SOUTH HOLLAND, IL – Students and staff at South Suburban College recently joined forces to assist in celebrating Women’s History Month by mounting photos, books, and articles of and about women for the display case located on the first floor near the Library entrance at SSC. Pictured from left to right are Trelissa Moses, SSC Student and Student Leadership Member; Alejandra Damas-Favela, SSC Student and Student Leadership Member; and Jaisyn Passmore, Student Life Assistant, Office of Student Life and Leadership. Their efforts have paid off as many students stop to read and admire the display.

Our next Women’s History Programming event is “The Non-Traditional Workforce for Women & Men.” This panel of students, workers in their fields, along with SSC educators and staff, will discuss and show the importance of non-traditional job roles for both male and female workers. Additionally, they will highlight how various professions have changed throughout the years, and how South Suburban College can help individuals get a head start, a certificate, or a degree toward these professions, many often paying $50,000 a year or more. Students, faculty, staff and the community are invited.

The event is planned for Wednesday, March 30, 2016 from 10 a.m. to 12 Noon in the Kindig Performing Arts Center on SSC’s Main Campus located at 15800 S. State Street in South Holland, IL. More information is available by calling Corrie Gray at (708) 596-2000, ext. 2499 or Patrice Burton at ext. 5841.

SOUTH HOLLAND, IL– The South Suburban College literary and art magazine The Scriblerian, has won “Most Outstanding Community College Literary/Art Magazine for 2015” from the American Scholastic Press Association and also a “First Place with Special Merit” award. Rick Jones, sponsor to the student organization the New Scriblerus Society for the past twenty-four years, said, “This is quite an honor and one we were surprised to receive. We have won First Place with Special Merit before but never this high honor of being the best in the entire United States. It shows that we are publishing an incredible product of the best in our students’ writing and artwork.” When the editor, Tyler Arnold, was informed, she exclaimed, “Awesome!” Jones said Arnold has been one of the best editors he has ever had the pleasure to work with on the magazine and that she had done outstanding editing for the past three issues of the magazine. “I have a new editor, Adam Witt, this year. He won our English department’s English Student of the Year award last May and is also an incredibly talented short story writer.”

The American Scholastic Press Association notified the college in December that it had won these awards. In a letter received, the ASPA stated, “Your magazine shows the superior efforts of talented and creative editors, writers, artists, layout/graphic designers, staff members and advisors. Creating the magazine supports a community of young writers and gives them esteem.” Jones said he really liked the final commentary that praised the magazine: “The Scriblerian is an excellent publication! Not only have you mastered the basic elements of a good magazine, but you have also published excellent works from your school’s population. Scriblerian is a model for those up-and-coming magazines and an inspiration for those magazines that haven’t quite aced the necessary skills.”

The magazine gave out awards for best poetry, best story, best essay, best art, and cover design at their awards celebration last June. Jones said that this year’s magazine will be available in May, and he expects it to have the same overall quality. He stated, “My layout editor and I work very closely in making sure the magazine contains only the best of the submitted works by our students and that it is proofread very well with each issue. We are quite proud of our accomplishments.” The 2015 edition of the magazine is available in the SSC English Department and library.

For more information about all of SSC’s programs, admissions and registration, please visit www.ssc.edu or contact the Admissions Office at (708) 210-5718.

SOUTH HOLLAND, IL–South Suburban College Board Chairman Frank Zuccarelli and President Don Manning recently addressed the Southland Ministerial Health Network (SMHN). Both Manning and Zuccarelli spoke to the esteemed group of church and community leaders about the health and educational needs of the south suburbs.

Zuccarelli stated in his emotional speech, “Enough is enough; the residents of the south suburbs have been ignored for too long. We must band together. We are not looking for a handout; we are just looking for an opportunity.” Zuccarelli and Manning spoke further about the budget crisis in Illinois and how the crisis is preventing south suburban residents from receiving education and workforce training.

Zuccarelli is also the Thornton Township Supervisor and pledged the support of the Township and the College to the Southland Ministerial Health Network. SMHN provides assistance to underserved residents of the south suburbs of Chicago.
For more information about all of SSC’s programs, admissions and registration, please visit www.ssc.edu or contact the Admissions Office at (708) 210-5718.

SOUTH HOLLAND – Career and Technical Education (CTE) plays a vital role in meeting workforce demands by preparing individuals for high-skill, in-demand jobs that further Illinois’ global competitiveness. Last year roughly two-thirds (66.9%) of all Illinois community college graduates earned a CTE degree or certificate. The Illinois Community College Board (ICCB) will join others across the nation during the month of February to celebrate national Career and Technical Education Month. This year’s theme is Opportunities for Career Success!

Illinois has seen continued growth and demand for postsecondary CTE in both higher completion rates and increased program offerings. Since fiscal year 2011, overall, CTE graduates have increased approximately 12 percent at Illinois’ community colleges. To meet workforce demands, 615 new CTE programs were approved last year at community colleges across the state.

“Career and technical education programs are at the core of the community college’s mission to provide educational opportunities tailored to local business and industry needs,” said ICCB executive director Dr. Karen Hunter Anderson. “By partnering with local, regional and national employers, CTE programs are investing in students and providing them with the latest technology and skills that will prepare them to become successful employees and future leaders.”

Carol Brooks, Executive Director of Career Development System in Oak Forest has this to add: “The benefits of career and technical education are extensive, playing a vital role in preparing high school students to transition to South Suburban College and/or the workforce. There are many opportunities for students to earn college credit while in high school through successful completion of CTE courses. In addition, CTE industry credentials are available for students to earn in the high school classroom, thus providing another facet towards their future careers.”

The number of students who were members of a state-recognized Career & Technical Student Organization (CTSOs) in 2014-15 totaled 34,393. “Students who participate in CTSOs demonstrate higher levels of academic engagement and motivation, civic engagement, career self-efficacy, and employability skills than other students.” (National Coordinating Council for CTSOs, 2015)

Resource: 2015 ILLINOIS CTE by the Numbers http://www.ilcte.org/fact-sheet/

For more information about all of SSC’s programs, admissions and registration, please visit www.ssc.edu or contact the Admissions Office at (708) 210-5718.

SOUTH HOLLAND, IL–In spite of the State budget situation, South Suburban College will continue to provide quality, affordable education with small class sizes and support services. We are not in danger of closing our doors and encourage you to look no farther than SSC when making your plans for the 2016-2017 academic year.

According to SSC President Don Manning, “South Suburban College will continue to provide workforce credentials to our residents; qualifications that can lead to better paying jobs and a better way of life.”

Summer is a great time to take a few classes and our schedule will be available online at www.ssc.edu beginning Monday, March 7, 2016 with registration opening on Monday, March 21, 2016. Don’t wait; classes fill quickly. You will also want to register early for fall to get the courses you want when you want them. Our fall schedule will be available online beginning Monday, April 4, 2016 with registration opening on Monday, April 18, 2016.

Still weighing your options? Come check us out. You may even be eligible to take your first class for free! Details are available online at www.ssc.edu/freeclass. For more information about all of SSC’s programs, admissions and registration, please visit www.ssc.edu or contact the Admissions Office at (708) 210-5718.

