College was awarded a historic $51 million capital improvement grant through the State of Illinois’ 2019 capital bill to build a 130,000 square foot, four-story state-of-the-art Allied Health & Nursing Center (AHNC). The proposed Center will provide cutting-edge technology and instructional space that will expand SSC’s capacity for its current programs by more that 260%, while launching four new healthcare programs for future students in Southland community.

For more information about the role of the Dean of Allied Health & Career Programs, please contact Dr. Tasha Williams, Vice President of Academic Services at twilliams@ssc.edu. Applicants must submit letter of application, resume, and transcripts to resumebank@ssc.edu or to the Office of Human Resources, Room 1245.

South Suburban College is a community college located at 15800 S. State St., South Holland, Illinois. SSC serving 21 communities including parts of the Chicago Southland and northwest Indiana. SSC provides support services and leadership opportunities to its students in addition to a wide range of academic program options. For more information about SSC, please visit www.ssc.edu.

Barber College Provides New Opportunities for Southland Residents

SOUTH HOLLAND, IL –South Suburban College (SSC) is offering a new and unique program to residents of Community College District 510 – Barbering. The first cohort of students recently completed their initial semester within the Barber College, a brand new state-of-the-art, fully equipped facility on the first floor of the college’s Main Campus in South Holland. The Barber Shop is also now open for appointments during summer class instruction Mondays through Thursdays from 9 a.m. – 3 p.m.

The Barbering curriculum is a 17-month credit program leading to professional certification. SSC is offering a 41-hour Barber Technician (BT) Certificate and a 60-hour Associate of Applied Science Degree in Barbering track for students seeking a college degree as a part of the program. The BT Certificate is a hands-on learning experience that leads to quick employment. Both tracks will include preparation and testing for National Barbering Written Licensing Examination, which is essential to applying for licensure in Illinois. The program is unique in more ways than its curriculum.

“South Suburban College’s Barbering Program was the first active public Barber School in the state, and is now just one of two,” said Matt Beasland, Dean of Adult & Continuing Education and administrator over the Barber College. “It will provide our constituents with a much more affordable career credential leading to excellent earning and entrepreneurship potential.”

The SSC Board of Trustees and Chairman Frank M. Zuccarelli first announced the establishment of the program in December of 2019. The College subsequently received full approval from the Illinois Community College Board (ICCB) this year as well as its licensure from the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation.

All books, supplies, and materials required to complete the program are included, and tuition may also be covered. The SSC Barbering program was established in part by a Workforce Equity Initiative (WEI) grant the college received through the Illinois Community College Board which included funding for several new in-demand programs. The WEI project is designed to create, support and expand short-term workforce training opportunities in high need areas within SSC District #510. Through expanded access, opportunity, and support services, the project is anticipated to yield impactful outcomes for individuals, families, communities, local businesses.

According to BLS data, the average salary for a Barber in Illinois is $42,930, or $20.64 per hour with an increase in demand by 10.8% locally and 13% nationally over the next 10 years. In the Southland area, there are currently 286 new job openings for barbers.

For more information about Barber School and the WEI programs at SSC, please call (708) 596-2000, ext. 2413, email workforceequity@ssc.edu or visit www.ssc.edu/wei.

Free Highway Construction Careers Training Program Coming to South Suburban College’s Oak Forest Center in September

OAK FOREST, IL–South Suburban College is preparing for its next session of the popular free Highway Construction Careers Training Program (HCCTP) this fall. Orientation and Assessment Testing will be August 24-26, 2021, at the college’s Oak Forest Center, with the program set to begin on September 13th Instructional methods incorporate an outdoor classroom, social distancing and personal protective equipment.

SSC has offered HCCTP since 2014 with hundreds of students completing the 12-week specialized training program at a 70% completion rate. HCCTP was originally implemented to increase the number of minorities, women, and disadvantaged individuals working on IDOT highway construction projects.

The training consists of an intensive 12-week program to learn the skills necessary for acceptance into the highway construction trades and gives the opportunity for a career with high wage potential. Construction will always be needed for new buildings, roads, bridges, and other structures. Some of the more skilled construction careers such as engineer require higher education while others such as cement masonry can be learned as an on-the-job apprentice.

Career opportunities for program completers include: Cement Mason, Electrician, Pipefitter, Carpenter, Laborer and Equipment Operator, and more. Requirements are a valid driver’s license, 18 years or older, High School diploma/GED, and passing a drug test (including THC).

Orientation and assessment testing will be held at the Oak Forest Center located at 16333 South Kilbourn Avenue, Oak Forest, Illinois. All candidates must have a valid driver’s license with them to attend orientation. To register please visit www.ssc.edu/hcctp or call (708) 596-2000, ext. 3219.

Cook County Closes South Suburban College Vaccination Site

SSC continues COVID-19 testing in South Holland and rapid testing in Oak Forest.

SOUTH HOLLAND, IL – Cook County Health (CCH) announced the closing of its mass vaccination site at South Suburban College (SSC) on May 29th. CCH President Toni Preckwinkle, SSC President Dr. Lynette Stokes and Chairman Frank M. Zuccarelli were among the dignitaries who were present for a “clap-out” ceremony to voice their thanks and recognition for the countless individuals who worked to make the College vaccination site one of the County’s most efficient.

“Thank you to President Preckwinkle, Cook County Health, the National Guard, and our entire team here at South Suburban College for providing a significant service and sacrifice to protect our community,” said Chairman Zuccarelli. “Our success here is a demonstration of how the South Suburbs works together to accomplish our goals and lift each other up.”

Individuals who will need their second vaccination shots have been scheduled for the Matteson location, or another site closer to their residence. Other regional sites are also being closed due to a significant slowing of demand for vaccination. SSC’s site was delivering 1,200 vaccinations per day during its peak, and has provided more than 71,000 vaccinations in total.

Cook County Health is encouraging individuals who are seeking vaccination to walk-in at the Matteson location at 4647 Promenade Way, or visit myshotcookcounty.com for an updated list of vaccination sites.

South Suburban College’s drive-thru testing will continue four days a week on Monday, Wednesday, Friday, and Saturday, from 8 a.m. – 4 p.m. A second COVID-19 testing site recently opened at the College’s Oak Forest Center to provide free rapid testing through the SHIELD Illinois program. The OFC-SHIELD testing site is initially limited to two days a week on Mondays and Wednesdays from 11:00 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. If demand increases, dates and times will be expanded. To schedule an appointment, a SHIELD account must be created through Portal.shieldillinois.com using agency code: df5brbrj. SSC will be providing the SHIELD test at no cost, compared to $100 or more for a standard nasal swab test. Current notification time for the saliva test is less than 24 hours.

South Suburban College’s Oak Forest Center is located at 16333 South Kilbourn Avenue, Oak Forest, Illinois. The Main Campus is located at 15800 South State Street, South Holland, Illinois.
 
Photo of the SSV Mass Vaccination Site team and CCH officials

South Suburban College Holds Pinning Ceremony for Associate Degree Nursing Graduates

Program plans for growth, new LPN bridge curriculum in development.

SOUTH HOLLAND-South Suburban College honored its 2021 graduates of the College’s Associated Degree Nursing (ADN) Program with a special pinning ceremony last week. The graduates received their nursing pins from senior nursing faculty and class of 2021 advisor Naomi West. This year, 18 students successfully completed the ADN program. They will now prepare to sit for the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX) for Registered Nurses (RN) this summer.

The NCLEX is a standardized exam that each state board of nursing uses to determine whether or not a candidate is prepared for entry-level nursing practice. SSC’s graduates have enjoyed five consecutive years above the annual national average pass rates including multiple 100% passing graduated classes since the program reopened in 2013. SSC was recently named the #3 Ranked Nursing Program in Illinois by RegisteredNursing.org – a nursing advocacy organization. RegisteredNursing.org recently released its annual list of Best RN Programs.

“The graduates’ hard work and resilience was inspiring, especially with the challenges of the past year,” said Dr. Linda Brown-Aldridge, SSC’s Dean of Nursing. “I am very proud of the way our faculty and students remained focused and adapted well to a blended learning environment. I have no doubt the future is bright for the class of 2021 and they will provide excellence in nursing to our community for many years to come.”

Dr. Brown-Aldridge brings more than 30 years of experience to SSC’s Nursing Program, previously working in hospitals and schools in many roles including nursing, teaching, administration and serving as the Chief Nursing Officer at Provident Hospital. She will enter her third academic year as the Dean of Nursing this fall with more than 50 students in the program. Under her guidance, the program has undergone a major transformation, from revitalizing curriculum to providing innovative new student support systems and cutting-edge technology.

While the fall admission cycle is closed, new prospective students are encouraged to begin their prerequisites as early as this summer by creating a plan with an SSC Counselor. The College has plans for launching an LPN-RN bridge pathway this year and has made progress towards its state-of-the-art Allied Health & Nursing Center at its Main Campus in South Holland, Illinois.

The SSC Nursing Program is approved by the Illinois Department of Professional Regulations (IDFPR) and the college is accredited by the North Central Higher Learning Commission (HLC), both critical components to proper credentialing and certification upon graduation. It is a two-year Associate in Applied Science curriculum that provides learning experiences directed by faculty in local hospitals and health agencies to focus on the direct nursing care for patients of all ages.

For more information about Nursing and other Allied Health Programs at SSC, please visit ssc.edu/success or call (708) 596-2000, ext. 2260. Email CounselingCenterQuestions@ssc.edu for information about prerequisites and scheduling.
 

Photo of South Suburban College Associate Degree Nursing graduates receive their pins.South Suburban College Associate Degree Nursing graduates receive their pins.

Photo of South Suburban College Associate Degree Nursing graduates.South Suburban College Associate Degree Nursing graduates.

BCI Webinar: Building a Company Culture of Diversity, Equity & Inclusion

SOUTH HOLLAND, IL–The Business & Career Institute (BCI) of South Suburban College presents a four-part webinar entitled Building a Company Culture of Diversity, Equity & Inclusion starting Thursday, June 10th from 9:00 a.m. – 10:30 a.m., with subsequent dates of June 24th, July 8th and July 22nd.

Research shows that companies that embrace diversity and inclusion drive innovative and profitable results, improve brand reputation and increase employee retention. Where do businesses start in creating a DEI program or build a DEI culture? How is an initiative like this even approached? Facilitated by Diversity, Equity & Inclusion expert Coya Castro, this series of webinars is designed to start meaningful conversations that foster profound change, contributing significantly to bridging the gap between diversity divides.

Who should attend?

  • Business owners, administrators, C-suite executives
  • Members of BODs
  • Supervisors, managers, team leaders
  • Human resources professionals
  • Employees

ABOUT THE FACILITATOR: As an organizational development consultant, Castro’s ultimate goal is to help ensure the sustainability, health, and growth of organizations in order to maximize the support and empowerment of individuals, families, and communities. Her education includes a Bachelor of Arts in Human Development from the University of Chicago, three Master’s Degrees and several certificates from North Park University. Castro’s expertise includes a multidisciplinary approach to researching and applying best practices in executive/leadership coaching, strategic planning and management, change management, HR, operations, finance, and diversity, equity, and inclusion to improve employee and organizational performance. There are 1.5. PDCs available for SHRM-CP, SHRM-SCP and HRCI certification holders for each session attended.

The cost is $60 for all four sessions, or $20 per session. Once registered and paid, attendees will be sent a link for the webinar. To register, please email bci@ssc.edu or call (708) 596-2000 ext. 3251.

RESERVATIONS AND PAYMENT REQUIRED BY 5:00 P.M. ON MONDAY, JUNE 7th. For more details about the content of each workshop, please visit ssc.edu, call (708) 596-2000, ext. 3254 or email aglumac@ssc.edu.

South Suburban College Baseball Wins 13th Division I Regional Championship

SOUTH HOLLAND, IL – The South Suburban College Baseball Team captured their 13th Regional Championship on Friday following a 3-0 tournament sweep at Bulldog Stadium. The Bulldogs earned a 16-8 victory over Kishwaukee College, followed by 8-4 and 16-6 wins over Triton College. The Bulldogs improved their season record of 41-17 – the 12th time they have reached the 40-win mark in school history.

“I am very proud of the hard work and dedication this group of players and coaches have put in,” said Head Coach Steve Ruzich. “It’s been four years since our last title and it feels good to bring the Regional Championship back to SSC.”

In the 16-6 Championship win over Triton, the Bulldogs were led by a solid start from freshman RHP Tommy Windt, who gave up just 1 earned run in 7 innings to get the win. The Bulldogs struck early and often with a 5-run second inning capped by sophomore Logan Anderson’s bases clearing double. The rest of the offense was provided by Tommy Windt (3-4), Conner Tomasic (2-4), JJ Rivera (1-3 with 4 RBI) and Jake Mucha (1-3 with 3 RBI). South Suburban’s Conner Tomasic, RHP and IF, was named the Regional Tournament MVP. The sophomore was lights out on the mound with a win and 8 strikeouts while going 5-9 at the plate with 4 RBI for the Bulldogs.

The 2021 Baseball Team boasts one of the top offenses in school history with an overall team batting average of .342 and 558 total runs scored – both top 5 in the Bulldogs record book. The team also had a season high 15-game winning streak from March 10 – April 1.

“This has been the hardest working group of guys I have been around,” Assistant Baseball Coach Marty Joyce. “We pushed them extremely hard this offseason, and they showed up every day with a willingness to get better. That is all you can ask for as a coach.”

Next up for the Bulldogs is their District Tournament opener on Wednesday, May 19th versus Wabash Valley College at 12:00 noon. The District Tournament will consist of South Suburban, Wabash Valley, Indian Hills (IA), and Kaskaskia. The winner of the four-team tournament will advance to the NJCAA Division I World Series, located in Grand Junction, Colorado.

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

2021 NJCAA Division 1 Region 4 Baseball Champions
PICTURED: The South Suburban College Bulldogs Baseball Team earned the Regional Championship at Bulldog Stadium last Friday.

Athletic Uniforms and Supplies

Please quote us your net cost on the following: athletic uniforms and supplies. Sealed bids and samples will be received up to the hour of 1:00 PM on June 2, 2021, in room 1233. Bids will be opened at that time in the Board Room, 15800 South State Street, South Holland, Illinois. This is a public bid opening.

