September/October 2023 Newsletter
Message from the President:
PSC Pioneers-
The campus atmosphere has been incredibly positive and exciting over the last month. From the Community Day Celebration, Pioneer Palooza, to our atrium ribbon cutting and Crocs Day - we have had many fun and engaging activities for our students, faculty, staff, and community. Although I was unable to attend the silent party, I heard it was a huge success, providing a much-needed break from the daily grind of school and work.
I want to extend my heartfelt gratitude to our incredible PSCreative Team for their exceptional planning and execution of this year's Homecoming events and those who contributed to the week’s success, including our dedicated Facilities Team and Police Department. Your commitment to our institution is deeply appreciated.
Let’s maintain this exciting energy as we approach midterms and enter the holiday season, my absolute favorite time of year.
Thank you so much for all you do. #wearepsc
Atrium Ribbon Cutting Ceremony
On October 18, PSC marked a significant milestone: the ribbon cutting for the newly renovated atrium! The renovation project will be completed in two phases, with phase I already completed. The atrium's transformation is set to unfold as we embark on the final phase, which is scheduled to begin this winter and extend through 2024. Some of the attendees for this event include:
Michelle Aldana, Trustee, Prairie State College
Alan Banks, Trustee, Village of Richton Park
Mia Carter, Outreach Manager, Office of Congresswoman Robin Kelly
Kim Kislowski, Vice President of Marketing, Chicago Southland Convention & Visitors Bureau
Mary Patchin, Vice President of Sales, Chicago Southland Convention & Visitors Bureau
Rick Reinbold, Mayor, Village of Richton Park
Joseph Roudez, Mayor, Village of University Park
Scott Rude, Chicago Southland Convention & Visitors Bureau
Dr. Johnnie Thomas, Superintendent, Rich Township High School District 227
Dr. Terri L. Winfree, President, Chicago Southland Chamber of Commerce, and former PSC President
Halloween Family Fun Fest
PSC's Halloween Family Fun Fest was a resounding success, drawing over 1000 participants from the community. Huge appreciation goes to the committee for their exceptional planning and execution. Gratitude also extends to the volunteers and the faculty, staff, and administration who contributed candy and giveaways, ensuring an abundance for all. #wearepsc (More photos to come.)
Thanks for your candy (giveaway) donations - You all are incredible!
Christa Adams, Roseanne Alcantar, Crystal Alston-Nobles , Jeri Bingham, Alisha Clark, Dianne DeSousa, Angela Hung, Melissa Hebert-Johnson, Tywanda Jiles, Cristina Lazard, Helen Manley, Andie McCaskill, Craig Mulling, Esther Pacheco, Lisa Pickens, Jennica Rodrigez, Charmaine Sevier, Brian Stanley, Cathy Svetanoff, Denita Williams, Elighie Wilson, and Juanita Wyatt. (If we excluded anyone, please email calston@prairiestate.edu.) We want to recognize everyone who made this night special.
Special thanks to the Division of Student Affairs and Marketing and Communications for their support in making this event possible.
Welcome Reception for Visiting Faculty
Rinny Bergsma was our visiting faculty from Heerveen, Netherlands (October 14-28). The Illinois Consortium sponsored her visit via the International Studies and Programs (ICISP), for which PSC is an institutional member. This innovative international exchange program matches U.S. faculty and administrators with counterparts from Finland and the Netherlands to engage in intercultural understanding, professional development, and promoting global understanding.
Community Celebration
On October 16, PSC hosted a Community Celebration to kickstart our 2nd annual homecoming festivities. The event featured food trucks, a car show, face painting, games, giveaways, and a touch-a-truck activity. The food trucks were enjoyed by all and were judged by 2x Food Network Champion, Executive Chef Camerron Dangerfield, Nutritionist and Celebrity Chef Eric Meredith, and Jessica Mancina, Director of Special Events, City of Chicago Heights. Despite the inclement weather, the event fostered community engagement and collaboration, along with the presence of Parker, our PSC mascot, who brought out warm smiles.
Homecoming Silent Day Party
Imagine going to a party with your friends, and each of you has a personal DJ so you can listen to whatever music you like without disturbing your friend who's grooving a few feet away or being bored by their tastes in music that counter your own. That was the exact atmosphere created by Urban Fetes for our on-campus silent party on October 19! Students enjoyed the ice cream provided by Zarlengo's Italian Ice and Gelato along with card games, Connect 4, and free t-shirts.
Purple Ribbon Campaign
Domestic Violence Awareness Month (DVAM) is observed every year in October to bring attention to the experiences of victims and provide awareness of the resources available. On October 17, Dr. Desirée Anderson presented purple ribbons in the atrium to students and faculty to demonstrate support for victims and advocates. The purple ribbon symbolizes courage, survival, honor, and dedication to ending domestic violence. If you or someone you know is experiencing abuse, call (800) 799-SAFE (7233) or text " START" to 8878.
Croc-tober at PSC
On Monday, October 23, Marketing and Communications team members walked around campus handing out PSC jibbitz to students and faculty rocking their Crocs on National Croc Day. Students and faculty loved adding custom charms to their shoes!
Opportunity Works Graduation
The Chicago Cook Workforce Partnership (The Partnership) and Cook County hosted a graduation on campus on October 11th for young adults who have completed an Opportunity Works internship over the past year.