SOUTH HOLLAND, IL–South Suburban College is hosting the 2016 SSC Jazz Festival on Saturday, February 13th from 8:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m. in the Kindig Performing Arts Center. The 18th annual fest features performances by bands from eleven local high schools and middle schools, as well as instruction and performances by special guest clinicians. This year’s guest artists are saxophonist Mark O’Connor and bassist Marlene Rosenberg. As well, a jazz piano pedagogy clinic will be presented at 10:45 and 1:15 in room 1111 by Daniel Murphy.

“It’s an honor for us to have the festival running for 18 consecutive years,” said Rob Calhoon, SSC Director of Bands. “It is a tribute to South Suburban College, the attending schools and our guest artists to continue to keep our musical heritage alive and thriving.”

The SSC Jazz Festival is a one-day, non-competitive educational festival celebrating jazz and jazz education. Each band performs for and receives a performance clinic by the guest artists. The evening festival concert, taking place at 7:00 p.m. in the Kindig Performing Arts Center, will feature performances by the SSC Jazz Ensemble, the SSC Jazz Orchestra, guest artists O’Connor and Rosenberg, as well as select festival participants.

Admission to the festival, as well as to the evening festival concert, is free of charge. For more information or a complete performance schedule, contact the SSC Music Department at (708) 596-2000, ext. 2299. South Suburban College is located at 15800 South State Street, South Holland, IL.

SSC Jazz Festival

SOUTH HOLLAND, IL– On October 16, 2015, four class of 2016 SSC Occupational Therapy Assistant students participated in volunteering for the 2015 MDA (Muscular Dystrophy Association) Muscle Team Gala held in the ballroom at Navy Pier. Their hard work, energy and enthusiasm helped the event to raise over $440,000 dollars to support MDA services, programs and research. The students who participated were Ulices Maldonado, Kelly Moriarty, Hope Franzen and Jodi Daebelliehn. South Suburban College is proud of our students for serving their community.

For more information about all of SSC’s programs, admissions and registration, please contact the Admissions Office at (708) 210-5718. SSC is located at 15800 South State Street, South Holland, Illinois. The Oak Forest Center is located at 16333 S. Kilbourn, Oak Forest, Illinois.

SOUTH HOLLAND, IL– Community colleges have long operated in the shadows of more expensive four-year colleges, but worries about the cost of college are now drawing students to two-year programs. A new survey by WGBH News shows Americans believe strongly that community colleges are essential to providing families with opportunities and give high ratings to the quality of community colleges compared to four-year universities—and consider them a much better value.

Increasingly, the public has come to understand the importance of a community college education. Data revealed that if someone knew a high school graduate who had inherited $200,000, nearly two-thirds of those polled said they would encourage him or her to go to a community college and keep the rest of the money, instead of spending it all on a four-year degree, the survey, by WGBH News in Boston, found.

One reason is a backlash against the price of private four-year colleges and universities. Fewer than half of those polled said they considered four-year private colleges and universities a good value for the money. Affordability is a factor driving 75 percent of community college students’ enrollment.

“This really is bubbling into the mainstream,” said Chris Anderson, president of Anderson and Robbins Research, who conducted the survey. “The value proposition with four-year colleges may be a little bit out of whack right now.”

With open enrollment and low-cost tuition, South Suburban College serves all students, including: full-time workers, parents, military veterans, immigrants and people who speak English as a second language. Our campuses in South Holland and Oak Forest offer an academic curriculum, which attracts students looking to continue at a four-year institution, as well as those preparing to go right into the workforce. Payment options such as Financial Aid, Scholarships, Work Study and FACTS payment plan are available to help students pursue their education. A variety of one-class tuition waivers can also be found online at ssc.edu. Our Child Care Center serves students in need of child care while participating in college classes and related activities.

Prospective students are encouraged to get started soon with the Online Application at ssc.edu. Tuition at SSC is only $135 per credit hour for In-District students, and the Lake County rate is just $170 per credit hour.

For more information about all of SSC’s programs, admissions and registration, please contact the Admissions Office at (708) 210-5718. SSC is located at 15800 South State Street, South Holland, Illinois. The Oak Forest Center is located at 16333 S. Kilbourn, Oak Forest, Illinois.

SOUTH HOLLAND, IL– The pre-season #19 ranked South Suburban College Men’s Basketball Team opens its 2015-16 season on Saturday, October 31, 2015 at 1:30 pm. vs. Trinity Christian College (JV). This year’s squad includes several players from NW Indiana: Anthony Harris (Griffith HS), Marlon Northern (Gary West Side), Devon Mingo (Hammond Morton), and Jalen Wilbert (Merrillville) who will help lead this year’s Bulldogs. The players from the South Suburbs (IL): Jovan Mooring (Hillcrest HS), Russell Robinson Jr. (Seton Academy), Rashaad Alexander (Thornwood HS), and Greg Martin (Tinley Park HS) will also lead this year’s team.

Come out and support the Bulldogs!

All home games will be broadcasted on WJOB 1230AM Radio, and you can listen to the games globally at www.wjob1230.com. Coach Pigatti will talk about the upcoming season on Thursday, October 29, 2015 at 9:00am on “Jed in the Morning” which runs on WJOB 1230AM.

For more information call: John Pigatti, Head Men’s Basketball Coach, South Suburban College at (708) 596-2000 x2524, or send an email to jpigatti@ssc.edu.

SOUTH HOLLAND, IL–South Suburban College is proud to announce alumnus Mark Hood will be appearing this season on NBC’s “The Voice.” After choosing to join Pharrell’s team during the Blind Auditions, Mark has moved into the Battle Rounds.

During the “blinds,” the auditioning singers select the team he or she wants to join if more than one of the celebrity mentors hits the buzzer to turn their chair because they like what they are hearing. Hood received the full four-chair turn for his rendition of Bill Withers “Use Me.” He chose to join Team Pharrell after stating his sound is “kind of like John Legend meets Pharrell.”

Hood, 24 years old, was born, raised and currently lives in Chicago, Illinois. He recently graduated from SSC in May of 2015 after studying Radio/TV Communications and participating in the college’s studio programs and talent shows.

“Being a communications student at SSC, I was exposed to so many facets of TV production, which helped my love for entertainment grow,” said Hood. “Learning the behind the scenes, believe it or not, helped me in front of the camera.”

Hood added, “As a freshman at SSC, I participated in the school talent show one cold November night, and I sang the wrong song! It was there that I learned to trust my gut, and don’t try songs you’ve never sang before. I also first sang the National Anthem at an SSC Bulldogs Basketball game, which is a hard song but I conquered it with my SSC supporters standing right there watching.”

“SSC was a home for me where I could express my creative talents. Even when music or performing had nothing to do with the class or lesson, my approach was still appreciated and respected,” said Hood. “Another reason I fell in love with SSC was Mr. John Geraci–he was an amazing instructor that pushed me, yet respected me, and he developed my love and skill for communications like no one else could!”

“The Voice” airs at 7:00 p.m. Mondays and Tuesdays on NBC. Hood’s second performance on the show will come next week during the Battle Rounds. “My goals are to be a successful actor and singer garnering Grammys, Oscars, Tonys and Emmys,” said Hood.