Bid is to be awarded on July 8, 2021.

South Suburban College’s Deshawndre Washington Named NJCAA Division II Men’s Basketball National Player of the Year

SOUTH HOLLAND, IL – For the second consecutive year, a South Suburban College Men’s Basketball player has been named National Player of the Year for the National Junior College Athletic Association (NJCAA) Division II. Sophomore guard Deshawndre Washington, of Morgan Park High School, added the highest accolade to his multiple awards garnered this season in leading the Bulldogs to a 20-6 record and 8th Place finish at the NJCAA Division II National Tournament.

“I am extremely happy for, and proud of Deshawndre,” said Coach Pigatti. “He carried this team on his back all season long – quite an accomplishment considering the impact of COVID-19 this year. He really matured and developed his overall game. Deshawndre has a bright future and great things are destined for him.”

Washington averaged 27 points, 13.5 rebounds, 4.1 assists, 2.8 blocks, and 2.7 steals per game during the 2021 campaign. He was also named to the NJCAA National Championship All-Tournament Team, Region IV Player-of-the Year, Midwest District Tournament MVP, and NJCAA 1st Team All-American. This is the second year in a row and now fourth player nine years to win National Player of the Year for the South Suburban program and Coach Pigatti.

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.

PICTURED ABOVE RIGHT: From the NJCAA Division II National Tournament: Bulldogs’ guard Deshawndre Washington was recently named NJCAA Division II National Player of the Year.

South Suburban College to Provide Rapid Testing in Oak Forest

Cook County Health expands walk-in service hours at SSC’s vaccination site.

OAK FOREST, IL – South Suburban College (SSC) is adding a second COVID-19 testing site at its Oak Forest Center (OFC) to provide free rapid testing through the SHIELD Illinois program. The OFC-SHIELD testing site will open on May 17th with availability initially limited to two days a week on Mondays and Wednesdays from 11:00 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. If demand increases, dates and times will be expanded. To schedule an appointment, a SHIELD account must be created through Portal.shieldillinois.com using agency code: df5brbrj

SHIELD Illinois is a screening testing program and infrastructure that deploys the University of Illinois’ innovative saliva test across the state. SSC will be providing the SHIELD test at no cost, compared to $100 or more for a standard nasal swab test. Current notification time for the saliva test is less than 24 hours, compared to a several-day turnaround time for most available tests. Through advantages in cost, speed and accuracy, the saliva tests can increase access to testing and control spread.

Additionally, Cook County Health is further expanding its walk-in vaccination hours at South Suburban College’s Main Campus Gymnasium in South Holland. Walk-in vaccinations will now be available Mondays through Fridays from 8 a.m. – 7 p.m. and Saturdays from 8 a.m. – 6 p.m. (last walk-in will be accepted at the posted closing times). No special residency, preregistration nor appointments are required. Anyone ages 16 and older (ages 16 and 17 with parent or guardian) may get vaccinated. Check ssc.edu for updates including the pending opening for ages 12-15 soon.

SSC’s drive-thru testing also continues four days a week on Monday, Wednesday, Friday, and Saturday, from 8 a.m. – 4 p.m. No appointment is necessary for the drive-thru tents set up at the College’s Main Campus northwest parking lot (not a rapid testing site).

South Suburban College’s Oak Forest Center is located at 16333 South Kilbourn Avenue, Oak Forest, Illinois. The Main Campus is located at 15800 South State Street, South Holland, Illinois.

South Suburban College to Offer Ultimate Flexibility for College Degree Seekers for the Fall Semester – UPDATE

SOUTH HOLLAND, IL–South Suburban College (SSC) continues its efforts to provide flexibility to college degree seekers interrupted by the pandemic with a wide range of course delivery options for students to choose for the Fall 2021 Semester. While summer registration continues with online classes and a limited in-person schedule, the College announced the beginning of fall registration with its High Five modes of class delivery:

  1. In-Person Classes: In-person classes will be run at less than 50% classroom capacity with social distancing.
  2. Online Classes: Online classes are delivered entirely through the D2L Virtual Classroom. Look for section numbers between 300-399. TBA indicates asynchronous instruction.
  3. Virtual Classes: Virtual refers to synchronous online instruction through the D2L Virtual Classroom. Days, and times will be listed in the schedule for required live sessions. On-campus labs maybe required.
  4. Simulcast Delivery: Dual delivery class selection of limited in-person seating or virtual using D2L. Students must choose their preferred delivery mode section when registering. Virtual students are expected to be available at the scheduled class and lab times.
  5. Blended Delivery: Blended is a hybrid requiring students to meet in-person as well as complete additional requirements independently. Look for section numbers between 200-299. Days, times, and room numbers will be listed in the schedule for required live sessions.

SSC’s Online Application, Registration Services and Class Schedules are easily accessible from ssc.edu. The 2021 Summer Semester begins the week of Monday, June 7th and Fall Semester begins Monday, August 16th. Students are encouraged to register early to secure their preferred mode of instruction and schedule.

SSC previously announced the free laptop application and other technical supports such as hotspots to assist students with the virtual learning environment. Applications are accepted from www.ssc.edu/technology-relief-fund/. Former students make take advantage of a new one-time SSC Student Debt Relief Fund from www.ssc.edu/student-debt-relief-fund.

In addition to utilizing a live chat button at ssc.edu, prospective students may seek assistance with registration at (708) 210-5718 or email to registration&records@ssc.edu

South Suburban College to Host Legal Studies Virtual Open Houses in May

SOUTH HOLLAND, IL– South Suburban College is hosting three Virtual Open Houses in May for its Legal Studies Programs of Court Reporting, Paralegal and Criminal Justice System. All of SSC’s Virtual Open House links are accessible from ssc.edu/info. Attendees can access the Open House via Zoom or call in to participate and become informed about exciting career pathways with significant expected employment growth.

SSC’s Court Reporting/Verbatim Technology Program is offering a FREE Court Reporting A to Z class this summer, starting June 7th. The Court Reporting Virtual Open House will take place on Thursday, May 6th at 7 p.m. Court reporting is an interesting, challenging profession which offers a wide-open job market, flexible work schedule, and excellent income potential. Sophisticated technology has created exciting work in broadcast captioning and stenointerpreting. Court reporters and captioners can earn well over $80,000 per year, according to Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) data.

SSC’s Paralegal/Legal Assistant Program is hosting its Virtual Open House on Tuesday, May 18th at 7 p.m. Information will be provided about the curriculum – a 60-hour Associate Degree program and a 39-hour Certificate – designed to prepare 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 program in the Chicago Southland and Northwest Indiana region, arming graduates with a significant advantage entering the workforce. Paralegal job opportunities are expected to grow more than 10% and the median annual salary is $53,000.

SSC’s Criminal Justice System Program is hosting its Virtual Open House on Monday, May 17th at 7 p.m. The CJS Program 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 and rewarding career choice with the 2020 annual median salary over $67,000 in the field.

For more information about the Court Reporting/Verbatim Technology Program, please contact LaTherese Cooke, Court Reporting Coordinator at (708) 596-2000, ext. 3217 or email LCooke@ssc.edu.

For more information about the Paralegal or CJS 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.

Summer and Fall Registration are open at SSC. Summer classes begin Monday, June 7th. Future SSC students can access more information, registration services, or Live Chat with SSC staff from ssc.edu.

South Suburban College to Host 2021 Virtual Commencement Ceremony with Keynote Dr. Ngozi Ezike

SOUTH HOLLAND, IL– South Suburban College (SSC) will host its 93rd Commencement Ceremony on Facebook Live Sunday, May 16, 2021 at 1:30 p.m. SSC is committed to honoring the accomplishments of its Class of 2021 through a virtual platform that keeps health and safety a priority and eliminates potential health risks. Student recognitions, cap and gowns and commencement photos, and messages from several key stakeholders will be included in the program. Dr. Ngozi Ezike, Director of the Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH), will serve as the College’s 2021 Commencement Speaker.

“We are honored to welcome Dr. Ngozi Ezike as our Keynote Speaker,” said Dr. Lynette Stokes, South Suburban College President. “Dr. Ezike is a trailblazer who has been a thoughtful leader for our State while navigating challenging issues. We look forward to her commencement message for our future leaders.”
Dr. Ngozi Ezike is the first Black woman appointed to lead the IDPH, a 143-year old state agency. Dr. Ezike is a board-certified internist and pediatrician who previously worked for the Cook County Department of Public Health (CCDPH), where she served for more than 15 years. She also was medical director at the Cook County Juvenile Temporary Detention Center. Dr. Ezike is a nationally recognized expert in the area of healthcare within the juvenile detention and justice systems. A graduate of Harvard University and the University of California, San Diego School of Medicine, she is a Certified Correctional Health Professional and Diplomate of both the American Board of Internal Medicine and the American Board of Pediatrics.

Frank M. Zuccarelli will also provide his annual words of congratulations and advice to his future colleagues. “As an alumnus of South Suburban College and Chairman of the Board for over 40 years, Commencement is still my favorite occasion of the year. While I miss the opportunity to present diplomas in person to our graduates, I am proud that we are once again able to provide a fun and proper send-off, virtually. The Class of 2021 certainly deserves it!”

This year, South Suburban College will award over 500 degrees and certificates to graduating students. SSC completed a successful virtual commencement in 2020 with over 20,000 views on social media. Follow SouthSuburbanCollege on Facebook, or visit ssc.edu for more information.

Forklift Operator Training Coming to Oak Forest Center – REVISED

SOUTH HOLLAND, IL– South Suburban College’s Business & Career Institute is offering Forklift Operator Training in April and May at the Oak Forest Center. This one-day certification course covers the basic forklift driving skills needed to obtain a Forklift Operator Certification.

The cost for each course is $175.00 per person. The April sessions will be held from 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. on Monday, April 26th and Friday, April 30th. The May sessions will be held from 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. on Thursday, May 27th and Friday, May 28th.

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.

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.

For more information, please contact Gervaise Edwards at (708) 225-6032 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.

South Suburban College Men’s Basketball Team Advances to National Tournament

SOUTH HOLLAND, IL– The South Suburban College Men’s Basketball Team defeated Bryant & Stratton College by a score of 82-71 on Friday to win the National Junior College Athletic Association (NJCAA) Region-IV Championship.

The Bulldogs were led by sophomore guard Deshawndre Washington’s 31 points and 13 rebounds. Sophomore forward Chance Love chipped in 21 points and 12 rebounds, and sophomore forward Tyronn Mosley scored 13 for the Bulldogs. Washington was named the Most Valuable Player of the Tournament, and Love was also named to the All-Tournament Team. Head Coach John Pigatti was named Region-IV Coach of the Year – marking the 11th time Pigatti has earned the award in 15 seasons at SSC.

“I am just very happy for the players – they have gone through so much this year,” said Coach Pigatti. “First, managing practice and games with COVID-19 restrictions. We were also proud to give up our home court so that SSC could provide the community with a mass vaccination site in our Gymnasium, but playing at a rec center was a big hurdle. I am happy this team has been rewarded with a Regional Championship. Now let’s see what happens at the National Championship Tournament!”

The Bulldogs now head to the NJCAA Division II National Championship Tournament which will be held April 20-24, 2021, with all game to be played at Danville Area Community College. The Bulldogs enter the tournament as the #3 seed and will play #14 Henry Ford (MI) College on Tuesday April 20th at 11 a.m. The Bulldogs qualified last year but were not able to participate due to the pandemic.

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.
 

Photo of Bulldogs Head Coach John Pigatti is presented the 2021 Coach of the Year Award by Harry McGinnis, Triton College Athletic Director.

Photo of Bulldogs forward Deshawndre Washington is presented the Regional Tournament MVP Award by Harry McGinnis, Triton College Athletic Director.

PICTURED: Bulldogs Head Coach John Pigatti (pictured at left) and Tournament MVP Deshawndre Washington (right) were presented awards by Harry McGinnis, Athletic Director for tournament host Triton College, after the Bulldogs earned the Regional Championship on Friday.

BCI to Host Virtual Workshop: Navigating the Nebulous Waters of HR Documentation

SOUTH HOLLAND, IL–The Business & Career Institute (BCI) of South Suburban College presents a virtual workshop entitled Navigating the Nebulous Waters of HR Documentation on Thursday, May 13th from 9:00 a.m. – 10:30 a.m.

Managing the stacks of HR paperwork can be a daunting task. There seems to be a form for everything, making it difficult to keep track of what is important and what can be placed on hold. In this webinar, attorney Sonia D. Coleman will walk you through the most integral documents needed for recording purposes. She will cover three distinct areas: The Hiring Process (job offer through onboarding), Separation from Employment (letters of termination to acknowledgement of back pay) and various Policies and Procedures (disciplinary action to sexual harassment). There are 1.5. PDCs available for SHRM-CP, SHRM-SCP and HRCI certification holders for each session.

This session is designed for veteran and new human resource professionals; supervisors, managers, team leaders; and anyone with designated HR responsibilities

Sonia D. Coleman, the founder and managing attorney of The Law Office of Sonia D. Coleman, P.C., is an accomplished attorney with experience in the counseling and representation of clients on a wide range of matters. Sonia is skilled in advising global clients on legal and business matters, including federal and state employment laws, such as: the American with Disabilities Act (ADA), the Age Discrimination in Employment Act (ADEA), the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA), the Family Medical Leave Act (FMLA), and Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964). Sonia earned her Bachelor of Science Degree in Psychology from Howard University and her Juris Doctorate from Loyola University of Chicago School of Law.

The cost to attend this virtual workshop is just $15. To register, please email bci@ssc.edu or call (708) 225-6055. RESERVATIONS AND PAYMENT ARE REQUIRED BY 5 PM ON TUESDAY, MAY 11th. For additional information, visit www.ssc.edu/bci, call (708) 596-2000, ext. 3254 or email aglumac@ssc.edu. Registrants will be emailed a link for access to the webinar.

