The Workforce Empowerment Initiative (WEI) Grant and National Able Network co-hosted an employment fair in the Prairie State College Conference Center on Tuesday, August 19, from 10 a.m. to noon. Job seekers met with employers to explore openings, network with hiring professionals, and receive career-building support.  

On September 3, PSC students filled the Conference Center to explore clubs, community partners, transfer options, and more at the Prairie Connect Resource Fair. Attendees enjoyed free snacks while discovering new ways to get involved and maximize their college experience. Students who visited 12 or more tables and completed their event passport were rewarded with a custom PSC t-shirt.

The Adult Education Department hosted an Open House on Sept. 16 to celebrate National Adult Education and Literacy Week and National GED Day. The event highlighted student achievements and ways in which Adult Education staff and faculty support students. 

During the week of September 22, staff and students had the unique opportunity to explore the vital role of surgical technologists, who play a critical part in the operating room by ensuring patient safety and supporting surgical teams throughout procedures. The highlight of the week was an Open House hosted by the Surgical Technology Department on September 25, where attendees received a hands-on look at the tools, techniques, and responsibilities involved in this essential healthcare profession.

External Affairs is partnering with an outside firm to improve internal wayfinding signage across campus, making it easier for students and visitors to navigate larger buildings. The project is currently on pause as final elements - braille lenses and building directory signs - are in production. Our team is also reviewing floor map designs to ensure accuracy before proceeding with the installation.

Dr. Anthony and Dr. Jeri Bingham, along with leadership from Chicago State University, recently met with Democratic congressional aides in the offices of Congressman Steny Hoyer (MD) and Senator Tammy Duckworth (IL) to discuss federal funding for Minority Serving Institutions, with a focus on Predominantly Black Institutions (PBIs). Both offices expressed strong support for PBIs and affirmed their commitment to advancing our initiatives and ensuring these institutions remain a priority in Congress. 

Congresswoman Robin Kelly extended a special invitation to Dr. Anthony to represent Prairie State College on a distinguished panel held on Capitol Hill during Congressional Black Caucus Week in Washington, D.C. The event brought together Democratic and Republican legislators to engage with presidents of Predominantly Black Institutions (PBIs), including Prairie State College, Medgar Evers College, and Prince George’s Community College. 

Recently, Prairie State College showed its support at Silver Cross Hospital’s Fall Fiesta fundraiser at Rancho Los Guzman in Joliet. President Dr. Michael D. Anthony, Director of Nursing Antigone Kokalias, and Vice President for External Affairs Dr. Jeri Bingham participated in the evening’s festivities, featuring salsa dancing, horses, and a strong community spirit.

Prairie State College representatives attended Chicago State University’s 6th Annual 1stGEN Scholarship Gala: Determined on Friday, September 26, 2025, at The Geraghty. Dr. Isaiah Allen, Director of TRIO Upward Bound; Yvette McGhee, Assistant Dean; and Oshunda Carpenter Williams, Assistant Director of Financial Aid, represented PSC at the event.

Presented by Northern Trust, the gala supports scholarships that reduce financial barriers for first-generation students and advances CSU’s mission of educational equity as Illinois’ only four-year Predominantly Black Institution.

You are invited to attend the Annual Benefits & Wellness Fair as part of the 2026 Plan Year Open Enrollment, which runs from October 7 through October 17. The fair will be held on Thursday, October 9, 2025, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Proven IT Conference Center. 

Enjoy a scavenger hunt, vendor booths, a prize hour at 2 p.m., and more. The PSC Emergency Services Department will offer free Hands-Only Non-Certified CPR training sessions from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.. These sessions are limited to 30 participants each, require sign-up by September 22, and provide certificates upon completion. A sign-up sheet for full CPR certification will also be available after the sessions. Contact India Glasper, HR Manager for additional information. 

Did you know one of our colleagues is raising chickens right here in our community? Art Kreykes from Facilities has a small flock, and those hens are busy producing fresh eggs! Art sells them for $5 a dozen. If you are interested, please text him at (708) 879-4545.

We want to learn about the unique and creative things our colleagues are up to outside of work. If you have a cool side hobby, hidden talent, or passion project, please share it with us! Your story could be featured in a future issue of the employee newsletter.

Send your submissions to Crystal at calston@prairiestate.edu. 

On August 14, the PEACE Center had a total of 30 potential new OMD scholars attend one of two Information Sessions. The purpose of these sessions was to introduce the program and outline expectations for the upcoming year, should they choose to join. By the end of the session, all attendees committed to moving forward and scheduled their official scholar intake meeting to become part of this year's OMD cohort. 