SOUTH HOLLAND, IL –The Art & Design Department of South Suburban College is pleased to announce a special guest artist solo exhibition of paintings titled “Moves” by Jay Songero in the Dorothea Thiel Gallery from October 13th through November 20th. There will also be a closing reception for the artist on Tuesday, October 20th at 1:00 p.m. The Dorothea Thiel Gallery is located on the 4th Floor of SSC’s Main Campus. Samples of Songero’s work may be viewed at www.songero.com. The paintings and drawings are inspired by and reflect abstract expressionism and stain painting. The work reflects upon the relationship between viewer and the material essence of the painted image without need for second person.

Songero graduated Thornton High School and attended South Suburban College in the early 70’s as a student for the founder of the SSC Art & Design Department–Dorothea Thiel. A native born Chicago “south-sider,” Songero also attended Northern Illinois University where he studied as a teacher and painter, and earned both Bachelor’s and Master’s of Fine Arts Degrees. He subsequently studied and exhibited in New York City in the late 1970’s and early 80’s. His career was changed by meeting the influential dealer OK Harris Gallery, Mr. Ivan Karp, a cigar-chomping, fast-talking New York gallery owner who helped find, popularize and market the Pop Artists of the 1960’s, including Andy Warhol, Roy Lichtenstein and Robert Rauschenberg. Later, Songero would show in international traveling shows with both Warhol and Lichtenstein, meeting such artists as Warhol, Willem de Kooning, Elaine de Kooning, and Betty Parsons in group shows he participated in at the Arts in Embassy Program and Frank Marino Gallery.

Songero made a life changing move leaving the art world disenchanted with the “hype and faddish world that art had become.” Songero descended into seclusion for almost thirty years only to return when prompted by friends, and a dealer and art promoter persuaded him to begin exhibiting his work once again. He has held a studio and continued to paint in his signature style in Chicago. He has taken elements of the New York school to move his individual vision and expression of action painting through a poured technique and signature style.

SSC Galleries are open at minimum Mondays through Thursdays from 9:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m., and Fridays from 9:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. The galleries are closed on weekends and holidays. The public is welcome to visit art exhibitions and receptions at no charge.

For more information, please call (708) 596-2000, ext. 2445 or visit www.ssc.edu/art. SSC is located at 15800 South State Street, South Holland, Illinois.

SOUTH HOLLAND, IL—Career Development System (CDS) is holding their 26^th annual College & Career Expo at South Suburban College (SSC) on Wednesday, September 23, 2015, from 5:00 p.m. – 7:30 p.m., in the Fitness Center.  The Expo is an excellent opportunity for 8^th grade, high school and SSC students, along with their parents, to explore a wide range of college and career options at one time, in one location.  Admission and parking are FREE and the event is conveniently located at SSC’s Main Campus in South Holland.

This cooperative venture is designed to provide the most current information available regarding post-secondary educational opportunities across the country.  More than 120 universities, colleges, technical school, armed forces, and construction trades will be featured.  Career programs available at SSC will be highlighted. Additionally, counselors will be on hand to help direct students and parents and Junior Achievement and ISAC (Illinois Student Assistance Corps) will be in attendance.

The College & Career Expo is open to all residents of the area who are interested in furthering their education.

For more information, visit the CDS website at: www.CareerDevelopmentSystem.org.  SSC is located 15800 South State Street, South Holland, Illinois.

SOUTH HOLLAND, IL–The South Suburban College non-credit Basic Nurse Assistant Training Program (CNA) is running a daytime cohort session from August 10th through October 1st at the Oak Forest Center. Successful completion of this non-credit course is required in order to become eligible to take the State of Illinois Nursing Assistant Certification Examination–SSC offers more contact hours for training than traditional CNA programs along with an additional free refresher course prior to this critical certification exam.

Instruction includes basic nursing skills through lecture, campus laboratory and supervised clinical experiences at a long-term health care facility. The classes meet at the Oak Forest Center on Mondays and Tuesdays from 8:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. with lab and clinical instruction rotating on Wednesdays and Thursdays from 8:00 a.m. – 1:30 p.m. or 7:00 a.m. – 2:30 p.m., respectively. Each individual who successfully passes the certification exam will then be placed on the State Registry for Health Care Workers.

Students must submit a health physical, proof of health insurance or signed release of liability waiver, and completion of a fingerprint criminal history record. The total cost of the program is $1,299.99 which includes tuition, textbook/workbook, stethoscope and blood pressure cuff, gait belt and the cost of the state competency exam upon successful completion of the course. (Financial Aid cannot cover the cost of this program, nor the physical and background check.)

There will also be another round of fall sessions running in both the daytime and evening from October 19th through December 10th. Please call (708) 596-2000, ext. 2497 or email JMabry@ssc.edu for more information. The Oak Forest Center is located at 16333 South Kilbourn Avenue, Oak Forest, Illinois.

SSC is hosting a college-wide Open House on Thursday, August 6th from 4:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. at the Main Campus in South Holland. Visit www.ssc.edu for information about Open Houses, to access the Online Application, and to view the dynamic schedule.

Comprehensive open house schedule now set for new and current students.

SOUTH HOLLAND, IL–Open Registration for the Fall 2015 Semester at South Suburban College (SSC) is still in progress. Fall classes don’t begin until Monday, August 24th, giving current and prospective students plenty of time to become a student, get any financial aid in order, and choose classes to meet their needs. The college has set a comprehensive open house schedule to further help students make critical choices about their future.

SSC’s upcoming College-Wide Open House–scheduled for August 6th–is the perfect opportunity for first time students to learn about the college’s wide range of programs and services. It will include a variety of tours and demonstrations, and prospective students 18 and over will be entered in an Open House Raffle for a trip for two to any concert of their choice in the Continental U.S. (excluding Multiple Day Festivals), Round Trip Airfare for two, overnight hotel stay and $500 spending cash.

The complete open house schedule is as follows:

Echocardiography Open House
Tuesday, July 21st, 10 a.m. – 2 p.m., Main Campus, Atrium, AUnderwood@ssc.edu

Medical Assistant & Phlebotomy Open House
Tuesday, July 21st, 12 noon – 2 p.m., Main Campus, Atrium, AUnderwood@ssc.edu

Emergency Medical Technician Open House
Tuesday, July 21st, 12 noon – 2 p.m., Main Campus, Atrium, AUnderwood@ssc.edu

Child Development Center Open House
Wednesday, August 5th, 3 p.m. – 8 p.m., Main Campus, L233, RBlisset@ssc.edu

SSC College-Wide Open House
Thursday, August 6th, 4 p.m. – 8 p.m., Main Campus, Atrium, www.ssc.edu

Paralegal Open House
Tuesday, August 11th, 6 p.m. – 7:30 p.m., Oak Forest Center, Room 5190, JCieslik@ssc.edu

SSC is also now offering a Free Class to first time credit students residing in District 510, Lake County, IN, or those who qualify for the Chicago Regional Rate. The Free Class applies to tuition only, and does not apply to courses of more than 5 credit hours. Individuals must not be receiving any state or federal financial aid or employer subsidies. More information is available at www.ssc.edu/freeclass

Contact the Office of Admissions at (708) 210-5718 for enrollment information. SSC’s Main Campus is located at 15800 South State Street, South Holland, Illinois. The Oak Forest Center is located at 16333 South Kilbourn Avenue, Oak Forest, Illinois.