Free Highway Construction Careers Training Program Coming to Oak Forest This Summer

OAK FOREST, IL–South Suburban College is preparing for the next session of its free Highway Construction Careers Training Program (HCCTP) this summer at the Oak Forest Center. Registration opens Monday, April 19th, while Orientation and Assessment Testing will take place from June 15-18th with the program set to begin on July 12th.

The Highway Construction Careers Training Program has been implemented to increase the number of minorities, women, and disadvantaged individuals working on IDOT (Illinois Department of Transportation) highway construction projects. The training consists of an intensive 12-week program to learn the skills necessary for acceptance into the highway construction trades and gives the opportunity for a career with high wage potential.

Career Opportunities include but are not limited to: Cement Mason, Electrician, Pipefitter, Carpenter, Laborer and Equipment Operator. All candidates must be 18 years and older, have a high school diploma/GED, interest in working in the construction trades and have a valid driver’s license with them to attend orientation. Participants will be required to pass a drug screening.

For more information or to register, please 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.

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

Broken, Healed, Stronger, Better!! Photographs by Tara Gray 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 of photographs entitled Broken, Healed, Stronger, Better!! by Tara Gray in the Photo Four Gallery at South Suburban College from Monday, March 29th through Thursday, May 6th.

Tara Gray is a photographer and CEO of Feel This Moment Photography. Broken, Healed, Stronger, Better!! is a body of work which features the artist’s God-sister and the story of her journey to form her own business. Ms. Gray notes that she chose to feature her because “I love helping to allow women to use their voice, to feel beautiful, and to help them feel unstoppable. We make complete art when we unite.”

Ms. Gray’s photographs are not merely portraits, but go beyond to create compositions with shapes and colors of objects in the background to add more dimensions to their personalities. The artist’s God-sister, friends, and family explode from the photographs with color and life. Through skillful use of pose, placement, and color, Ms. Gray indeed unites her subjects in an attitude of power, positivity, and self-confidence.

The SSC Photo Four Gallery is open Monday-Thursday, 9-5 p.m. The galleries are closed on weekends and holidays. An online gallery component and a Zoom gallery lecture will be announced at a later date. 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 Amy Babinec at (847) 868-3069 or visit www.ssc.edu/art. SSC is located at 15800 South State Street, South Holland, Illinois.

College Bookstore Management and Operations

South Suburban College is soliciting competitive sealed proposals from qualified, experienced, financially sound and responsible organizations for the comprehensive management and operation of the SSC Bookstore. The Contract will be for a five-year period, with the option to renew for a successive five-year period.
 
Mandatory Pre-proposal Meeting
April 15, 2021 @ 1:00 PM — Board Room

Proposal Submittal and Acknowledge Deadline
April 30, 2021 — College Bookstore

Award
A five year contract for the provision of the College Bookstore management and operations was awarded to Follett Education on June 10, 2021.

South Suburban College Student Jaleel Harris Named to Illinois Community College Board

SOUTH HOLLAND, IL—The Illinois Community College Board (ICCB) announced this week the appointment of South Suburban College (SSC) student Jaleel Harris to its 2021-22 Student Board. Candidate review and voting from the pool of nominations was recently conducted by the ICCB Student Advisory Committee.

Harris, a 26-year old resident of Chicago, first enrolled at SSC after graduating from Homewood Flossmoor High School in 2012. He is currently studying Business Administration.

“I am honored to serve my students and community through the amazing opportunity,” said Harris. “Here at SSC, our Mission is to serve our students and community through lifelong learning. With pleasure, this is a mission I will honor throughout my professional journey and one I will cherish when performing my responsibilities with the ICCB.”

Harris said he has future plans to further his education in Sociology with the goal of starting a foundation focused on the needs of at-risk youth.

“My experience here as both a student and student employee has taught me a variety of values. Most importantly, I have learned the significance of acquired knowledge and service.” Harris added, “Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. once stated, ‘life’s most persistent and urgent question is, what are you doing for others?’”

Harris represents the second South Suburban College student elected to serve on the state-wide board. Dr. Lynette Stokes previously became the first SSC President named to the Illinois Community College Board in 2020.

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 academic program options. For more information about SSC, please visit www.ssc.edu.
 
Pictured: College student Jaleel Harris, pictured at South Suburban College.

Hall of Fame Baseball Coach Steve Ruzich Wins 1200th Game

SOUTH HOLLAND, IL – South Suburban College head baseball coach Steve Ruzich won his 1,200th baseball game on Saturday, March 20th, picking up the 8-6 victory against Carl Sandburg.

Ruzich has been the head baseball coach at South Suburban College for the last 35 years, compiling a win/loss record of 1,200 and 717. More importantly, he has sent over 325 student-athletes to four-year institutions throughout the entire country. Under Coach “Ru”, the Bulldogs have also had 24 players drafted, and produced five big leaguers.

“It has been an honor to be able to work and learn under Coach Ruzich,” assistant baseball coach Marty Joyce said. “Every day he brings energy and passion to the field that really motivates the guys to get better. The best thing about this program is that he makes it into a family atmosphere, and he cares about each individual guy.”

Inducted into the NJCAA Baseball Coaches Association Hall of Fame in 2014, Ruzich has led the Bulldogs to two NJCAA Division I World Series Appearances (1991, 2006), 11 Regional titles, and coached 15 NJCAA Division I All-Americans. He has also been named the N4C Coach of the Year, Region 4 Coach of the Year twelve times, Great Lakes District Coach of the Year, and Diamond District Coach of the Year.

“The 1,200 wins means how many great players I have been fortunate to be able to coach. These players have made this program where it is today.” Coach Ruzich said in a statement after the victory.

Before taking over the Bulldogs program at age 24, Ruzich played two years for Thornton Community College (now South Suburban College) after transferring back from Illinois State University. After moving on with his degree, Ruzich transferred to St. Francis University in Joliet, Illinois where he played under legendary coach Gordie Gillespie. He was then drafted in the 30th round of the 1985 MLB draft by the Chicago White Sox.

SSC Presents a Virtual Town Hall Meeting Entitled RECOVER! RETOOL! RENEW! The Covid-19 Vaccine Rollout

SOUTH HOLLAND, IL–South Suburban College Business & Career Institute, along with the South Suburban Small Business Association (SSSBA) and SCORE will present a virtual Town Hall Meeting with Dr. Ngozi Ezike, Director of the IDPH entitled RECOVER! RETOOL! RENEW! A Town Hall Meeting with Dr. Ngozi Ezike on Tuesday, March 23rd from 6:00 – 7:15 p.m.

Dr. Ngozi Ezike is the Director of the Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) – the first Black woman appointed to lead the 143-year old state agency. Dr. Ezike is a board-certified internist and pediatrician who previously worked for the Cook County Department of Public Health, where she served for more than 15 years. She also was medical director at the Cook County Juvenile Temporary Detention Center.

Moderator Kristi DeLaurentiis is Executive Director of the South Suburban Mayors and Managers Association (SSMMA), an intergovernmental agency dedicated to meeting the needs of communities in the south suburban Chicago area. Throughout the pandemic, SSMMA has served as a clearinghouse for information on COVID-19 impact within the region.

Register for this free virtual Townhall Meeting at http://bit.ly/sscrecover2021. A link will be sent to registrants prior to the event. For more information please contact Lois Fuentes at lfuentes@ssc.edu.

South Suburban College COVID-19 Drive-Thru Testing Site Adjusts Weekday Schedule, Reopens Saturdays

SOUTH HOLLAND, IL–The South Suburban College COVID-19 testing site has further scaled back its operation from seven days a week to four days a week in response to slowing demand for testing. Testing will now continue on Monday, Wednesday, Friday, and Saturday, from 8 a.m. – 4 p.m. through April as part of its most recent intergovernmental agreement renewal with the Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH). No appointment is necessary for the drive-thru tents set up at the College’s Main Campus parking lot. Testing site inquiries may be made by calling (888) 297-7208.

Vaccinations continue Mondays through Saturdays from 8 a.m. – 6 p.m. at Cook County’s mass vaccination site within South Suburban College’s Gymnasium. Vaccinations at all Cook County Health sites are provided by appointment at vaccine.cookcountyil.gov. Individuals without Internet access or who need assistance scheduling may call (833) 308-1988 (from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m., Monday – Friday). Cook County Health will continue to offer appointment slots based on the amount of vaccine expected and will add appointments as new vaccine shipments arrive. As vaccine becomes available, Cook County Health opens new appointments.

South Suburban College cannot answer specific questions regarding testing results or vaccination scheduling.

In addition to Cook County Health sites, the Cook County Department of Public Health has distributed vaccines to more than 90 partner locations including Jewel-Osco, Mariano’s, Walgreens, Federally Qualified Health Centers and hospitals who are also offering vaccines by appointment. Additional sites can be found at https://coronavirus.illinois.gov/s/vaccination-location.

Take Summer Classes at South Suburban College and Benefit from Scholarships, Tuition Assistance Programs and Free Laptops

SOUTH HOLLAND, IL–South Suburban College (SSC) continues its efforts to provide flexibility to college degree seekers interrupted by the pandemic with a virtual classroom model and some in-person options, as well as a wide range of tuition and technology supports. Summer Registration is now in progress online from ssc.edu. The 2021 Summer Semester begins the week of Monday, June 7th for both credit and non-credit classes. Summer students are encouraged to register early to secure grant opportunities and a preferred schedule.

The summer semester is an excellent opportunity for students to take the next step in their success by customizing a class schedule at a convenient, affordable institution. New SSC students should get started with the Online Application from ssc.edu. Once the application process is complete, new students will receive an SSC email account and a Self Service Username & Password via email which will allow access to student information and class registration.

The SSC Foundation has extended its scholarship deadline to Friday, April 16, 2021, for new and current students. More than 150 scholarships with a wide range of criteria are available for the coming summer and fall enrollment periods. The application process is made easy and must be completed online at ssc.edu/scholarships.

SSC previously announced the free laptop application and other technical supports such as hotspots to assist students with the virtual learning environment. Applications are accepted from www.ssc.edu/technology-relief-fund/. Former students make take advantage of a new one-time SSC Student Debt Relief Fund from www.ssc.edu/student-debt-relief-fund.

SSC’s Workforce Equity Initiative (WEI) grant provides wrap-around services including comprehensive financial assistance and academic support to participating students within a variety of program areas providing stackable credentials. These programs will be highlighted at the upcoming Open Houses including Nursing, Patient Care Technician (PCT), Basic Nursing Assistance Training Program (BNATP), Community Healthcare Worker (CHW), Certified Production Technician (CPT), Solar Photovoltaic Installer, Forklift Operator, and the brand-new Barber College at the college’s Main Campus. For more information about the WEI programs at SSC, please call (708) 596-2000, ext. 2413, email workforceequity@ssc.edu or visit www.ssc.edu/wei.

In addition to the live chat function at ssc.edu, prospective students may call (708) 210-5718 for assistance, or email registration&records@ssc.edu or CounselingCenterQuestions@ssc.edu.

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.

South Suburban College COVID-19 Drive-Thru Testing Site Now Open Weekdays Only

SOUTH HOLLAND, IL–The South Suburban College COVID-19 testing site has scaled back its operation from seven days a week to five days a week in response to slowing demand for testing. Testing will continue on Mondays through Fridays from 8 a.m. – 4 p.m. through April as part of its most recent intergovernmental agreement renewal with the Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH). No appointment is necessary for the drive-thru tents set up at the College’s Main Campus parking lot. Testing site inquiries may be made by calling (888) 297-7208.

Vaccinations continue Mondays through Saturdays from 8 a.m. – 6 p.m. at Cook County’s mass vaccination site within South Suburban College’s Gymnasium. Vaccinations at all Cook County Health sites are provided by appointment at vaccine.cookcountyil.gov. Individuals without Internet access or who need assistance scheduling may call (833) 308-1988 (from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m., Monday – Friday). Cook County Health will continue to offer appointment slots based on the amount of vaccine expected and will add appointments as new vaccine shipments arrive. As vaccine becomes available, Cook County Health opens new appointments. South Suburban College cannot answer specific questions regarding testing results or vaccination scheduling.

In addition to Cook County Health sites, the Cook County Department of Public Health has distributed vaccines to more than 90 partner locations including Jewel-Osco, Mariano’s, Walgreens, Federally Qualified Health Centers and hospitals who are also offering vaccines by appointment. Additional sites can be found at https://coronavirus.illinois.gov/s/vaccination-location.

South Suburban College Nursing Program Ranked Top 3 in Illinois by Nursing Advocacy Organization

SOUTH HOLLAND, IL–South Suburban College’s (SSC) Associate Degree Nursing Program (ADN) has been named the #3 Ranked Nursing Program in Illinois by RegisteredNursing.org – a nursing advocacy organization. RegisteredNursing.org recently released its annual list of Best RN Programs.

Nursing programs are assessed on several factors which represent how well a program supports students towards licensure and beyond. RegisteredNursing.org also analyzes past and present first time NCLEX-RN “pass-rates” – weighted by year (more information on the methodology is accessible from https://www.registerednursing.org/rn-ranking-methodology/).

“Recognitions like these are the result of a lot of hard work by our instructors and students,” said Dr. Linda Brown-Aldridge, Dean of Nursing at SSC. “It is even more rewarding and inspiring to see our students achieve success and become part of a workforce that needs talented, caring people more than ever.”

2021 Top Ranked Nursing Schools badgeThe NCLEX (National Council Licensure Examination) for registered nurses is a standardized exam that each state board of nursing uses to determine whether or not a candidate is prepared for entry-level nursing practice. SSC’s recent graduate success is the culmination of five consecutive years above the annual national average pass rates including multiple 100% passing graduated classes since the program reopened in 2013. The College’s ADN Program has undergone a major transformation, from revitalizing curriculum to providing innovative new student support systems and cutting-edge technology.

“Dr. Brown-Aldridge and her team have really taken the program to a new level since her arrival in 2019,” said Dr. Lynette D. Stokes, SSC President. “We are excited about the opportunity for more significant growth as the pandemic slows.”

Stokes said that South Suburban College is strategically working to increase awareness to expand the Nursing student population with an eye toward a state-of-the-art Allied Health & Nursing Center, which is quietly in development at the Main Campus in South Holland (email foundation@ssc.edu for more information).

