South Holland, IL – Thirty-nine scholars attended the inaugural One Million Degrees (OMD) Welcome Event at South Suburban College (SSC) on Wednesday, September 18, 2024. OMD, a renowned community college student success program, supports scholars on their journey to meaningful careers. The program is delivered through SSC’s Multicultural Wellness Center, which began offering OMD support in the Fall semester.

SSC successfully recruited nearly 50 African American and Hispanic male students, all maintaining a GPA of 2.0 or higher, for participation in the OMD program. These scholars benefit from monthly professional development workshops, regular check-ins with a Success Advisor, and coaching that provides encouragement, guidance, and vital professional connections. To maximize the program’s offerings, scholars are encouraged to participate in study groups, tutoring sessions, and additional academic support services provided by the college. Students in the program are also eligible to earn monetary stipends as they reach key academic and personal milestones.

The Welcome Event created an energetic environment while creating opportunities for scholars to mingle with their peers and meet their coaches. The formal program opened with SSC President Dr. Lynette Stokes, who congratulated the scholars on their commitment to the program. SSC’s Director of Student Activities, Marcus Hilliard, followed with an inspiring message of hope, while Neal Spann, Sr., Manager of College Partnerships at OMD, shared his personal story of success as a former OMD scholar. The final speaker, Dr. Anissa Jones, Dean of Student Development, engaged the scholars with reflective questions on their “why” in life, motivating them to think critically about their goals and aspirations.

After the motivational speeches, the scholars participated in icebreakers and a trivia activity, further building connections and excitement for the semester ahead. Students expressed enthusiasm about being involved in such a meaningful and transformative program.

As the OMD program moves forward, SSC is excited to witness the growth and transformation of these scholars as they navigate their paths toward academic success and fulfilling careers.

For more information about the One Million Degrees program at SSC, please contact Destinee Carter, Multicultural Wellness Center Success Advisor via email at wellness@ssc.edu or call (708) 596-2000 x2312.