College-Wide Open House coming to South Holland August 6^th and a Free Class also is now available to first time credit students.

SOUTH HOLLAND, IL–Open Registration for the Fall 2015 Semester at South Suburban College (SSC) is in progress. Fall classes begin Monday, August 24^th at the college’s Main Campus and Oak Forest Center. SSC will also host a College-Wide Open House on August 6^th from 4 p.m. – 8 p.m. featuring tours, demonstrations, and information about the college’s wide range of options, programs and student services. Prospective students 18 and over will be entered in an Open House Raffle for a trip for two to any concert of their choice in the Continental U.S. (excluding Multiple Day Festivals), Round Trip Airfare for two, overnight hotel stay and $500 spending cash.

SSC is now offering a Free Class to first time credit students residing in District 510, Lake County, IN, or those who qualify for the Chicago Regional Rate. The Free Class applies to tuition only, and does not apply to courses of more than 5 credit hours. Individuals must not be receiving any state or federal financial aid or employer subsidies. More information is available at www.ssc.edu/freeclass.

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

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

The complete upcoming open house schedule at SSC is as follows:

• Non Credit CNA–Basic Nurse Assistant Training Open House, Wednesday, July 15^th, 11 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. and 4 p.m. – 5:30 p.m., Main Campus Atrium, JMabry@ssc.edu
• Court Reporting Program Open House, Thursday, July 16^th, 7:00 p.m. – 8:30 p.m., Oak Forest Center Room 5190, LCooke@ssc.edu
• Child Development Center Open House, Wednesday, August 5^th, 3 p.m. – 8 p.m., Main Campus L233, RBlisset@ssc.edu
• SSC College-Wide Open House, August 6^th, 4 p.m. – 8 p.m., Main Campus, ssc.edu
• Paralegal Open House, Tuesday, August 11^th, 6 p.m. – 7:30 p.m., Oak Forest Center Room 5190, JCieslik@ssc.edu

Contact the Office of Admissions at (708) 210-5718 for enrollment information. SSC’s Main Campus is located at 15800 South State Street, South Holland, Illinois.  The Oak Forest Center is located at 16333 South Kilbourn Avenue, Oak Forest, Illinois.

SOUTH HOLLAND, IL–The PAC Rats Theatre Company of South Suburban College will hold open auditions for the hilarious Rick Abbot comedy, Play On! The auditions will take place on July 8th and 9th beginning at 7:00 p.m. Readings will be held in the Kindig Performing Arts Center on the college’s Main Campus at 15800 S. State Street in South Holland, IL.

Amateur dramatics takes a good-natured ribbing in this behind-the-scenes comedy about the perils of community theatre. A theatre troupe is mounting of a local playwright’s original murder mystery. With no royalty fees to pay, the company thinks it got a great deal until the playwright continues to interrupt the rehearsal process with constant rewrites and changes. To add to the problems, the cast and crew are starting to get on each other’s nerves. Act I is a rehearsal of the dreadful show with bickering actors, bumbling crew and backstage romances in full swing; Act II is the near disastrous dress rehearsal, and the final act is opening night where anything that can go wrong does.

Director Catherine Hundt of Thornton, will cast 10 ensemble actors of all colors and sizes, ranging in age from 18 to 70 plus. Hundt is planning evening rehearsals. Performances are scheduled for September 18, 19, 25, 26, 27, 2015.

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. Copies of the script are on reserve in the SSC Library. Everyone is welcome to attend both auditions. Auditioners must also be prepared to list all conflicts with the rehearsal schedule.

In addition to acting talent, the PAC Rats are also looking for volunteers who want to try their hands backstage. “Putting on a play takes a lot of hands,” said Hundt. “We hope that those who aren’t ready to step on stage will enjoy painting and building scenery, sewing costumes or making 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 HOLLAND, IL– Last Thursday, Mike Monaghan, Executive Director of the Illinois Community College Trustees Association (ICCTA), attended the South Suburban College (SSC) Regular Meeting of the Board of Trustees to acknowledge a distinction of service with a “very special award,” according to Monaghan. Monaghan presented an ICCTA Service Award to SSC Trustee Tony DeFilippo.

Monaghan addressed the Board of Trustees and gathered audience during the open meeting: “The ICCTA would like to recognize Tony DeFilippo for his 25 years of dedicated service as a Trustee of South Suburban College, Community College District 510. We are not only recognizing Trustee DeFilippo’s length of tenure, but also the quality of the years he has served our statewide system.”

Monaghan added, “Tony was 1 of 46 first time, newly elected trustees in 1990 and is 1 of only 2 of those 46 who are still serving the statewide system.” Furthermore, since 1965, there have been more than 2,200 trustees elected, and only 23 are still serving with 25 or more years of service—Tony is in that top 1% along with your board chair Frank Zuccarelli.”

Trustee DeFilippo, a Calumet City resident, works as a registered pharmacist and is responsible for the advancement of medical education and clinical trial opportunities at academic and medical centers. He serves in this capacity throughout the country. On the board level, DeFilippo serves as the SSC’s finance chair, a role he has filled for nearly his entire tenure while the college has collected 24 consecutive COE awards for excellence in financial reporting from the Association of School Business Officials (ASBO). The COE (Certificate of Excellence) is one of the highest recognitions a college can receive for their audited financial statements, confirming the school’s commitment to financial accountability and transparency.

“I would like to thank the ICCTA for this special honor and especially Mike Monaghan for taking the time to come to South Holland to present this award to me tonight,” said DeFilippo upon receiving the award. “I’m truly honored, but this isn’t about one person—this is an award that recognizes everyone in this room and all those over the years who dedicated themselves to this college, our students and our mission.”

Established in 1927, South Suburban College is a fully accredited, comprehensive community college with a diverse annual student population of more than 16,000. Located in South Holland, Illinois, SSC offers over 100 educational and career pathways through associate degree, certificate and transfer programs.

SOUTH HOLLAND, IL–South Suburban College’s Continuing Education Department is offering a variety of non-credit classes for area residents of all ages and interests. A new schedule of classes in areas such as creative arts, computers, professional development, and much more will begin June 20th and later at the Main Campus in South Holland and the Oak Forest Center (OFC).

The following classes represent only a portion of the available selections this summer:

ART E65-Textile Art Décor
Fee: $49
Using a variety of fabrics, students will learn how to create a unique piece of artwork. This workshop will explore textile variations, colors, and unlimited creativity with fabric. There is an additional charge of $20 to be paid to instructor for frame materials on the first night of class. Also, students will be instructed what type of fabric to purchase during the first class.

BUS E03–Trade Worldwide in Nine Weeks
Fee: $95
Students will learn what it takes to be self-employed in import or export (or both) of goods or services with this step-by-step hands-on nine week seminar delivered over the internet. Learn how to develop your product or service, find the best suppliers, best customers, work with banks, currency issues, insurance companies, government agencies and other trade entities. Weekly live sessions online and after the formal nine weeks’ course. Required textbook must be purchased online from instructor.