While the next admission cycle closes this March 1st for the Fall 2021 Semester, new prospective students are encouraged to begin their prerequisites as early as this summer by creating a plan with an SSC Counselor. The College also has plans for launching an LPN-RN bridge pathway this year.

The SSC Nursing Program is approved by the Illinois Department of Professional Regulations (IDFPR) and the college is accredited by the North Central Higher Learning Commission (HLC), both critical components to proper credentialing and certification upon graduation. It is a two-year Associate in Applied Science curriculum that provides learning experiences directed by faculty in local hospitals and health agencies to focus on the direct nursing care of patients of all ages.

For more information about Nursing and other Allied Health Programs at SSC, please visit ssc.edu/success or call (708) 596-2000, ext. 2260. Email CounselingCenterQuestions@ssc.edu for information about prerequisites and scheduling.

Free Tuition for Qualified Applicants Available for Short-Term WEI Programs this March at South Suburban College – REVISED

SOUTH HOLLAND, IL– Prospective students are encouraged to register now for Workforce Equity Initiative (WEI) classes starting at South Suburban College (SSC) March 15th and later. The WEI grant supports 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.

Three, short-term courses are still available this spring as 8-week classes starting March 15th and later:

Solar Photovoltaic (Solar Panel) Installers
BLD-299 661, Solar Core may be taken on Mondays OR Wednesdays from 6:30-8:20 p.m. beginning on March 15th.
Instruction in the special skills to both install and maintain solar energy panels for residential, commercial, and agricultural customers. Basic installer earnings are approximately $48,900 per year with post-apprenticeship earnings over $100,000 on average. The employment growth of 63% is expected by 2028, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). For more information, please contact Eugene Damiani, program coordinator, at (708) 596-2000, ext. 2292 or email edamiani@ssc.edu.

Forklift Operator Training
Forklift Operator Training is a one-day course on either March 30, 31 or April 1st from 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
Illinois requires all forklift operators to obtain a license to avoid OSHA sanctions and possible penalties. Individuals who wish to pursue a new career or to ensure a safer, compliant workforce are encouraged to attend. This course provides the basic forklift driving skills needed to obtain the Forklift Operator Certification. A certification card from the National Safety Council will be issued to the student upon successful completion of the program. According to BLS, entry level operator earnings are approximately $38,500 per year on average. For more information contact Gervaise Edwards at (708) 225-6032, or email gedwards@ssc.edu.

Contact Tracing
CHW–250 will be offered virtually beginning on March 15th.
This course provides an overview of contact tracing to meet the demand of the growing public health workforce for contact tracing investigators. It will provide training on the basics of disease transmission and the principles behind case isolation and quarantine of contacts as a public health measure. Curriculum will also focus on the ethics around public health data collection and use, risk communication, cultural sensitivity, health equity and the basics of data collection for COVID-19 and other communicable diseases where contact tracers are needed. For more information about contact tracing, please contact Cynthia Williams at (708) 596-2000, ext. 2421 or email CWilliams@ssc.edu.

For more information about free tuition and other WEI benefits for these and other short-term career programs, please email workforceequity@ssc.edu or visit ssc.edu/wei.

Cook County Announces Third Large Scale Community Vaccination Site at South Suburban College

SOUTH HOLLAND, IL – Cook County Board President Toni Preckwinkle and Cook County Health System CEO Israel Rocha announced today that Cook County will open its third large scale vaccine administration site at South Suburban College to continue vaccinations for individuals eligible under 1b.

Phase 1b includes individuals age 65 and older and essential workers such as first responders, manufacturing employees and grocery store personnel. While an estimated 600,000 suburban individuals are eligible for vaccine under Phase 1b, officials continue to remind the public that there is currently not adequate vaccine supply to vaccinate everyone.

“While current vaccine supply does not meet the demand and in fact has been exhausted – we are standing up large scale sites now to ensure that we are ready as vaccine supply is expected to increase in the weeks and months ahead,” said Cook County Board President Toni Preckwinkle.

South Suburban College, located in South Holland, is the third large-scale site Cook County has operationalized following the Tinley Park Convention Center on January 26, 2021 and Triton College on February 2, 2021. When fully operationalized and when ample vaccine supply becomes available, Cook County Health estimates it will be able to provide more than 4,000 vaccines weekly at South Suburban College. To date, Cook County Health has provided nearly 70,000 vaccine doses which is only a fraction of what is needed to get us to the next phase.

“The South Suburban College Board of Trustees and our executive leadership team are proud to collaborate with Cook County to provide a safe, convenient, COVID-19 vaccination site right here at our main campus in South Holland,” said Frank M. Zuccarelli, Chairman of the SSC Board of Trustees. “We applaud President Preckwinkle, the Board of Commissioners and medical professionals of Cook County Health for your tireless efforts to protect our community.”

Vaccinations at all Cook County Health sites are provided by appointment only. Cook County Health will continue to only offer appointment slots based on the amount of vaccine expected and will add appointments as new vaccine shipments arrive. At this time, Cook County Health has exhausted its vaccine supply and cannot open new appointments.

“We are equally as frustrated as the community with the lack of vaccine that has been distributed. We are asking Cook County residents for their continued patience as we work to ramp up one of the largest County-operated vaccine programs in the country,” said Israel Rocha, CEO, Cook County Health.

When vaccine becomes available, Cook County Health will announce the availability of new appointments which can be made at vaccine.cookcountyil.gov. Individuals without internet access or who need assistance scheduling may call (833) 308-1988 (from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m., Monday – Friday).

In addition to Cook County Health sites, the Cook County Department of Public Health has distributed vaccines to more than 90 partner locations including Jewel-Osco, Mariano’s, Walgreens, Federally Qualified Health Centers and hospitals who are also offering vaccines by appointment. Additional sites can be found at https://coronavirus.illinois.gov/s/vaccination-location.

In the weeks ahead and pending vaccine availability, Cook County plans to open several additional large sites across the suburbs. County officials expect Phase 1b to take some time and caution residents to remember that moving through the various phases is contingent on the availability of vaccine. Residents not yet eligible for vaccine can also sign up at vaccine.cookcountyil.gov to receive updates on their phase and for information on dozens of additional vaccination sites across Cook County.

“Along the Des Plaines River” Exhibition by Amy Babinec and George Liebert at South Suburban College’s Dorothea Thiel Gallery

SOUTH HOLLAND, IL–The Art & Design Department of South Suburban College is pleased to present an exhibition entitled “Along the Des Plaines River” by college faculty member Amy Babinec and George Liebert. The exhibition will be on display in the Dorothea Thiel Gallery until February 4, 2021. An artist’s reception and lecture will be announced at a later date.

Along the Desplaines features a series of paintings created by Amy Babinec and George Liebert, featuring plein-air landscapes along the Desplaines River. Plein-air painting is done outdoors at the site of the subject of the painting, relying on direct observation and capturing the spirt of the landscape. Historically, many artists have chosen to use this method to better capture and interpret the feeling of the landscape, notably more difficult than studio painting where the artist works inside separated from natural elements. The show contrasts two different reactions to the landscape along the Desplaines River. Babinec’s paintings, completed on-site, capture the seasonal color and light within carefully considered geometric compositions. Liebert expands his watercolor and ink sketches into abstractions in the studio, creating improvisational, calligraphic riffs on the traditions of landscape painting, color theory, and art history.

Amy Babinec is a graduate of the University of Chicago and the School of the Art Institute of Chicago. She currently teaches painting, drawing, and design at South Suburban College. George Liebert is Adjunct Associate Professor of Painting and Drawing at the School of The Art Institute of Chicago.

The Dorothea Thiel Gallery is located on the fourth floor and is open for visitors with masks and social distancing 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 jtassin@ssc.edu or call (708) 596-2000, ext. 2316.

Acrylic on paper by Amy Babinec

Acrylic on paper by Amy Babinec
Acrylic on panel by George Liebert

Acrylic on panel by George Liebert

Crucial Conversations: Recognizing & Addressing Sexual Harassment In The Workplace (A Virtual Webinar)

SOUTH HOLLAND, IL–The Business & Career Institute (BCI) of South Suburban College presents a virtual webinar entitled Crucial Conversations: Recognizing & Addressing Sexual Harassment in the Workplace on Wednesday, March 3rd from 9:00 – 10:15 am.
Allegations of sexual harassment and workplace misconduct have permeated the news in the last few years. As a result, in 2020 Governor Pritzker mandated all Illinois businesses to provide sexual harassment training for all employees at least once a year. In the webinar, HR Consultant Alexandra Glumac will address three important questions:

  • What is sexual harassment?
  • What do you do if you experience or witness it? and;
  • Whose responsibility is it to stop it? Who should attend?

There are 1.0 PDCs available for SHRM-CP, SHRM-SCP and HRCI certification holders. Certificates of completion will be available upon request for individuals representing other industries, to satisfy Governor Pritzker’s mandate.

Sponsored in part by the South Suburban Cook Human Resources Association. The cost is just $25 per person or $20 per person if 3 or more from the same company attend (add $10 surcharge for PDC’s).

The workshop will be held virtually and reservations are required. To register, please email bci@ssc.edu or call (708) 225-6055. RESERVATIONS REQUIRED BY 12 NOON MONDAY, MARCH 1ST. For additional information please call (708) 596-2000, ext. 3254 or email aglumac@ssc.edu.

BCI to Host Virtual Workshop Exploring the Hidden Power of Racism in the Workplace

SOUTH HOLLAND, IL–The Business & Career Institute (BCI) of South Suburban College presents a virtual workshop entitled Racism Anonymous: Exploring the Hidden Power of Racism in the Workplace on Thursday, February 25th from 9:00 a.m. – 12:00 noon.

In this engaging 3-hour introductory workshop, participants will explore the internal and external influences that shape our personal and racial identities. The webinar will examine racism and how those mostly invisible forces elicit structural advantages for some, but also create many harmful impacts on our society and those living within it.

Facilitator Leah Hinton will primarily address four crucial questions that will include:

  1. What is racism really and how does it affect everyone?
  2. How has racism contributed to the shaping of your identity?
  3. How does racism show up as a power system in our culture and at work?
  4. What do I need to know in order to fight racism on the job?

This introductory workshop demonstrates that productive conversations about race are possible and that there is an effective methodology for facilitating them. The workshop may serve as a starting point for an organizational journey toward becoming an anti-racist, multicultural organization.

About the facilitator: Leah Hinton is a native of the south suburban Chicago area who has an extensive background in human resources with a concentration in talent acquisition, training, diversity people culture and professional development. Leah holds a BA from Chicago State University. Her work experience includes cooperative, organizational and agency employment relations. Leah is excited to bring this important dialogue to the southland business community.

Who should attend?

  • Business owners, administrators, C-suite executives
  • Supervisors, managers, team leaders
  • Human resources professionals
  • Employees
  • Anyone aligned with the fight against racism

There are 3.0 PDCs available for SHRM-CP, SHRM-SCP and HRCI certification holders. Certificates of completion will be available upon request.

This virtual workshop is sponsored in part by Providence Bank, the South Holland Business Association and the South Suburban Cook HR Association. The cost to attend is just $35 per person or $30 per person if three or more from the same company attend. To register, please call (708) 225-6055 or email bci@ssc.edu. Zoom link will be provided after receipt of payment. RESERVATIONS ARE REQUIRED BY 12 NOON ON TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 23RD. For other questions, please email aglumac@ssc.edu.

Students Who Register for “Late Start” Classes at South Suburban College May Still Benefit from Tuition Assistance, Free Laptops

SOUTH HOLLAND, IL– South Suburban College (SSC) continues its efforts to provide flexibility to college degree seekers interrupted by the pandemic including late start 12-week and 8-week classes beginning February 8th and later. Spring class schedules, registration services and a new “live chat” with staff are all available online from ssc.edu.

SSC previously announced the free laptop application and other technical supports such as hotspots to assist students with the virtual learning environment. Applications are accepted from https://www.ssc.edu/technology-relief-fund/. Late starting students may also take advantage of SSC’s free class tuition waiver from www.ssc.edu/freeclass. Former students make take advantage of a new one-time SSC Student Debt Relief Fund from www.ssc.edu/student-debt-relief-fund.

Additionally, SSC’s Workforce Equity Initiative (WEI) grant provides wrap-around services including comprehensive financial assistance and academic support to participating students within a variety of program areas providing stackable credentials. These programs will be highlighted at the upcoming Open Houses including Nursing, Patient Care Technician (PCT), Basic Nursing Assistance Training Program (BNATP), Community Healthcare Worker (CHW), Certified Production Technician (CPT), Solar Photovoltaic Installer, Forklift Operator, and the brand-new Barber College at the college’s Main Campus. For more information about the WEI programs at SSC, please call (708) 596-2000, ext. 2413, email workforceequity@ssc.edu or visit www.ssc.edu/wei.

In addition to the live chat function at ssc.edu, prospective students may call (708) 210-5718 for assistance, or email registration&records@ssc.edu or CounselingCenterQuestions@ssc.edu.

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.

South Suburban College Announces Opening of Barber College at South Holland Campus in the Spring

SOUTH HOLLAND, IL – The South Suburban College Board of Trustees approved the hiring of its first ever Barber College faculty Bobby Mattison at its November 12th Board Meeting. Chairman Frank M. Zuccarelli and the SSC Board first announced the establishment program last December. The college subsequently received full approval from the Illinois Community College Board (ICCB) this year as well as its licensure from the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation (IDFPR). Construction for the new, fully equipped barbering facility has already been completed at the college’s Main Campus in South Holland.

Mattison will begin leading the program effective January 4, 2021 as SSC readies to open for the spring semester. A licensed barber and barbering instructor, Mattison was instrumental in growing and licensing a Barbering Program at Statesville Correctional Center, and most recently at Cook County Juvenile Detention Center. He also opened a private business called Legacy Barber College with a partner in Glenwood, IL, for which he was featured on ABC News.

Mattison says he looks forward to creating new opportunities for others to become barbers and is excited to get started in his full-time role at the brand-new barber shop/lab at SSC. “You have to find something you love and would do it for free but find a way to get paid for it,” said Mattison. “Barbering is that for me and I know it can be for so many others.”