On August 27, the PEACE Center hosted a one-time Zumba-style dance class in the Fitness Studio, open to all students, faculty, and staff. Led by Spanish GED professor Miguel Murillo, the beginner-level class featured popular Latin American rhythms and drew about 15 PSC students and staff. Attendees enjoyed the chance to engage in a fun, healthy, and stress-relieving activity. 

On Saturday, August 30, Celeste Garcia from the PEACE Center hosted a resource table at the annual St. Kieran/St. Agnes Parish Festival in Chicago Heights. The well-attended event featured folkloric dancers, vendors, food, and live entertainment. As the only invited community resource, our coordinator connected with numerous potential students and their families to share information about PSC enrollment and opportunities. 

On Thursday, September 11, the PEACE Center hosted nearly 50 of the 60 OMD scholars for this year’s kickoff event. The group heard from a former PSC student and current auditor, who shared his journey from PSC to earning his bachelor’s and master’s degrees at UIUC. He offered valuable advice on getting involved and utilizing campus resources to ease the transition to a four-year university.

Scholars also signed their agreements for the year, received key information about upcoming opportunities, and connected with one another through icebreaker activities.

On Tuesday, September 16, the PEACE Center hosted its annual Bienvenida event to welcome over 50 new Prairie State students. The event featured a guest speaker, a former PSC student now working in nursing, who shared his journey and encouraged students to stay motivated and pursue their academic goals. Celeste Garcia presented important information about resources, timelines, and financial aid guidelines to support student success. Attendees also participated in icebreakers to build community and learned more about the services offered by the PEACE Center. 

On Tuesday, September 23, in honor of Hispanic Heritage Month, members of the All Latin Alliance gave a presentation about Vaquero (Cowboy/Cowgirl culture) in the IT proven.  Student leaders will talk about the rich history and significance of charreria in countries like Mexico and how that has carried over into our American culture.   

Men's Soccer
After losing its first three games of the season, men's soccer currently has a 5-4-2 record with the bulk of its Illinois Skyway Collegiate Conference schedule ahead. Sitting at 4-1 inside the conference, PSC has a chance to take home the conference crown. Oliver Wazny leads a balanced Pioneers attack with four goals on the young season.

Women's Soccer
The Pioneers are off to a slow start with a 1-6 record in the early going.

Volleyball
PSC has won two of its last three matches but still sits at 3-9 in the early going. Vitoria Pinho leads the team with 93 kills. Sam De Laurentis has facilitated the offense with a team-high 

This month’s Student Spotlight shines on Faith Albert, the current Class President of the Student Chapter of the American Dental Hygienists' Association (SADHA), nominated by Desiree Schierholz for her outstanding dedication to the Dental Hygiene Program. Faith has gone above and beyond in her role by taking the lead in organizing multiple fundraising events to support her class’s upcoming board review. 

Desiree shared, "Beyond her leadership in fundraising, Faith is always the first to volunteer when help is needed. She leads by example, showing professionalism, teamwork, and a genuine care for her peers. Her dedication reflects the values of the dental hygiene profession and has had a lasting impact on both her classmates and the program as a whole."

Judge Iesha Gray, Presiding Judge of the Restorative Justice Community Court (RJCC), recently presented a Certificate of Completion to Prairie State College’s Workforce Development and Community Education (WDCE) team in recognition as an education and training provider through the Opportunity Works program.

Opportunity Works provides training, educational resources, and supportive services to justice-impacted individuals, helping them build pathways to education, employment, and long-term success. The certificate highlights PSC’s continued commitment to fostering second-chance opportunities through strong community partnerships like RJCC.

On August 26, Professor Brian Donovan received the Pioneer Award in recognition of his dedication, innovation, and unwavering commitment to student success since joining Prairie State College in 2009. Professor Donovan played a pivotal role in securing a National Science Foundation grant, helping to elevate the college’s profile and expand opportunities for students in computer information science and technology. He continues to lead by developing new courses and certificate programs in high-demand areas like network cybersecurity, ensuring our programs stay aligned with industry needs and student interests.

His students consistently praise his mentorship for inspiring confidence, shaping career goals, and fostering lifelong learning. Even while facing personal challenges this year, Professor Donovan’s resilience and passion for his students have remained steadfast.

Congrats to Charles Tate, a second-year sociology major, who was sworn in as our new student trustee! Charles is passionate about making a difference on campus and plans to attend an HBCU after he graduates. We’re excited to see the impact he'll make in this new role.