EDU C18–Substitute Teaching as an Observational Career Path
Fee: $119, Prerequisite: EDU C17
This course is suitable for students considering substitute teaching as a career path or for current practitioners desiring to upgrade their teaching skills. It provides students with an opportunity to conduct classroom observations in elementary, middle and high school settings and to discuss learning outcomes observed in those classrooms. Students are responsible for their own placement and for individual school district requirements to visit and observe in classrooms to fulfill course requirements. Upon completion of both the seminar and the class a certificate of completion will be issued.

FDS E10–Food Service Certification
Fee: $119
This course is designed to assist the manager or potential manager of any food service operation to apply food service sanitation. Topics to be included are sanitation and health, sanitary food and food handling, safe food environment, sanitation and the customer, and sanitation management. Students must attend all class sessions-to be eligible to take exam. Once licensed, course must be taken every five years as part of the license renewal process. Required textbook is available in the college bookstore and must be purchased before first class meeting

Continuing Education at SSC is also offering courses to help fill the summer days with activities that will entertain and challenge children and young adults. The majority of the College for Kids classes scheduled for this summer will begin the week of June 22nd. In addition, SSC will offer a Jam Session Day Camp for $329, beginning on June 29, 2015. This four-week summer school program is less than $5 per hour for academics and fun enrichment programs three days a week.

Students with classes totaling $100 or more may be eligible for the FACTS deferred tuition payment plan. Access class schedule online from www.ssc.edu to search the Summer Continuing Education Schedule, or call (708) 596-2000, ext. 2231.

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 on the Main Campus on Wednesdays and Thursdays from 4:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m. from June 3rd through June 18th in Room 1243c. The tutor training is an 18-hour program that culminates with literacy training certification. 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 in Oak Forest, Glenwood-Lynwood Library, Harvey Public Library, Phoenix Library, Calumet City Public Library, Grande Prairie Library in Hazel Crest, Homewood Public Library, South Holland Public Library, South Suburban College Library in South Holland, Oak Forest Center Library, 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.

Volunteers must register for the volunteer tutor training class by June 2, 2015. If you would like to volunteer or if you know someone who would benefit from tutoring services, please contact LaKisha Hillard, M. Ed, Coordinator of the Adult Volunteer Literacy Program, at (708) 596-2000, ext. 2558, or email lhillard@ssc.edu. South Suburban College is located at 15800 S. State St., South Holland, Illinois.

SOUTH HOLLAND, IL – Illinois Imaging Services of Central Illinois is hosting a workshop for current and new home performance business owners at South Suburban College’s Oak Forest Center on Friday, May 29, 2015, from 10:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. The cost of $30 per person includes lunch.

The workshop will be conducted by Brian Kumer, Owner of Thermal Imaging Services. Kumer has also operated the Illinois Home Performance Building Science Hotline since 2012, talking with homeowners and HP contractors about a variety of issues. This workshop is a result. Topics will include:

• Updating your Home Performance business plan
• Marketing your services
• Generating and following up on leads
• Educating your clients about making good, cost effective improvements
• Training your employees about running a green business
• Asking for and closing the sale
• Networking

Kumer says, “Stop leaving money on the table and generate more revenue per job!”

This workshop is brought to you through Illinois Home Performance with funding from Illinois Energy Now, an energy efficiency program administered by the State of Illinois Department of Commerce & Economic Opportunity Energy and Recycling Office.

The Oak Forest Center is located at 16333 S. Kilbourn Avenue, Oak Forest, Illinois. Email Nburrows@ssc.edu with questions or for registration information, or register directly online: https://events.r20.constantcontact.com/register/eventReg?oeidk=a07eauo5g2p41c6c2f6&oseq=&c=&ch.

SOUTH HOLLAND, IL–South Suburban College (SSC) announces two Phi Theta Kappa student members were honored at the Phi Theta Kappa All-Illinois Academic Team Banquet held in Springfield, Illinois on Tuesday, April 28, 2015. Alejandro Gonzalez of Calumet City, Illinois, and Daniel Boulos of Dyer, Indiana, now alumni, were joined by SSC President Don Manning and Phi Theta Kappa Coordinator Joan Rosen in Springfield to receive their recognitions.

Gonzalez is now majoring in Chemistry at Governors State University and Boulos has recently transferred on to Purdue University–Calumet where he is majoring in Computer Science.  Both students and competed for the All-USA Scholarship sponsored by Coca-Cola, along with students from every community college in Illinois.  While neither student won, they joined an elite team of Illinois community college students who are also members of Phi Theta Kappa, and “represented SSC with dignity, integrity and pride” according to Manning.

Established in 1927, South Suburban College is a fully accredited, comprehensive community college with a diverse annual student population of more than 15,000. With locations in South Holland and Oak Forest, Illinois, SSC offers instruction in more than 100 career paths leading to certificates and Associate Degrees and transferable credit.

For more information, please call (708) 596-2000 or visit www.ssc.edu.

50% discount for summer classes at Oak Forest Center for all students.

SOUTH HOLLAND, IL–Open Registration for the Summer 2015 Semester at South Suburban College (SSC) is still in progress. Summer classes begin Monday, June 8^th at the college’s Main Campus and Oak Forest Center. The summer payment deadline is Friday, May 22^nd and payment will be due at the time of registration after May 22^nd. SSC is also offering a special 50% discount for summer classes at the Oak Forest Center. The discount is only applicable at the Oak Forest Center in order to promote expanded offerings at this location, and is good for all credit classes on a first come, first served basis.

The summer session is an opportunity for students to begin or continue their college experience with SSC, or to come home from their four year institution to take additional credits conveniently and at a more affordable rate.

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

Current and prospective students are encouraged to complete their Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) now to increase opportunities for funding assistance, enroll early and create their preferred schedule at SSC. Visit www.fafsa.gov to apply for financial aid using institution code 001769. Students who wish to use financial aid as payment for summer classes must have an official high school or GED transcript on file, and must visit the Financial Aid Office to have funds applied to their account.  Official transcripts must have a school seal and graduation date on them.  Transcripts can be hand-delivered to the Admissions Office or mailed to:  Office of Admissions (15800 South State Street, South Holland, IL 60473). If a transcript is hand-delivered it must be in the original sealed, unopened envelope.

Contact the Office of Admissions at (708) 210-5718 for enrollment information. SSC’s Main Campus is located at 15800 South State Street, South Holland, Illinois.  The Oak Forest Center is located at 16333 South Kilbourn Avenue, Oak Forest, Illinois.

SOUTH HOLLAND, IL–On April 27, 2015, over 300 students were impacted by the Teacher for a Day partnership between South Suburban College (SSC) and Junior Achievement (JA) of Chicago. Administrators, faculty and students from the college partnered with Junior Achievement in celebration of their 75^th Anniversary. Junior Achievement has enjoyed a legacy in providing young people K-12 with economic education programs that focus on financial literacy, work readiness and entrepreneurship. Junior Achievement’s mission of educating and inspiring young people to succeed in a global economy is in alignment with the strategic direction of South Suburban College.

Having already reached hundreds of students within the south suburban area, at the request of Junior Achievement, SSC committed to impacting a city school. SSC adopted Orville T. Bright Elementary School (located at 10740 S. Calhoun, Chicago) for a day as part of the program. The school has 11 open classrooms. The SSC volunteers led discussions and guided hands-on activities to help students understand business and economics.