The SSC Barbering program was established in part by a Workforce Equity Initiative (WEI) grant the college received through the Illinois Community College Board which included funding for several new in-demand programs. The WEI project is designed to create, support and expand short-term workforce training opportunities in high need areas within SSC District #510. Through expanded access, opportunity, and support services, the project is anticipated to yield impactful outcomes for individuals, families, communities, local businesses.

The Barbering curriculum is a 17-month credit program leading to professional certification. SSC will be offering a 41-hour Barber Technician (BT) Certificate and a 60-hour Associate of Applied Science Degree in Barbering track for students seeking a college degree as a part of the program. Both tracks will include preparation and testing for National Barbering Written Licensing Examination, which is essential to applying for licensure in Illinois.

“South Suburban College’s Barbering Program will be the only active public Barber School in the state,” added Matt Beasland, Dean of Adult & Continuing Education and administrator over the Barber College. “It will provide our constituents with quick access to a career credential that can lead to family sustaining wages.”

According to BLS data, the average salary for a Barber in Illinois is $42,930, or $20.64 per hour with an increase in demand of 9% by 2026. In the Southland area, there are currently 286 new job openings for barbers.

For more information about Barber School and the WEI programs at SSC, please call (708) 596-2000, ext. 2413, email workforceequity@ssc.edu or visit www.ssc.edu/wei. Most SSC courses will continue to be offered through the virtual classroom model during the Spring 2021 Semester, with exceptions for some programs such as Barbering. Social distancing and PPEs will be used as appropriate for in-person classes.

South Suburban College to Host Virtual Family Reading Night

SOUTH HOLLAND, IL–South Suburban College’s Adult Volunteer Literacy Program is hosting a virtual Family Reading Night event on Wednesday, November 18th beginning at 6:00 p.m. live from the South Suburban College Facebook page. The public is encouraged to join SSC for this free event to learn more about community literacy while enjoying stories and live presentations.

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 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. 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 Family Reading Night or the Adult Volunteer Literacy Program, please contact Raylynn Stokes, coordinator, at (708) 596-2000, ext. 2558, or email rstokes@ssc.edu. This event is sponsored in part by the SSC Foundation.

South Suburban College Paralegal Program to host Virtual Open House, Promote Spring Entry Course

SOUTH HOLLAND, IL– South Suburban College is hosting a Virtual Open House for its Paralegal Program on Thursday, December 10th at 6:00 p.m. via Zoom. The Paralegal Program is offering an entry level class in the Spring 2021 Semester at SSC. Virtual Open House attendees will access the ZOOM link through ssc.edu/info and be informed about an exciting career pathway with a significant occupational growth outlook.

Information will be provided about SSC’s Paralegal/Legal Assistant curriculum including a 60-hour Associate Degree program and a 39-hour Certificate, both designed to prepare 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 including:

  • Civil and criminal litigation
  • Law offices, and corporate legal departments
  • Insurance and banking
  • Public and governmental agencies

“Whether you are looking for a change in your career path or looking to begin a career, this is an excellent opportunity for anyone who has an interest in the law,” says Becky Walters, J.D., Paralegal Program Coordinator.

SSC has the only American Bar Association (ABA) approved paralegal program in the Chicago Southland and Northwest Indiana region, arming graduates with a significant advantage entering the workforce. As such, the College requires that all of its instructors be lawyers or judges to ensure the quality of instruction. Prior to joining the SSC team, Walters was a Cook County Assistant State’s Attorney for nearly 12 years.

SSC has announced spring classes will be offered through its virtual classroom beginning Monday, January 11, 2021, and class schedules, registration services and a new “live chat” with staff are all available online from ssc.edu. Future SSC students can get started at admissions.ssc.edu.

Crucial Conversations: Recognizing & Addressing Sexual Harassment in the Workplace (A Virtual Webinar)

SOUTH HOLLAND, IL – The Business & Career Institute (BCI) of South Suburban College presents a webinar entitled Crucial Conversations: Recognizing & Addressing Sexual Harassment in the Workplace (A Virtual Webinar) on Wednesday, December 2nd from 9:00 – 10:15 am.

Allegations of sexual harassment and workplace misconduct have permeated the news in the last few years. As a result, Governor Pritzker mandated all Illinois businesses to provide sexual harassment training for all employees at least once a year, starting in 2020. Behavioral health occupations requiring an Illinois license are also mandated to attend this training. In the webinar, HR Consultant Alexandra Glumac will address three important questions:

  • What is sexual harassment?
  • What do you do if you experience or witness it? and;
  • Whose responsibility is it to stop it? Who should attend?

1.0 Continuing Education credits are available for Licensed Professional Counselors, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselors, Licensed Social Workers and Licensed Clinical Social workers, meeting the criteria for these professionals regarding sexual harassment training.

1.0 PDCs are available for SHRM-CP & SHRM-SCP holders.

Certificates of completion will be available upon request for individuals representing other industries, to satisfy Governor Pritzker’s mandate.

COST: $25 per person; $20 per person if 3 or more from the same company attend. Add $10 surcharge for CEU’s or PDC’s.

The workshop will be held virtually and reservations are required. To register, please email bci@ssc.edu or call (708) 225-6055. RESERVATIONS REQUIRED BY 12:00 pm MONDAY, NOVEMBER 30th. For additional information please call (708) 596-2000, ext. 3254 or email aglumac@ssc.edu.

Thank you to our partners: UChicago Medicine at Ingalls and South Suburban Cook Human Resources Association.

Business & Career Institute Presents: Exploring the Hidden Power of Racism in the Workplace Webinar

SOUTH HOLLAND, IL – The Business & Career Institute (BCI) of South Suburban College presents a webinar entitled Racism Anonymous: Exploring the Hidden Power of Racism in the Workplace on Thursday, December 3rd from 9:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.

In this lively and engaging three-hour introductory workshop, participants will explore the internal and external influences that shape our personal and racial identities. We then examine racism and how those mostly invisible forces elicit structural advantages for some but also create many harmful impacts on our society and those living within it. The following four questions that will be explored:

  1. What is racism really and how it does it affect everyone?
  2. How has racism contributed to the shaping of your identity?
  3. How does racism show up as a power system in our culture and at work?
  4. What do I need to know in order to fight racism on the job?
    1. This introductory workshop demonstrates that productive conversations about race are possible and that there is an effective methodology for facilitating them. The workshop serves as a starting point for an organizational journey toward becoming an anti-racist, multicultural organization for all the following associates:

      • Business owners, administrators, C-suite executives
      • Supervisors, managers, team leaders
      • Human resources professionals
      • Employees
      • Anyone aligned with the fight against racism
        • The workshop will be held virtually and reservations are required. The cost to attend is $35 per person or $30 per person if three or more from the same company attend. To register, please call (708) 225-6055 or email bci@ssc.edu, and for other questions, email aglumac@ssc.edu.

          About the facilitator: Dr. AnDrea Larkin Hendrix, is an educator who loves to harness critical thinking and healthy debate to inspire learning. She has taught at the college and university levels for 25 years. She has a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Communications and History, and a Master of Education Degree in Instructional Technology, specializing in HR training and development. AnDrea uses her Ph.D. studies in Rhetoric to examine how people use symbols and messages to create knowledge.

South Suburban College Announces Virtual Classroom, Free Class and Free Laptop Applications for the Spring Semester

SOUTH HOLLAND, IL–South Suburban College (SSC) announces the extension of its Virtual Classroom Model for the 2021 Spring Semester, including online and blended classroom instruction methods and limited on-campus activities. Spring classes begin Monday, January 11, 2021, and class schedules, registration services and a new “live chat” with staff are all available online from ssc.edu.

SSC previously announced the extension of its Virtual Classroom Model for the 2020 Fall Semester along with a free laptop application and other technical supports such as hotspots to assist students with the virtual learning environment. Apply from https://www.ssc.edu/technology-relief-fund/.

New students may also take advantage of SSC’s free class tuition waiver available to first time credit students for fall or spring semesters who reside within SSC District 510 or Lake County, Indiana (cannot be used with Federal and/or State Financial Aid, or other tuition or employer subsidy programs). Apply from www.ssc.edu/freeclass.

Additionally, former students make take advantage of a new one-time SSC Student Debt Relief Fund. Financial resources are allocated to students who have been impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic and are distributed on a case-by-case basis until exhausted. Apply from www.ssc.edu/student-debt-relief-fund.

“These measures will be implemented in ways that prioritize the quality of the student experience,” said President Lynette D. Stokes, Ed.D. “We continue to provide high quality educational opportunities for current students and for anyone who has been impacted by the pandemic. We are at your service.”

Future SSC students should get started at admissions.ssc.edu. Once the application process is complete, new students will receive an SSC email account and a Self-Service Username & Password via email which will allow access to student information and class registration.

In addition to the live chat function at ssc.edu, prospective students may call (708) 210-5718 for assistance, or email registration&records@ssc.edu with registration questions or CounselingCenterQuestions@ssc.edu with questions for the SSC Counseling Office.

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.

Javier Jasso’s “Consecutive: Linear, Passenger” exhibiting at South Suburban College’s Dulgar Gallery

SOUTH HOLLAND, IL– The South Suburban College Art & Design Department presents an exhibition by artist Javier Jasso entitled “Consecutive: Linear, Passenger” in the Dulgar Gallery through December 4, 2020, with a Virtual Reception on a date to be announced.

Javier Jasso is a Mexican American artist born in Chicago and raised in Mexico. He lives and works on the Southside of Chicago, Back of the Yards neighborhood. Javier says he is a metaphorical and literal builder. Many of the materials he uses come from recycled sources such as metal, plaster, plastic, concrete and wood that he collects from his neighborhood, along with ceramic, a medium and practice that he carries with him from his hometown of Alfareros in Guadalajara, Mexico.

Jasso explains: “Using my personal experience along with research, my current work addresses my perception of how humans respond to their surroundings as well as to the social and cultural issues relating to the natural inclination of searching and finding a place to call ‘home’. I examine space in an ever-evolving concept in today’s global society. I transform the familiarity of a domestic space into a liminal one, where ‘home’ is both an idealized concept and physical reality, paradoxical poetical, and perhaps fictional.”

The public is welcome to visit the art exhibition and reception at no charge; masks and social distancing are required. The Dulgar Gallery is on the 1st Floor of SSC’s Main Campus. SSC Galleries are open Mondays: 8:30am – 12:30pm; Tuesdays: 12:30 – 4:30pm; Wednesdays: 8:30am – 12:30pm; Thursdays: 12:30 – 4:30pm and Fridays: 10:00am – 2:00pm. For more information, please call (708) 596-2000, ext. 2300, visit www.ssc.edu/art, or email etucker@ssc.edu. SSC is located at 15800 South State Street, South Holland, Illinois.

South Suburban College Extends COVID-19 Drive-Thru Testing Site Services through December with the IDPH

SOUTH HOLLAND, IL– South Suburban College has signed a new intergovernmental agreement with the Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) to continue free COVID-19 testing on its Main Campus in South Holland through December 31, 2020.

“This is great news for our SSC employees and students, and for our organizational partners and residents,” said Frank M. Zuccarelli, Chairman of the SSC Board of Trustees. “We have heard from our community about the convenience of this site helping them to better deal with the challenges of the pandemic. We are pleased to offer this support for the remainder of this year.”

The COVID-19 testing drive-thru is conducted by HR Support in the SSC Fitness Center’s east parking lot seven days a week. Tents are highly visible and cars may enter from either 159th Street or State Street to follow the signage. Daily testing is available from 8-4 p.m., and a security detail will continue to be in place while testing is open.

More details about the testing process include:

  • Testing is available for anyone, not only Illinois residents
  • Testing is available for all ages (with parental consent)
  • State-issued identification is required
  • Testing will now be conducted via nasal swab which is painless, and a significant improvement over the more invasive nasopharyngeal test
  • Results are delivered by phone within 4-7 business days

Inquiries may be submitted to (888) 297-7208 or christopherbmurray@gmail.com. SSC is located at 15800 S. State Street, South Holland, Illinois. The drive-thru route will still be limited to south side of campus near the athletic fields. Employees, students and visitors will access the Main Campus through 158th Street, and north lots and entrances.

COVID-19 symptoms may include fever, sore throat, loss of taste, cough or shortness of breath. Visit CDC.gov for more information regarding symptoms.

South Suburban College Business & Career Institute to offer Virtual Sales Meetings Webinar

SOUTH HOLLAND, IL–The Business & Career Institute (BCI) of South Suburban College (SSC) will present a webinar entitled Excelling at the Virtual Sale on Wednesday, October 14th from 9:00 – 10:15 a.m.

The pandemic has put a hold on most traditional face-to-face sales calls and other meetings for the foreseeable future. Now, pitching a product or service or finalizing the sale takes place on Zoom or a phone call. This can be tricky without the ability to see and assess one’s body language and non-verbal behavior. Join expert Tom Byelick as he helps attendees customize a sales approach designed to energize wary and weary clients. Mr. Byelick has years of corporate sales experience and has taught sales courses at Purdue University Calumet.

Participants will gain the following insights from attending:

  • Techniques to establish client buy-in through an empathetic sales approach;
  • Stronger client relationships through a customer-centric approach; and
  • Getting to the “close” of the sale without the pressure.

For additional information please call (708) 596-2000, ext. 3254 or e-mail aglumac@ssc.edu.

The workshop will be held virtually. There is no cost to attend but attendees must register by October 13th from https://excellingatvirtualsales.eventbrite.com.

South Suburban College Dean Jeff Waddy Appointed to National Network of Health Career Programs Board

SOUTH HOLLAND, IL—The National Network of Health Career Programs in Two-Year Colleges (NN2) announced last week the appointment of South Suburban College’s Jeff Waddy, MCHES, DrPH, Dean of Allied Health & Careers, to its board. Dr. Waddy is one of just three new board members elected at large from the membership in 2020. NN2 is the only interdisciplinary professional organization serving two-year colleges and programs. Its purpose is to promote and encourage innovation, collaboration, and communication among two-year colleges sponsoring health career programs.

“It is an honor to join the NN2 Board,” said Dr. Waddy. “SSC and NN2 will continue to strive to find new strategies for dealing with challenges in health care. Professional advocacy and clinical placement are pressing concerns during the pandemic. We must work together to resolve these challenges to allow our allied health students back into hospitals, clinics, and other institutions to make a positive impact.”

Jeffery J. Waddy graduated from Albany State College in 1998 with a Bachelor’s Degree in Biology/Chemistry. While pursuing his undergraduate studies, Waddy was a participant in the Multidisciplinary International Research Training (MIRT) Grant. This opportunity presented Waddy with the ability to perform scholarly research at the Max Delbruck Center for Molecular Medicine in Berlin, Germany. Prior to joining the Master’s Degree program at Southern Illinois University, Waddy worked for J Leek & Associates as a microbiology technician. After completing his Master’s in Health Education/Gerontology, Waddy relocated to the Chicagoland area to work with the Metropolitan Chicago Healthcare Council (MCHC). Founded in 1935, MCHC is composed of more than 140 hospitals and health care organizations in the Chicago metropolitan area.

Dr. Waddy joined SSC as Dean of Allied Health in 2005. He earned his DrPH Degree from the University of Illinois at Chicago’s School of Public Health in 2017. He currently leads 12 health care programs at SSC.

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 wide range of academic program options. For more information about SSC, please visit www.ssc.edu.

Artworks by Rafael Rocha on Display in South Suburban College’s Dorothea Thiel Gallery in Honor of Hispanic Heritage Month

SOUTH HOLLAND, IL–The Art & Design Department of South Suburban College (SSC) is pleased to present a collection of artworks by Rafael Rocha. The solo exhibition will be on display in the Dorothea Thiel Gallery from September 21 – October 16. An artist reception and lecture will be announced at a later date.

Rafael Rocha received his Master of Fine Arts Degree from Northern Illinois University. He is an independent artist with a studio in Aurora, Illinois. Mr. Rocha is also a lecturer and studio instructor at SSC. His artwork is both expressive and figurative using human gesture as a basis for communication of expression. The sculptural work is constructed from common building materials and the paintings utilize traditional oil-painting techniques for portraiture. Rocha’s artworks on exhibit focus on his students, himself and associates in gritty sublimely expressive oil portraits, and the figurative sculpture using insulation foam and other industrial materials in expressive gestural life scale human forms. He is influenced by classical western art as well as contemporary events.

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. Masks and social distancing are required on campus. 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 jtassin@ssc.edu or call (708) 596-2000, ext. 2316.
 
IMAGE: “Rejoice” – 65”x47” media oil on canvas from Rafael Rocha’s collection exhibiting at South Suburban College.

SSC to Offer Crucial Conversations Webinar: Recognizing & Addressing Sexual Harassment in the Workplace

SOUTH HOLLAND, IL–The Business & Career Institute (BCI) of South Suburban College presents a webinar entitled Crucial Conversations: Recognizing & Addressing Sexual Harassment in the Workplace (A Virtual Webinar) on Tuesday, September 29th from 9:00 – 10:00 am and again on Wednesday, September 30th from 12:00 – 1:00 pm.

Allegations of sexual harassment and workplace misconduct have permeated the news in the last few years. As a result, Governor Pritzker mandated all Illinois businesses to provide sexual harassment training for all employees at least once a year, starting in 2020. Behavioral health occupations requiring an Illinois license are also mandated to attend this training. In the webinar, HR Consultant Alexandra Glumac will address three important questions:

  • What is sexual harassment?
  • What do you do if you experience or witness it? and;
  • Whose responsibility is it to stop it?

Attendees will receive 1.0 continuing education credits Licensed Professional Counselors, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselors, Licensed Social Workers and Licensed Clinical Social workers, meeting the criteria for these professionals regarding sexual harassment training. Additionally, 1.0 PDCs are available for SHRM-CP & SHRM-SCP holders.

Certificates of completion will be available upon request for individuals representing other industries, to satisfy Governor Pritzker’s mandate.

The cost is $25 per person, or $20 per person if three or more from the same company attend (add $10 surcharge for CEU’s or PDC’s).

The workshop will be held virtually and reservations are required. To register, please email bci@ssc.edu or call (708) 225-6055. RESERVATIONS REQUIRED BY 12 NOON MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 28TH. For additional information please call (708) 596-2000, ext. 3254 or email aglumac@ssc.edu. Sponsored by UChicago Medicine Ingalls Memorial and South Suburban Cook Human Resources Association.

Forklift Operator Training Coming to Oak Forest Center

SOUTH HOLLAND, IL– South Suburban College’s Business & Career Institute is offering Forklift Operator Training on two separate sessions in September and four sessions in October at the Oak Forest Center. This certification course covers the basic forklift driving skills needed to obtain a Forklift Operator Certification. 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.

The cost for each course is $175.00 per person. The September sessions will be held from 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. on Friday, September 25th and Saturday, September 26th. The October sessions will be held from 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. on Saturday, October 17th, Tuesday, October 20th, Wednesday, October 21st, and Thursday, October 22nd.

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.

For more information, please contact Gervaise Edwards at (708) 225-6032 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. Para Información En Español Llame: (708) 210-5740.

Students who Register for 12-Week Virtual Classes at SSC may benefit from Free Class Waiver, Free Laptops

SOUTH HOLLAND, IL–South Suburban College (SSC) continues its efforts to provide flexibility to college degree seekers interrupted by the pandemic including late start 12-week classes beginning September 21, 2020. SSC previously announced the extension of its Virtual Classroom Model for the 2020 Fall Semester along with a free laptop application and other technical supports such as hotspots to assist students with the virtual learning environment. The late start schedule and registration are available online from ssc.edu.

Late start students may also take advantage of SSC’s free class tuition waiver available to first time credit students for fall or spring semesters who reside within SSC District 510 or Lake County, Indiana (cannot be used with Federal and/or State Financial Aid, or other tuition or employer subsidy programs).

Future SSC students should get started at admissions.ssc.edu. Once the application process is complete, new students will receive an SSC email account and a Self-Service Username & Password via email which will allow access to student information and class registration.

Current and prospective students can email registration&records@ssc.edu for additional assistance with registration, or email CounselingCenterQuestions@ssc.edu with questions for the SSC Counseling Office.

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.

South Suburban College to Close on Election Day, November 3, 2020

SOUTH HOLLAND, IL– In accordance with the implementation of the new election day closure provisions of Public Act 101-0642, the South Suburban College Board of Trustees enacted the college’s recognition of November 3rd as 2020 General Election Day at its August 13th Board Meeting. SSC’s Main Campus and Oak Forest Center will join all other Illinois community college campuses in closing for classes and to the public on Tuesday, November 3, 2020, for the benefit of community health.

Public Act 101-0642 states in part: Notwithstanding any other provision of State law to the
contrary, November 3, 2020 shall be a State holiday known as 2020 General Election Day and shall be observed throughout the State pursuant to this amendatory Act of the 101st General Assembly. All government offices, with the exception of election authorities, shall be closed unless authorized to be used as a location for election day services or as a polling place.

Protecting the health and safety of Illinoisans is among the most important functions of State government. COVID-19 presents a severe public health emergency, and the World Health Organization, the United States government, the Governor of Illinois, and the General Assembly therefore declared it necessary and appropriate to make modifications to the administration and conduct of the elections for the November 2020 General Election. The State holiday is for this year only and expires on January 1, 2021.

For information about serving as an election judge or other role in the 2020 General Election in Suburban Cook County, please email Elect.Judge@cookcountyil.gov or call (312) 603-0965. Participants will be required to certify in writing to the election authority the political party the judge chooses to affiliate with.

South Suburban College extends registration, offers tuition debt assistance and laptops to help students prepare for virtual learning

SOUTH HOLLAND, IL–South Suburban College (SSC) recently announced the extension of registration and tuition payments through its new class start date of August 24th to assist students who have delayed their registration decisions about fall classes. Additionally, the college is awarding tuition debt awards to students who have outstanding 2020 bills along with new laptops and other technical supports to help new and current students become successful in the virtual learning environment.

These additional resources are available as follows:

SSC expects to distribute significant awards and resources leading up to the start of fall classes and through the late start schedule in September. Future SSC students should get started at admissions.ssc.edu. Once the application process is complete, new students will receive an SSC email account and a Self-Service Username & Password via email which will allow access to student information and class registration.

Current and prospective students can email registration&records@ssc.edu for additional assistance with registration, or email CounselingCenterQuestions@ssc.edu with questions for the SSC Counseling Office.

South Suburban College Offers Technology Support to Fall Semester Students

SOUTH HOLLAND, IL–South Suburban College (SSC) recently announced the extension of its Virtual Classroom Model for the 2020 Fall Semester, including blended classroom instruction methods, limited on-campus activities and athletic programs training. Additionally, the college is awarding new laptops and other technical supports such as hotspots to assist students with the technology necessary to be successful in the virtual learning environment. Fall classes begin Monday, August 17th and class schedules and registration are available online from ssc.edu.

Current and new students need only to complete a simple online form at https://www.ssc.edu/technology-relief-fund/ to apply. SSC expects to distribute significant awards/resources leading up to the start of fall classes and through the late start schedule in September.

Registration Services are open on campus from 8 am – 7 pm Monday through Thursday, Friday from 8 am – 4 pm, and on Saturday, August 15th from 9 am – 1 pm. Virtual student services are also available through ssc.edu.
Future SSC students should get started at admissions.ssc.edu. Once the application process is complete, new students will receive an SSC email account and a Self-Service Username & Password via email which will allow access to student information and class registration.

Current and prospective students can email registration&records@ssc.edu for additional assistance with registration, or email CounselingCenterQuestions@ssc.edu with questions for the SSC Counseling Office.

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.

South Suburban College COVID-19 Testing Tent Starts 8-4 Drive-Thru Hours – REVISED

SOUTH HOLLAND, IL– South Suburban College’s COVID-19 testing drive-thru is making some minor modifications including relocated testing tents to the SSC Fitness Center’s east parking lot, and offering new hours from 8 a.m. – 4 p.m. HR Support has taken over the ongoing testing responsibilities from the National Guard with continued oversight from the Governor’s Office and the Illinois Emergency Management Agency (IEMA). The changes are intended to improve traffic flow and overall testing accessibility.

With testing moved to the Fitness Center’s east lot, tents will be highly visible and cars may enter from either 159th Street or State Street to follow the signage. Testing will continue seven days a week, and a security detail will continue to be in place while testing is open.

More details about the testing process include:

  • Testing is available for anyone, not only Illinois residents
  • Testing is available for all ages (with parental consent)
  • State-issued identification is required
  • Testing will now be conducted via nasal swab which is painless, and a significant improvement over the more invasive nasopharyngeal test
  • Results are delivered by phone within 4-7 business days

Inquiries may be submitted to christopherbmurray@gmail.com. SSC is located at 15800 S. State Street, South Holland, Illinois. The drive-thru route will still be limited to south side of campus near the athletic fields. Employees, students and visitors will access the Main Campus through 158th Street, and north lots and entrances.

COVID-19 symptoms include but are not limited to fever, cough, shortness of breath, difficulty breathing, chills, repeated shaking with chills, muscle pain, headache, sore throat, and loss of taste or smell.

South Suburban College Hosts Pinning Ceremony for Associate Degree Nurses, Program Sees Growth Ahead

Dr. Aldridge-Brown appointed to UC Ingalls Memorial Community Advisory Council.

 
SOUTH HOLLAND-South Suburban College recently honored the 2020 graduates of the College’s Associated Degree Nursing (ADN) Program with a special socially distanced ceremony. The graduates received their nursing pins from Dr. Tasha Williams, Vice President of Academic Services, and Dr. Linda Brown-Aldridge, who completed her first full academic year as the Dean of Nursing at SSC.

This year, seven students successfully completed the ADN program. One of the graduates, Shautavia Meeks-Gill, has already passed National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX) for Registered Nurses (RN). Her fellow graduates are awaiting their test dates. The students were given the opportunity to attend the mid-year conference of the National Student Nurses Association (NSNA) in October 2019. With their attendance included the membership in the NSNA, which inspired the students to establish a local chapter at SSC.

“The graduates’ dedication, hard work, and resilience is inspiring, especially with the challenge of COVID-19 during the spring semester,” said Dr. Brown-Aldridge. “The faculty and staff worked hard with the students to provide the needed support for their success during the pandemic.”

When she joined SSC in spring of 2019, Dr. Brown-Aldridge brought more than 30 years of experience working in hospitals and schools in many roles including nursing, teaching, administration and serving as the Chief Nursing Officer at Provident Hospital. She has worked hard with Dr. Williams and her team to position the revitalized program for significant growth. The program admitted 42 new first year Nursing students for the Fall 2020 Semester, the largest class in several years.

“I am dedicated to growing this nursing program to address the health disparities and nursing shortage for our community,” added Dr. Brown-Aldridge. “The decision to come to SSC was life changing for me. Working with the great administration, faculty, staff and students this past year has been very rewarding and fulfilling.”

Dr. Brown-Aldridge was also recently appointed to the University of Chicago Ingalls Memorial Community Advisory Council (CAC). UC Ingalls Memorial recently announced the creation of its first CAC to seek community input on health issues of importance to its primary service area and surrounding communities. Following a rigorous review process, Ingalls leadership selected 15 council members to serve.

The next admission cycle opens October 1st 2020 to March 1st 2021 for the class to begin Fall 2021. SSC’s ADN Program is a two-year Associate in Applied Science program that provides learning experiences directed by faculty in local hospitals and health agencies to focus on the direct nursing care of patients of all ages. Upon completion of the program, graduates are eligible to sit for the NCLEX.

Fall classes will be offered in virtual, online and blended instruction methods beginning August 17, 2020. For more information about the ADN program, please visit ssc.edu/success or call (708) 596-2000, ext. 2260.

Forklift Operator Training Coming to Oak Forest Center

SOUTH HOLLAND, IL– South Suburban College’s Business & Career Institute is offering Forklift Operator Training on three separate sessions in July and three sessions in August at the Oak Forest Center. This certification course covers the basic fork lift driving skills needed to obtain a Fork Lift Operator Certification. A Certification Card from the National Safety Council will be issued to the student upon successful completion of the program.