In additional to the learning activities, students were given the opportunity to meet higher education professionals who shared their educational and career paths. Two of the volunteers were SSC students: Janet Herrera (majoring in Criminal Justice) and Berenise Villagrana (majoring in Sociology).

“Efforts such as the Teacher for a Day help promote educational attainment beyond high school completion,” said Don Manning, SSC President, and member of the JA Board. “We value our relationship with Junior Achievement to engage young people at both the elementary and high school levels. We have the ability to expose these students to opportunities that may hopefully lead to the successful, rewarding careers they deserve in the future.”

Manning added that SSC looks forward to partnering with other non-profit organizations with similar initiatives that promote life-long learning.

Established in 1927, South Suburban College is a fully accredited, comprehensive community college with a diverse annual student population of more than 15,000. With locations in South Holland and Oak Forest, Illinois, SSC offers instruction in more than 100 career paths leading to certificates and Associate Degrees and transferable credit.

For more information, please call (708) 596-2000 or visit www.ssc.edu

SOUTH HOLLAND, IL–South Suburban College’s Office of Continuing Education and STEM Department are partnering to offer courses to help fill the summer days with activities that will inspire and challenge kids and young adults. SSC is pleased to offer several STEM for Kids classes at the Main Campus in South Holland in June and July for grade school and high school students:

Graphic Design
Cost: $75 includes materials; open to 9th-12th grade students
Monday through Thursday, June 22-25, 12:00 noon – 3:00 p.m., Main Campus Room, 4431 
Graphic design is a class that teaches art, design and technology. In this class students will use design as a creative process in communication. Students will also explore various methods used to create and combine words, symbols, and images to create a visual representation of ideas and messages. Students will use the basic elements and principles of art and also learn how to use the basics of an Apple Macintosh (MAC) computer and computer programs: Adobe Illustrator and Adobe Photoshop CS6. This class teaches the basics of Graphic Design through an illustrative and corporate view.

PC Repair and Home Wi-Fi Installation
Cost: $50 includes materials; open to 9th-12th grade students
Monday through Thursday, June 29-July 2, 1:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m., Main Campus, Room 3348
Students will be introduced to the major components of a computer, how to upgrade memory, test electrical voltage in the computer, and ensure their home wall voltage outlets meet electrical standards for computers use. The students will learn the importance of certified network/Internet cables and proper installation with certification testing equipment. Students will install a home Wi-Fi router, connect an iPad to a network, setup email, and communicate with their fellow students.

2-D and 3-D Design
Cost: $75 includes materials; open to 5th-12th grade students
Tuesday through Thursday, July 7-July 9, 12:00 noon – 4:00 p.m., Main Campus, Room 2368
Students will be introduced to the field of Computer-Aided Design and Drafting; including 2D and 3D prototyping. Students will use AutoCad AutoDesk 2013 software as well as other types of software available. Students will plan and create a mechanical or architectural design.

Robotics and Electronics
Cost: $75 includes materials; open to 5th-12th grade students
Monday through Thursday, July 13-16, 1:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m., Instructor will meet students inside Main Campus Student Entrance
Students will be introduced to a variety of topics related to Robotics and Electronics such as design, programming, artificial intelligence (AI) and building. This class will teach students how to build a robot using the fundamentals from electrical and mechanical engineering and computers.

First time non-credit students should visit the Admissions Office, Room 2348, or call Continuing Education at (708) 596-2000 ext. 2231 to get started. For questions about these classes or STEM programs at SSC, please contact Anna Helwig, STEM Dean, at (708) 210-5706.

SOUTH HOLLAND, IL – The South Suburban College Sustainability Committee is pleased to announce its 5th annual Earth Awareness Day to be held on Tuesday, April 28, 2015, from 9:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m. at the Main Campus in South Holland. All of the Earth Awareness Day presentations and activities are completely free of charge and open to the public.

The Cook County Environmental Control will also be hosting a prescription drug take-back throughout the day in the Atrium (including: liquids, inhalers and mercury thermometers; excluding: controlled substances, needles and syringes), and there will be an e-waste collection for used electronics and computers conducted by the Keeling Family Foundation and the VetTech.US Program.

The Earth Awareness Day presentation schedule is as follows:

9:30 a.m. Sustainability: What Sand Ridge Center has to Offer

11:00 a.m. The Tim Heppner Artist Studio

12:30 p.m. Growing Minds, Shrinking Runoff: Rain Gardens at SSC

2:00 p.m. AFT Speaker: Bluegreen Alliance

The Sustainability Committee was established in 2011 to coordinate SSC’s efforts in sustainability leadership within its community, and has adopted the following vision statement:

South Suburban College strives to be a leader in sustainability efforts. This mission is achieved in several ways. College initiatives include, but are not limited to, renovating College buildings for energy efficiency, purchasing a percentage of renewable energy and eco-friendly products, encouraging campus programs that incorporate reducing, reusing and recycling, providing contemporary training for the green economy and supplying sustainability information and forums to the College district. Our most important goal is to educate our staff and students to practice environmental stewardship at home and in the community.

SSC’s Main Campus is located at 15800 South State Street, South Holland, Illinois. For more information, please call (708) 210-5757.

SOUTH HOLLAND, IL–South Suburban College (SSC) with the assistance of Career Development System (CDS) hosted the 8th Annual South Suburban College Video Competition on Thursday, April 2, 2015, in the Kindig Performing Arts Center. The competition showcases talent from area high schools as well as provides students with a tour of the college’s facilities, featuring the television studio/control room, audio studio/control room, and multimedia lab.

“The competition is a great opportunity for high school students and their parents to see the new technology we have throughout the facilities,” said SSC Communication Instructor John Geraci.
“The turn-out for the event was great and the skill level continues to exceed my expectations every year.”

Eight local high schools submitted entries to the competition including Bremen, Eisenhower, Hillcrest, Oak Forest, Richards, Thornton Township, Thornwood, and Tinley Park. Students entered work in seven different categories: Commercial, PSA, Short Subject, Music Video, Creative Editing, News Story or Feature, and News Program. The 61 entries were judged on aesthetic quality, technical quality, program design and overall effectiveness.

SSC Assistant Vice President of Academic Services and Institutional Effectiveness Ronald Kawanna, Jr. was inspired by the students’ creativity. “Events like our High School Video contest remind us why we are all here,” Kawanna stated. “Our future will depend on these young students, and our future looks bright if this is a demonstration of things to come.”

In addition to the student awards, high schools competed among each other for the Regional Award of Distinction. Hillcrest High School won this award, having the highest average score per entry.

Michael Lynch (Communication Arts and Technology Instructor for District 228) said, “The creativity and work ethic of the Hillcrest students this year is the reason for their success. We concentrate on storytelling in the program, and this year’s Hillcrest crew took the elements of storytelling to another level.”

The student awards for each category are as follows:

Commercial: First Place, “Honda” – Bremen; Second Place, “Ike’s Next Top Anchor” – Eisenhower; Third Place, “Nike” – Bremen.

PSA: First Place, “Signs” – Bremen; Second Place, “Drugs Destroy Futures” – Eisenhower; Third Place, “R.C.H.A.” – Eisenhower.