The cost for each course is $175.00 per person. The July sessions will be held from 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. on Tuesday, July 28, Wednesday, July 29, and Thursday, July 30, 2020. The August sessions will be held from 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. on Monday, August 3, Tuesday, August 4, and Wednesday, August 5, 2020.

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 in 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.

For more information, please contact Gervaise Edwards at (708) 225-6032 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. Para Información En Español Llame: (708) 210-5740.

Opportunities & Pitfalls to Starting a Business during the Pandemic

SOUTH HOLLAND, IL–The Business & Career Institute (BCI) of South Suburban College presents a webinar entitled Opportunities & Pitfalls to Starting a Business during the Pandemic on Wednesday, August 5th from 12:00 – 1:15 p.m.

Do you have a great idea for a small business but aren’t sure if you should proceed? Is the post-pandemic economic climate conducive to even starting a business? Can you afford to wait? Join us and find out!! During this 75-minute open forum workshop, we’ll review the current employment scene and prospects for a start-up business, discuss advantages/disadvantages of starting a business in difficult economic times and outline a plan of action!

Our local expert is Tom Byelick owner of 3 small businesses; Ingenuity Small Business Collaborative, a consulting firm; Tomfoolery Fun Club, a comedy-based variety series and; Pretty Amazing!, which specializes in restoring and revitalizing driveways, patios, porches and decks.
We’ll also have a special guest appearance from Amy Todd, the owner of Mancino’s Pizza & Grinders who is opening a wine bar in Lansing, Illinois this fall called Pour on Roy.

Many thanks to our sponsors – ComEd, South Holland Business Association, Ingenuity Small Business Collaborative and South Suburban College!
The workshop will be held virtually and reservations are required. There is no cost to attend. To register, please go to https://www.eventbrite.com/e/opportunities-pitfalls-to-starting-a-business-during-a-pandemic-tickets-109833775780. For additional information, please contact Alexandra Glumac at aglumac@ssc.edu.

South Suburban College President Dr. Lynette Stokes Appointed to Illinois Community College Board

SOUTH HOLLAND, IL—The Illinois Community College Board (ICCB) announced last week the appointment of South Suburban College (SSC) President, Lynette D. Stokes, Ed.D. to its board. Dr. Stokes was one of just two new statewide appointments along with Dr. Larry Peterson, former President of Shawnee Community College, whom upon confirmation from the Senate will serve terms through June 30, 2021.

“It is truly an honor to be chosen by the Illinois Community College Board and a privilege to represent South Suburban College and my colleagues statewide during this critical time,” said Dr. Stokes. “I would like to thank the ICCB for the opportunity, as well as Governor J.B. Pritzker and Deputy Governor of Education Jesse Ruiz for their tireless efforts on behalf of education. They understand the critical role of community colleges, such as South Suburban College, in providing equitable opportunities to our community. I look forward to getting to work over the next year to address the challenges of the times and to advocate for our students.”

Having worked in public service for over 20 years, Dr. Stokes joined SSC in June 2013 as the Vice President of Academic Services and was named President on October 1, 2018. She has the distinction of being the first female President in the college’s 91-year rich history. Dr. Stokes has served as an advocate of youth in the child welfare system, taught elementary and community college education, and worked for equal rights organizations. Wanting to fulfill her desire to make a positive impact on the education of adult learners, Dr. Stokes earned her doctorate degree in Educational Leadership and Organizational Change at Roosevelt University in 2004. This academic credentialing, coupled with the skills she gained while working at the then Operation PUSH, Community Mental Health Council and Ada S. McKinley Community Services, provided the foundation to propel her career into higher education as Dean of Adult Education and Dean of Instruction at City Colleges of Chicago, where she served for nearly 12 years prior to moving to South Suburban. In addition to serving as a presenter for several professional development events in Higher Education and Child Welfare, Dr. Stokes is the 2005 recipient of Roosevelt University’s Most Outstanding Dissertation of the Year; the 2009 recipient of the Kathy Osterman Award for Outstanding Supervisor given to public service employees in the City of Chicago; and 2014 recipient of the Chicago Defender’s Women of Excellence Award. In 2018 she was honored with the Egretha Education Award for Excellence in Education and the Illinois Committee on Black Concerns in Higher Education (ICBCHE) Trailblazer Award. In 2020 Dr. Stokes was awarded the MLK Excellence in Education Award by the Southland Ministerial Health Network.

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 academic program options. For more information about SSC, please visit www.ssc.edu.

Free Highway Construction Careers Training Program returns with outside instruction at SSC’s Oak Forest Center in September

OAK FOREST, IL–South Suburban College is preparing for its next session of the popular free Highway Construction Careers Training Program (HCCTP) this fall. Orientation and Assessment Testing will be August 18-20, 2020, at the college’s Oak Forest Center, with the program set to begin on September 14th incorporating an outdoor classroom, social distancing and personal protective equipment.

SSC has offered HCCTP since 2014 with hundreds of students completing the 12-week specialized training program at a 70% completion rate. HCCTP was originally implemented to increase the number of minorities, women, and disadvantaged individuals working on IDOT highway construction projects.

The training consists of an intensive 12-week program to learn the skills necessary for acceptance into the highway construction trades and gives the opportunity for a career with high wage potential. Construction will always be needed for new buildings, roads, bridges, and other structures. Some of the more skilled construction careers such as engineer require higher education while others such as cement masonry can be learned as an on-the-job apprentice.

Career opportunities for program completers include: Cement Mason, Electrician, Pipefitter, Carpenter, Laborer and Equipment Operator, and more. Requirements are a valid driver’s license, 18 years or older, High School diploma/GED, and passing a drug test (including THC).

Orientation and assessment testing will be held outside at the OFC–located at 16333 South Kilbourn Avenue, Oak Forest, Illinois 60452. All candidates must have a valid driver’s license with them to attend orientation. For more information please visit www.ssc.edu/hcctp, call (708) 596-2000, ext. 3219, or email hcctp@ssc.edu. Para información en Español llame (708) 210-5740.

South Suburban College to Introduce Becky Walters as New Paralegal Program Coordinator at Virtual Open House

SOUTH HOLLAND, IL–South Suburban College (SSC) is pleased to announce Becky Walters, J.D., as its new Paralegal Program Coordinator. SSC will introduce Ms. Walters to current and prospective students through an upcoming Virtual Open House on Monday, July 20th at 6 p.m., accessible from ssc.edu/info. Ms. Walters has taught Criminal Law and Street Law as an Adjunct Professor at Prairie State College and has been a guest lecturer at DePaul University. She received her undergraduate degree from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign and her law degree from DePaul University College of Law.

SSC has the only American Bar Association (ABA) approved paralegal program in the Chicago Southland and Northwest Indiana region, arming graduates with a significant advantage entering the workforce. As such, the College requires that all of its instructors be lawyers or judges to ensure the quality of instruction. Prior to joining the SSC team, Walters was a Cook County Assistant State’s Attorney for nearly 12 years.

“I am thrilled to be joining the South Suburban College team, coordinating the only ABA approved Paralegal Program in the area and an esteemed Criminal Justice Program,” said Walters. “Years of working as an Assistant State’s Attorney in Alternative Prosecutions, working closely with law enforcement, and teaching college students will help me to bridge difficult gaps in these very critical times.”

As an ASA assigned to the Alternative Prosecution and Sentencing Unit, Walters led a team of ASAs screening Chicago felony cases for all of the Cook County Treatment Courts and Deferred Prosecution Programs and was also the assigned prosecutor to the Chicago Veteran’s Treatment Court. Last summer she was recognized by the Jesse Brown VA for her presentation on Veteran’s Treatment Court at their annual Mental Health Summit.

Virtual Open House attendees will access the ZOOM link through ssc.edu/info and be informed about an exciting career pathway with a significant occupational growth outlook. SSC’s Paralegal/Legal Assistant curriculum includes a 60-hour Associate Degree program and a 39-hour Certificate, both designed to prepare 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.

Fall classes at SSC will be offered in flexible online and blended options beginning Monday, August 17th and class schedules and registration are available online from ssc.edu. Future SSC students can get started at admissions.ssc.edu.

South Suburban College to Host Virtual Program Open Houses to Assist Students with Fall Enrollment

SOUTH HOLLAND, IL–South Suburban College (SSC) recently announced the extension of its Virtual Classroom Model for the 2020 Fall Semester, including a selection of classroom instruction methods, limited on-campus activities and athletic programs training. Throughout the month of July, SSC will be hosting a series of Virtual Open Houses on ZOOM to help students navigate the process and make choices about enrollment. These 30-minute sessions will include presentations and/or demonstrations that will highlight specific programs. The ZOOM links for accessing each of the following sessions are available from ssc.edu/info:

  • July 7th at 12 noon NURSING & BNATP (CNA)
  • July 9th at 6:00 p.m. BUILDING CONSTRUCTION & INDUSTRIAL TECHNOLOGY
  • July 14th at 12 noon ALLIED HEALTH & CAREERS
  • July 16th at 6:00 p.m. ALLIED HEALTH & CAREERS
  • July 21st at 12 noon COURT REPORTING
  • July 23rd at 6:00 p.m. MUSIC & BUSINESS
  • July 28th at 12 noon BARBERING
  • July 30th at 6:00 p.m. CHILD DEVELOPMENT & HUMAN SERVICES

Fall classes begin Monday, August 17th and class schedules and registration are available online from ssc.edu.

Future SSC students can get started at admissions.ssc.edu. Once the application process is complete, new students will receive an SSC email account and a Self-Service Username & Password via email which will allow access to student information and class registration. Email registration&records@ssc.edu for additional assistance with registration, or email CounselingCenterQuestions@ssc.edu with questions for the SSC Counseling Office. Laptops are available on a limited basis for students enrolling in the fall. Students who are registered and in need of a laptop should send an email to StudentLife@ssc.edu to begin the process.

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.

South Suburban College Announces Virtual Classroom and Blended Courses for the Fall Semester

SOUTH HOLLAND, IL–South Suburban College (SSC) announces the extension of its Virtual Classroom Model for the 2020 Fall Semester, including a blending of classroom instruction methods, limited on-campus activities and athletic programs training. Fall classes begin Monday, August 17th and class schedules and registration are available online from ssc.edu.

“These measures will be implemented in ways that prioritize the quality of the student experience,” said President Lynette D. Stokes, Ed.D. “We continue to provide high quality educational opportunities for current students and for anyone who has been impacted by the pandemic. We are at your service.”

Future SSC students should get started at admissions.ssc.edu. Once the application process is complete, new students will receive an SSC email account and a Self-Service Username & Password via email which will allow access to student information and class registration.

Current and prospective students can email registration&records@ssc.edu for additional assistance with registration, or email CounselingCenterQuestions@ssc.edu with questions for the SSC Counseling Office. Laptops are available on a limited basis for students enrolling in the fall. Students who are registered and in need of a laptop should send an email to StudentLife@ssc.edu to begin the process.

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.

Register Now for a New COVID-19 Contact Tracing Course at South Suburban College

SOUTH HOLLAND, IL– South Suburban College’s Office of Continuing Education is offering a new non-credit course this summer titled COVID–19 Contact Tracing: Changing the Face of the Public Health Workforce. With the pandemic-driven need for contact tracing, this course provides an overview of contact tracing investigations to meet the demand of the growing public health workforce of Contact Tracing Investigators.

COVID–19 Contact Tracing: Changing the Face of the Public Health Workforce is an online 4-week course with 24 contact hours. The course is self-paced and each student will be responsible for completing the course independently rather than following a structure set by an instructor. The course will provide training on the basics of disease transmission, the principles behind case isolation and quarantine of contacts as a public health measure, the ethics around public health data collection and use, risk communication, cultural sensitivity, and the basics of data collection. It will also provide an overview on how to assess relevant symptoms; investigate and follow up with contacts. Students will become knowledgeable about cultural sensitivity and humility as well as how to help contacts navigate the public health and healthcare systems in the jurisdictions in which they are working.

This is a partnership among Governor’s State University, Project Brotherhood and South Suburban College. Project Brotherhood is a health clinic focused on using community outreach and preventive education to meet the needs and improve the health of African American men in the Woodlawn area on the south side of Chicago, Illinois. The clinic is operated by a combination of staff, volunteers, and interns and hosts a variety of free services for members of the community.

“South Suburban College is pleased to announce this brand-new course to meet the demands of our workforce and provide a well-timed educational opportunity to our community professionals,” said Dr. Lynette Stokes, SSC President. “We see great value in collaborations like COVID–19 Contact Tracing, and I would like to thank GSU and Project Brotherhood for their partnership on this project.”

Course instructors include the following experts:

  • Dr. Linda Rae Murray, MD, MPH, FACP
  • Dr. Tonya Roberson, PhD, MPH, DTR
  • Mr. Marcus Murray, MPH

The first course begins on July 13th at a cost of $270.00. For more information please contact the Office of Continuing Education at (708) 596-2000, ext. 2231 or email noncredit@ssc.edu.

South Suburban College Announces Seven Academic All-Americans

SOUTH HOLLAND, IL– The South Suburban College (SSC) Athletic Department announces seven Academic All-Americans from the 2019-2020 Academic Year as recognized by the National Junior College Athletic Association (NJCAA):

  • Cayla Turner, Women’s Basketball, 3.64 GPA (Oak Forest High School)
  • Tom Dougherty, Baseball, 3.72 GPA (Shepard High School)
  • Haley Kohnen, Softball, 3.81 (Crown Point High School)
  • Thomas Windt, Baseball, 3.86 GPA (Carl Sandburg High School)
  • Nicolas Fies, Baseball, 3.90 GPA (Munster High School)
  • Alyssa Rosales, Women’s Soccer, 4.0 GPA (Homewood Flossmoor High School)
  • Maribel Salgado, Women’s Soccer, 4.0 GPA (Thornton High School)

“I am so very proud of our Academic All-Americans this year,” said Steve Ruzich, Athletic Director and Head Baseball Coach. “At SSC, we pride ourselves on fostering student success both on and off the field. These student-athletes were impacted by unprecedented times, moving to a fully virtual classroom, and in many cases not finishing their team seasons. I would like to congratulate them all.”