Short Subject: First Place, “Romeo and Nope-iet” – Bremen; Second Place, “The Joneses” – Bremen; Third Place (tie), “Disconnection” – Hillcrest, “Trapped” – Bremen.

Music Video: First Place, “A Fire Love” – Hillcrest; Second Place, “Keep It Moving” – Thornton Township; Third Place, “Give Me Love” – Eisenhower.

Creative Editing: First Place, “Still I Rise” – Thornton Township; Second Place, “Stop the Violence” – Eisenhower; Third Place, “Never Give Up” – Thornton Township.

News Story or Feature: First Place, “Motown Showdown” – Thornwood; Second Place, “Freshman Tips” – Thornwood; Third Place, “R.M.H.C.” – Eisenhower.

News Program: First Place, “Friday Flash” – Eisenhower; Second Place, “Millennial Monthly” – Tinley Park; Third Place, “Hawkscast Winter 2015 Edition” – Hillcrest.

SOUTH HOLLAND, IL– South Suburban College will be hosting several upcoming program-specific Open Houses to inform prospective and current students about programs, curriculum and careers. The current Open House schedule at both the Main Campus in South Holland and the Oak Forest Center is as follows:

Echocardiography Program Open House
Wednesday, April 15, 2:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m., Main Campus Atrium
zharoun@ssc.edu

Court Reporting Program Open Houses
Thursday, April 23, 7:00 p.m. – 8:30 p.m., Room 5190, Oak Forest Center
Thursday, July 16, 7:00 p.m. – 8:30 p.m., Room 5190, Oak Forest Center
lcooke@ssc.edu

Music Department Open House
Tuesday, April 28, 5: 00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m., Room 1137, Main Campus
gchou@ssc.edu

Law Day (Paralegal, Criminal Justice, and Court Reporting)
Friday, May 1, Main Campus
10:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m., LIVE First District Appellate Court Case, Performing Arts Center
12 noon – 2:00 p.m., Demonstrations in the Atrium and MB Financial Bank Business Suite
lawday@ssc.edu

Non Credit CNA–Basic Nurse Assistant Training Open Houses
Wednesday, April 29, 11:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. and 4:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m., Main Campus Atrium
Wednesday, July 15, 11:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. and 4:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m., Main Campus Cafeteria
jmabry@ssc.edu

Engineering Programs Open House (CAD, AET, and EET)
Tuesday, April 28, 6:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m., MB Financial Bank Business Suite, Main Campus
This Open House was originally planned for April 14 but has been rescheduled for April 28.
ahelwig@ssc.edu

Paralegal Open House
Tuesday, May 19, 6:00 p.m. – 7:30 p.m., Room 5190, Oak Forest Center.
jcieslik@ssc.edu

Open Registration for the Summer 2015 Semester at South Suburban College (SSC) is now in progress. Summer classes begin Monday, June 8th at the college’s Main Campus and Oak Forest Center. The summer session allows students to begin or continue their college experience with SSC, or to come home from their four year institution to take additional credits conveniently and at a more affordable rate. SSC is also offering a special 50% discount for summer classes at the Oak Forest Center. The discount is only applicable at the Oak Forest Center in order to promote expanded offerings at this location, and is good for all credit classes on a first come, first served basis.

Contact the Office of Admissions at (708) 210-5718 for enrollment information or visit ssc.edu. SSC’s Main Campus is located at 15800 South State Street, South Holland, Illinois. The Oak Forest Center is located at 16333 South Kilbourn Avenue, Oak Forest, Illinois.

SOUTH HOLLAND, IL–The Art & Design Department of South Suburban College (SSC) is pleased to announce three new exhibitions in the galleries of the college’s Main Campus in South Holland:

Laura Colby, Recent Works
An exhibition of paintings by artist Laura Colby is on display in the Lee Dulgar Gallery through the closing reception on Thursday, April 16th at 12 noon.

Robert Pollard, Brave and Old Fashioned
An exhibition of “fine” art by artist Robert Pollard is on display in the Dorothea Thiel Gallery through the closing reception on Tuesday, April 21st at 12:30 p.m.

Michael Coakes, Illusions of Psyche
An exhibition of photographs by artist Michael Coakes is on display in the Photo Four Gallery through the closing reception on Wednesday, April 22nd at 12:00 noon.

The Lee Dulgar Gallery is located on the first floor near the college Atrium, and the Dorothea Thiel and Photo Four Galleries are located on the 4th floor in the Art & Design hallway. SSC Galleries are open at minimum Mondays through Thursdays from 9:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m., and Fridays from 9:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. The galleries are closed on weekends and holidays. The public is welcome to visit art exhibitions and receptions at no charge.

For more information, please call (708) 596-2000, ext. 2445 or visit www.ssc.edu/art. SSC is located at 15800 South State Street, South Holland, Illinois.

SOUTH HOLLAND, IL – The South Suburban College Legal Studies Department will host their second annual Law Day on Friday, May 1, 2015. This year’s event will feature a special live court case. Oral arguments for a real criminal First District Appellate Court case will be heard in the Performing Arts Center. This is a rare opportunity for the community to observe the First District at work at an off-site location. The general public–especially educators and students–is encouraged to attend this unique opportunity to witness some of the area’s most talented, professional litigators in action.

Opening remarks will begin at 10:00 a.m. Following the arguments, the audience will have an opportunity to ask questions of the Appellate Prosecutor and Appellate Defender. The justices will return to the PAC for another question and answer session at approximately 11:30 a.m.

Attendees are welcome to stay for a Mock Crime Scene Demonstration from12 noon–2:00 p.m. in the Atrium of the Main Campus, as well as a Court Reporting Demonstration from 12 noon–2:00 p.m., in the Heritage Room.

This event also provides guests with an opportunity to find out more about educational and career opportunities in the judicial field, and to learn about SSC’s Paralegal, Court Reporting and Criminal Justice programs.

For more information about Law Day, or to RSVP for the day’s events, please email LawDay@ssc.edu or contact Jason M. Cieslik, J.D., Paralegal Coordinator, at (708) 596-2000, ext. 2579.

SOUTH HOLLAND, IL–South Suburban College will host their second annual STEM Symposium on Friday, March 27, 2015, from 6:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m. at the college’s Main Campus in South Holland. Students and educators of all levels are encouraged to attend this special event.

The STEM Symposium will feature a college and career expo related to STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics). The program will begin with welcome remarks from Congresswoman Robin Kelly followed by the evening’s Keynote presentation from Black Oaks Center for Sustainable Living. Additional speakers will be scheduled throughout the evening as well as ongoing programming in the college Atrium and Cafeteria including displays and exhibits from students and instructors, college STEM program tables, SSC lab tours, STEM professionals, and much more. There will also be a dedicated teacher-resource/demonstration area this year.

For more information, or to participate in the presentations and displays, please contact Anna Helwig, Ph.D., SSC Dean of Mathematics and Sciences, at (708) 210-5706 or ahelwig@ssc.edu.   SSC is located at 15800 South State Street, South Holland, Illinois.

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 on the Main Campus on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 4:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m. from March 24th 2015through April 9th 2015 in Room 1243c. The tutor training is an 18-hour program that culminates with literacy training certification. 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; 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.

If you would like to register for the volunteer tutor training class please register by March 23rd, 2015 or if you know someone who would benefit from tutoring services, please contact LaKisha Hillard, M. Ed, Coordinator of the Adult Volunteer Literacy Program, at (708) 596-2000, ext. 2558, or email lhillard@ssc.edu. South Suburban College is located at 15800 S. State St., South Holland, Illinois.

SOUTH HOLLAND, IL–South Suburban College (SSC) is pleased to announce that Gateways to Opportunity has approved South Suburban College as an entitled institution for the ECE Credentials, levels 2 and 3. As an entitled institution, students at SSC will now have the opportunity to qualify for these credentials as they take courses or complete their degree through the college’s Teacher Aide/Child Development Program. SSC is entitled for these Gateways to Opportunity Credentials through 2019.

“I am so excited that our students will have the added benefit of earning credentials while completing their education,” said Dr. Donna Walker, SSC Program Coordinator. “These credentials will greatly increase their employability in the childcare field.”

Gateways to Opportunity, Illinois Professional Development System, is designed to provide guidance, support and recognition to practitioners who serve children and families in Illinois. SSC is among a select group of institutions in Illinois to be entitled for the Gateways to Opportunity Credentials. All Gateways to Opportunity Credentials have competencies that reflect multiple professional standards, including National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC) and the Illinois Professional Teaching Standards. The Teacher Aide/Child Development faculty at SSC worked diligently to align their courses with the Gateways to Opportunity competencies.

In a time when Early Childhood Education is defining itself as a field that promotes professional development, SSC has become entitled to help further this goal by graduating students ready to provide quality care and education to young children.

SSC’s Teacher Aide/Child Development Program awards short-term certificates and an Associate Degree track, as well as preparing students for transfer to four-year colleges and universities. The program combines hands-on application and classroom experience using up-to-date curriculum, texts and new sources for field work. Two semester internships also provide students with valuable practical field experience. Admission requirements are detailed in the college catalog and online at www.ssc.edu. All of the Teacher Aide/Child Development instructors are educators with real experience, and all are credentialed with Masters or Doctorate Degrees.

Gateways to Opportunity is administered by the Illinois Network of Child Care Resource & Referral Agencies (INCCRRA). Visit the Gateways to Opportunity website at www.ilgateways.com today to learn more.

For additional information about the Teacher Aide/Child Development Program, please contact Dr. Walker at (708) 596-2000, ext. 2659. SSC is located at 15800 South State Street, South Holland, Illinois.

SOUTH HOLLAND, IL–South Suburban College will be hosting an Allied Health & Career Programs Open House on Thursday, March 5^th from 3:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m. in the Atrium of the Main Campus in South Holland. Instructors and students will be on hand to answer questions about the curriculum, program requirements, field of work and job outlook.

The Allied Health & Career Programs Open House will showcase SSC’s wide range of health-related programs that can lead to rewarding careers in two years or less. These programs include Child Development, Community Health Worker, Coding Specialist, Diagnostic Medical Sonography (Ultrasound), Echocardiography, Emergency Medical Services, Emergency Medical Technician, Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI), Medical Assistant, Nanoscience Technology, Occupational Therapy Assistant, Pharmacy Technician, Phlebotomy, Radiologic Technology, and Speech Language Pathology Assistant.

For more information about the Allied Health & Career Programs Open House, please call (708) 596-2000, ext. 2258 or email GRaimbault@ssc.edu. South Suburban College’s Main Campus is located at 15800 S. State St., South Holland, Illinois. Visit SSC online at www.ssc.edu or contact the Admissions Office at (708) 210-5718 to schedule a campus tour.

SOUTH HOLLAND, IL –The Art and Design Department of South Suburban College is currently displaying its 20th annual SSC Regional High School Student Art Exhibit through the closing Art Festival Day on February 27th.

The exhibition includes 22 regional high schools districts from Illinois and Indiana. Approximately 300 pieces of student artwork is on display in the galleries and display cases of the Art and Design Department on SSC’s Main Campus. In addition to the high school student artwork, the high school art faculty will be displaying their artwork for their bi-annual High School Faculty Exhibition in the Lee E. Dulgar Gallery, located on the first floor.

The exhibitions will culminate on Friday, February 27th with all of the participating high school students and teachers on campus for a visiting artist lecture, a gallery crawl reception, and demonstrations in various art studios. The festival begins in the Performing Arts Center at 10:00 a.m. with opening remarks, followed by guest artist Tim Arroyo, a Chicago photographer, who will provide a presentation of his artwork and life experiences in the art world. Special remarks will also be given by Jocelyn Prue, Director of White Ripple Gallery in Hammond, IN. Ms. Prue is the juror of this year’s High School Art Exhibition. An awards presentation for the high school students’ artwork will follow. Several businesses, including Jimmy Johns of South Holland, Dick Blick Art Materials, Inc., and Great Lakes Clay, Inc. are sponsoring the awards. Additionally, two art merit scholarships from the Offices of the President and Vice President of Academic Services of South Suburban College will be presented.

Afternoon activities include a gallery reception crawl for the high school students with Mr. Arroyo. The SSC Art Faculty will also conduct demonstrations in the Digital Graphic Arts Studio, Painting Studio, Ceramics Studio and bronze casting in the Sculpture Atelier. The day’s events will conclude at 2:00 p.m.

The Art and Design Department of SSC is located on the fourth floor, Northeast section of the South Holland campus. The Dorothea Thiel and Photo-Four Galleries are both located within the Art and Design studio complex. The public is cordially invited to attend the exhibition and festival free of charge. Regular gallery hours are Monday through Friday 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. The galleries are closed on weekends and college holidays.

For more information, contact Jack Kirkpatrick, Chairman of the SSC Art & Design Department at (708) 596-2000, ext. 2445.

SOUTH HOLLAND, IL–The South Suburban College Foundation (SSCF) 2015 Scholarship Books and Applications are now available in the President’s Office (Room 2134), the Financial Aid Office (2355) and online at www.ssc.edu/foundation. The SSC Financial Aid Office is also encouraging all prospective and current students to complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) soon to increase opportunities for funding assistance; visit www.fafsa.gov using school code 001769.

The primary SSC scholarship application deadline is Friday, March 27, 2015, while graduating high school seniors can continue to apply for “SSCF High School Scholarships” and “SSC Board of Trustees Scholarships” throughout the spring and summer months. The scholarships may be used for next summer, fall and spring semesters at SSC. The application process is a simple one that only requires a completed scholarship application, one letter of recommendation, a short essay, and a copy of the applicant’s high school or college transcripts.

A wide range of scholarships are offered for incoming high school students, current SSC students, and returning adults with qualifications that may be related to academic achievement, community involvement, place of residence, program interest, and much more. Last year the SSCF awarded over $100,000 in scholarships and has now awarded over $1.6 million since 1989. In addition, SSC offers a variety of tuition waivers.

For more information, please call (708) 596-2000, ext. 2463, or email foundation@ssc.edu. South Suburban College’s Main Campus is located at 15800 S. State St., South Holland, Illinois. SSC’s Oak Forest Center is located at 16333 S. Kilbourn, Oak Forest, Illinois.