SSC offers women’s team sports of Basketball, Soccer, Volleyball, and Softball and men’s team sports of Basketball, Soccer, and Baseball. Countless Bulldog student-athletes have transferred to play their respective sports at hundreds of different NCAA Division I, Division II and Division III schools, in addition to NAIA institutions. More than 50 former Bulldogs have further advanced on to play professional and semi-pro sports.

For more information, visit www.ssc.edu/athletics. SSC is located at 15800 South State Street, South Holland, Illinois.

Governor Pritzker Visits Opening of New COVID-19 Testing Site at South Suburban College’s Main Campus in South Holland

SOUTH HOLLAND, IL– South Suburban College has been chosen as a COVID-19 testing site by the Illinois Emergency Management Agency (IEMA). Illinois Governor JB Pritzker visited the site today along with South Suburban College Chairman Frank M. Zuccarelli and President Lynette D. Stokes, Ed.D., on its opening day of testing. The testing tents were set up near the college’s Fitness Center, utilizing the spacious parking lot and secluded roadways for drive-thru testing.

“I was glad to visit our newly-relocated south suburban state testing site this morning in South Holland, and I thank the Illinois National Guard and South Suburban College for standing it up so quickly,” said Governor JB Pritzker. “Widespread testing is central to our strategy to beating this virus and restoring our state, so if you’re experiencing any symptoms or are more at-risk, please visit a site near you. It’s on all of us to protect our communities.”

The site will be open daily from 8 a.m. – 4 p.m. and testing is available to anyone with COVID-19 concerns. The drive-thru route will be limited to south side of campus near the athletic fields. Employees, students and visitors will access the Main Campus through 158th Street, and north lots and entrances.

“South Suburban College looks forward to providing a convenient, safe testing resource to our community,” said Chairman Zuccarelli. “As a community college, our mission of service to the community extends far beyond the classroom and we have always taken pride in stepping up to do our part when we are needed.”
Phase 3 of Restore Illinois is expected to bring approximately 700,000 Illinoisans back to the workplace, and with that comes the restoration of additional state services. The Illinois Environmental Protection Agency has resumed vehicle emission testing at the Markham Community Based Testing Site, prompting the COVID-19 testing relocation to SSC.

“It is an honor and a privilege to be able to provide this critical support in collaboration with IEMA and the National Guard,” added Dr. Stokes, President of SSC. “The testing will pose no disruptions to our community on campus. Our institution has also made an outstanding pivot to a virtual classroom model for our residents and college students that may be displaced this summer and fall.”

All individuals with symptoms are encouraged to seek testing at these Community Based Testing Sites. Symptoms include but are not limited to fever, cough, shortness of breath, difficulty breathing, chills, repeated shaking with chills, muscle pain, headache, sore throat, and new loss of taste or smell. Additional accommodations have been made for the following individuals with or without COVID-like symptoms:

  • Healthcare workers
  • First Responders
  • Employees of Correctional Facilities
  • Individuals exposed to confirmed COVID-19 patients
  • Employees that support Critical Infrastructure (grocery stores, pharmacies, restaurants, gas stations, public utilities, factories, childcare and sanitation)
  • All local and state government employees
  • Individuals with compromised immune systems, chronic medical conditions

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. Visit ssc.edu or email registration&records@ssc.edu for more information.

Dr. Lynette D. Stokes, South Suburban College President; JB Pritzker; Illinois Governor; Frank M. Zuccarelli, Chairman of the SSC Board of Trustees; and members of the National Guard discuss the opening of the new COVID-19 testing facility
Pictured: Dr. Lynette D. Stokes, South Suburban College President; JB Pritzker; Illinois Governor; Frank M. Zuccarelli, Chairman of the SSC Board of Trustees; and members of the National Guard discuss the opening of the new COVID-19 testing facility at the college’s Main Campus in South Holland.

Check Out South Suburban College’s Virtual Information Sessions to Get Ready for Summer and Fall Classes

SOUTH HOLLAND, IL– Summer and Fall Registrations are in progress at South Suburban College (SSC) online from ssc.edu. SSC is providing two sets of Virtual Information Sessions via Zoom on May 26th and 27th both for general enrollment and transfer questions, as well as Workforce Equity Initiative grant applications. The Virtual Information Session links are accessible through www.ssc.edu/info.

SSC has moved to a Virtual Classroom Model through the summer semester with some exceptions. The College continues to provide a high level of instruction, support services, and educational resources online and through e-learning technologies. The Virtual Information Sessions will assist prospective new students and reverse transfer students will acclimating to the new processes in order to get enrolled.

The general enrollment Virtual Information Sessions are as follows:

  • May 26, 6 p.m.
  • May 27, 12 noon

Additionally, the WEI grant provides wrap-around services including comprehensive financial assistance and academic support to participating students within five program areas providing stackable credentials including Nursing and Patient Care Technician (PCT), Basic Nursing Assistance Training Program (BNATP), Community Healthcare Worker (CHW), and Certified Production Technician (CPT) in addition to the Barbering program.

The WEI Virtual Information Sessions are as follows:

  • May 26, 12 noon
  • May 27, 6 p.m.

The 2020 Summer Semester begins the week of Monday, June 1st. Summer is an excellent time for students to take the next step in their success by customizing a class schedule at a convenient, affordable institution. Future SSC students should get started at admissions.ssc.edu. Once the application process is complete, new students will receive an SSC email account and a Self-Service Username & Password via email which will allow access to student information and class registration.

Visit www.ssc.edu/info or email registration&records@ssc.edu for additional information regarding these sessions, or for assistance with registration. Laptops are available on a limited basis for students enrolling in 2020 Summer and Fall Semesters. Students who are registered and in need of a laptop should send an email to StudentLife@ssc.edu to begin the process.

Cannabis Classes Among South Suburban College’s Summer Non-Credit Online Offerings

SOUTH HOLLAND, IL– It’s not too late to get registered for classes at South Suburban College. SSC’s Office of Continuing Education has scheduled a variety of non-credit courses that will be offered through the college’s Virtual Classroom this summer. Registration is open right up to the start of class the week of June 1, 2020.

New to SSC’s non-credit schedule are six Cannabis classes including an Introduction to Cannabis, Cooking with Cannabis, Cannabis Law, dispensary information and more. With the wide variety of start course lengths, times and offerings, students have the flexibility of fitting school around a busy schedule. Class topics include:

  • Art
  • Communications
  • Computers
  • Food Service Sanitation
  • Health & Wellness
  • Hospitality
  • Law Enforcement
  • Pharmacology (Cannabis)
  • Psychology
  • Real estate

For more information about SSC’s non-credit classes or to register, please contact the Office of Continuing Education at noncredit@ssc.edu or visit www.ssc.edu.

Classes Will be Offered Through Virtual Classroom Model This Summer at South Suburban College

SOUTH HOLLAND, IL– Summer Registration is in progress at South Suburban College (SSC) online from ssc.edu. The 2020 Summer Semester begins the week of Monday, June 1st. Current and prospective students are encouraged to register soon to secure their preferred schedule.

SSC has moved to a Virtual Classroom Model through the summer semester with some exceptions. The summer class schedule is updated weekly online from ssc.edu. The College continues to provide a high level of instruction, support services, and educational resources online and through e-learning technologies.

The summer semester is an excellent opportunity for students to take the next step in their success by customizing a class schedule at a convenient, affordable institution. Future SSC students should get started at admissions.ssc.edu. Once the application process is complete, new students will receive an SSC email account and a Self-Service Username & Password via email which will allow access to student information and class registration.

Current and prospective students can email registration&records@ssc.edu for additional assistance with registration, or email CounselingCenterQuestions@ssc.edu for questions for the SSC Counseling Office. Laptops are available on a limited basis for students enrolling in 2020 Summer and Fall Semesters. Students who are registered and in need of a laptop should send an email to StudentLife@ssc.edu to begin the process.

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.

South Suburban College Announces Tree Campus USA® Recognition on Earth Awareness Day

SOUTH HOLLAND, IL–In honor of Earth Awareness Day, South Suburban College is pleased to announce its 2019 Tree Campus USA® recognition. Tree Campus USA, an Arbor Day Foundation program, honors colleges and universities and their leaders for promoting healthy trees and engaging students and staff in the spirit of conservation. SSC was one of just 20 schools in Illinois to be recognized at the time of the award notification.

In a statement from Arbor Day Foundation, “to obtain this distinction, SSC met the five core standards for sustainable campus forestry required by Tree Campus USA, including establishment of a tree advisory committee, evidence of a campus tree-care plan, dedicated annual expenditures for its campus tree program, an Arbor Day observance and the sponsorship of student service-learning projects. Your entire campus community should be proud of this sustained commitment to environmental stewardship.”

If ever there was a time for trees, now is that time. Communities worldwide are facing issues with air quality, water resources, personal health and well-being, and energy use. SSC and its Sustainability Committee continue to work to do its part. The SSC Sustainability Committee was established in 2011 to coordinate SSC’s efforts in sustainability leadership within its community. Its number one goal is to educate staff and students about how to practice environmental stewardship at home and in the community.

SSC’s Main Campus has a diverse range of beautiful tree and plant species. The Main Campus is located at 15800 South State Street, South Holland, Illinois. Visit ssc.edu for more information.

 

Students of South Suburban College’s Green Club worked in collaboration with the College’s Sustainability Committee to achieve Tree Campus USA recognition.
Pictured – Students of South Suburban College’s Green Club worked in collaboration with the College’s Sustainability Committee to achieve Tree Campus USA recognition.

 

South Suburban College Foundation Seeks Student Assistance Donations through New COVID-19 Impact Fund

SOUTH HOLLAND, IL –South Suburban College Foundation (SSCF) is seeking donations to assist students with hardships as a result of the coronavirus pandemic, as well as initiate an investment in the expansion of College healthcare programs. The SSCF announced the establishment of a COVID-19 Student Impact Fund last week with an initial $10,000 commitment to provide some relief to students in the form of laptops, tuition and related educational expenses.

While donations of all levels are welcomed, the SSCF is seeking gifts of $600 to fulfill the maximum COVID-19 Student Impact Awards for each student, which is the estimated cost of one class, fees and book or the amount to cover a quality laptop and hotspot card for remote education. The College has moved to a Virtual Classroom Model through the remainder of the Spring 2020 Semester. Tax deductible donations to both new funds as well as the General Scholarship Fund and other may be made from ssc.edu/foundation or by check to “SSC Foundation” at 15800 S. State St., South Holland, IL 60473. The SSCF extended its general scholarship deadline to April 24th and its spring gala, Showcase 2020-Rx for Success, has been rescheduled for August 14, 2020.

CARES Act and New Tax Deduction for all Taxpayers
To help alleviate the economic devastation caused by the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic, Congress enacted the Coronavirus Aid Relief and Economic Security Act (CARES Act) last week which is distributing relief checks up to $1,200 per taxpayer. Among its many provisions is a new universal deduction for charitable contributions. Taxpayers who don’t itemize may now deduct up to $300 per year in charitable contributions. Congress has granted this universal nonitemized “above the line” charitable deduction so that all taxpayers can deduct at least some of their donations. Taxpayers should itemize only if all their personal deductions, including charitable contributions, exceed the standard deduction. The Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (TCJA), which went into effect in 2018, roughly doubled the standard deduction.

About the SSC Foundation
The mission of the South Suburban College Foundation is to support the educational purposes and objectives of the College by providing assistance in the promotion of its services and facilities. The SSC Foundation seeks funding to strengthen College programs with a primary focus on student scholarships. Established in 1973, the Foundation is solely governed by a Board of Directors composed of the region’s business, civic and community leaders. The SSCF is a philanthropic, not-for-profit organization chartered in the State of Illinois and is a 501(c)(3) tax-exempt organization (EIN: 237191738). It works cooperatively with individuals and organizations in developing a plan to fit the needs of the donors. Email foundation@ssc.edu.

Bulldogs Guard Carter Garners National Player of the Year Honors

SOUTH HOLLAND, IL–South Suburban College Men’s Basketball Player Courtney Carter has been named the 2019-20 National Junior College Athletic Association (NJCAA) Division II Men’s Basketball Player of the Year. A sophomore guard for the Bulldogs, Carter averaged 15.7 points and 7.9 rebounds per game along with an NJCAA-best mark of 5.5 steals per game and a fourth-best mark of 7.9 assists per game. He led South Suburban to a 29-4 overall record and a Regional Championship, before COVID-19 forced the cancellation of the National Tournament.
“It is a great honor to win the National Player of the Year,” said Carter. “I could not have done it without the great players and teammates I had around me. Working hard takes so much out of you for the moment, but puts so much in you for the future. It paid off.”

Carter represents South Suburban’s third National Player of the Year during Head Coach John Pigatti’ s past seven seasons (Michael Harris-2013, Jovan Mooring, 2016. Coach Pigatti was also named Region-IV-District-4 Coach-of-the-Year for the 10th time.

“I am extremely happy for Courtney to receive this honor,” said Coach Pigatti. “He has had a tough go at it with breaking his foot during the end of his freshman year and still playing the Regional and National Tournaments with it. His toughness, resilience, and hard work rehabbing last year paid off in receiving this award. Courtney is a special person, and I was honored to be his coach.”

Carter also earned NJCAA Region IV Tournament MVP and NJCAA DII First Team All-America honors. The Memphis, TN, native will stay in Illinois when he transfers to Southern Illinois University-Edwardsville of the Ohio Valley Conference to further his academic and athletic career this fall.

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.

NEWS ADVISORY: The 2020 Census is LIVE

You can now fill out your census form at home either ONLINE or by phone to (844) 330-2020 or (844) 468-2020 for Spanish. Be prepared with the letter you have received and follow the instructions on the U.S. Census website. Cook County will continue to conduct virtual outreach to make sure everyone is counted.

Why Does it Matter?

  • The Census impacts every individual and community in Cook County.
  • The data is used to distribute billions in federal funds to local communities in areas such as transportation, healthcare and affordable housing, to name a few. One example is the Community Development Block Grant Program.
  • An accurate census helps ensure fair representation at all levels of government – congressional districts, commissioner districts and wards.