Toni Preckwinkle, President of the Cook County Board of Commissioners, introduced The Opportunity Works initiative to the Cook County Board. PSC received its original award in 2019 of $202,500 to serve 45 District 515 students. Our 2023 award is just under $1,000,000 to serve 156 students. Opportunity Works is a workforce development program that provides career readiness and career pathway coaching, paid internships in interns' preferred career pathways, and supportive wraparound services. Our current PSC staff in Oppworks is as follows: Alisha Clark, Executive Director, WDCE; Dr. SaRrah Fridge, Program Manager; and Inez Mackey, Career Mentor. Congratulations to the graduates!
Pink-a-Boo Walk of Hope
The Prairie State Pioneers received the Top School Award at the Cancer Support Center’s 2023 Pink-A-Boo Walk of Hope on October 15th. The Cancer Support Center is an amazing facility that offers free services to those affected by cancer. We all know someone who has been on the cancer journey. Thanks to your generous donations and support, no one will have to walk the journey alone. #wearepsc #strongertogether
Congratulations to the raffle winners for the Garrett's Halloween Popcorn canisters - Mike Saldana and Michelle Guiliani! Thank you to everyone who supported the "Caramel for a Cause" Fundraiser on October 11 and the Walk of Hope on October 15.
Model Illinois Government Workshop
On October 20, the PSC Pre Law-Poli Sci Club hosted a Model Illinois Government Workshop. Students from PSC, Governors State University, Purdue University Northwest, and Roosevelt University attended. This workshop provided an opportunity for students to role play legislators, which included practicing parliamentary procedure and debating legislation. This workshop was designed to prepare students for the statewide Model Illinois Government held annually in the spring at the Capital. Next year's MIG will be February 29-March 3, 2024.
Behind the Mask Gala
PSC was a sponsor for the Behind the Mask Gala, celebrating the 10th anniversary of the iCan Dream Center. The organization works with students with learning disabilities, autism, and other challenges (Pre-K-12th grade)—special thanks to Oshunda Williams for attending on behalf of the College. #wearePSC
Keeping Dreams Alive Sneaker Ball
Prairie State College was a sponsor for the 2023 Keeping Dreams Alive Sneaker Ball benefitting Anew: Building Beyond Violence and Abuse, a non-profit organization that provides services to families affected by domestic violence. The event was held on October 6 at the Olympia Fields Country Club. Members from the Divisions of Student Affairs and External Affairs were in attendance. Pictured from left to right are Juanita Wyatt (TRIO Student Support Services), Cristina Lazard (Marketing and Communications), Sistina Taela (Enrollment Services), and Dr. Bernard Little (Student Affairs).
Department Participation Needed for Open House:
The Fall 2023 Open House is on Saturday, November 11, 2023, from 10 a.m. to noon, and we are looking for volunteers to promote their programs/services by having a table in the atrium or having labs open for attendees to visit. This is a great way to showcase all PSC offers to prospective students and their guests.
If you or someone from your department would like to attend and still need to RSVP, please get in touch with Beth Wyack at bwyack@prairiestate.edu. by Friday, November 3.
Human Resources
Annual Benefits Fair
Open Enrollment is approaching and will begin November 6, and all benefit forms must be in by November 30. Open Enrollment is an opportunity to make any changes to your benefits for the upcoming 2024 plan year. If you do not wish to make any changes, please complete the benefit form and indicate no changes. Please note: If enrolled in Flexible Spending Accounts, you must make elections each year; your current elections will not roll over into the new plan year. All completed benefit forms can be emailed to the Benefits Manager at iglasper@prairiestate.edu or dropped off in the Human Resources offices.
We will also have our Annual Benefits Fair for the 2024 plan year on Thursday, November 16, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. in the Proven IT Conference Room. We will have giveaways, pictures with Parker, and informational sessions with several vendors. Please join our informative sessions to learn about our benefits and ask questions.
The session times are as follows:
AM Session(s)
Room 1322: Sun Life, 11-11:30 a.m.
Room 1315: Legal Shield, 11:30 a.m. - Noon
Room 1322: Old National (403b/457b), Noon - 12:30 p.m.
PM Session(s)
Room 1322: Sun Life, 12:30 - 1 p.m.
Room 1315: Legal Shield, 1 - 1:30 p.m.
Room 1322: Old National (403b/457b), 1:30 - 2 p.m.
New Employees
Patricia Scott - Bagby
Administrative Assistant, Allied Health & Emergency Services
Celeste Garcia
Coordinator, LatinX Outreach & Retention
Employee Departures
Martin Cansino
Police Officer
Carmen Dover
Financial Aid
David Chapman
Graphic Designer, Marketing and Communications
EAP: Employee Assistance Program
Offered through Prairie State College, the Employee Assistance Program (EAP) is a voluntary, work-based program offering free and confidential assessments, short-term counseling, referrals, and follow-up services to employees with personal and work-related problems.
Employee News
Communication Department Trip to Northlight Theatre
On October 3, the Communication department, in association with Communication Day and through a generous gift from the Prairie State Foundation, was able to attend a performance of Birthday Candles at Northlight Theatre. Professors Joshua Green, Janine Stroemer, and Dana Trunnell were joined by students from their communication and theatre classes. The professors furnished them with study guides, and participated in a post-show discussion. This trip was a phenomenal learning experience for the students as they were exposed to professional regional theater. The show had a highly successful, sold-out run, and all appreciated the opportunity to attend.
Happy Anniversary
Thank you to all who stopped by the employee lounge on October 26 to celebrate those who started at PSC in the month of October and have been with the college for a year or longer. Happy anniversary to the following PSC Pioneers staff : Abdurraham Atlan, James Bodnick, Gabrielle Diestelmeier, Georgia Karras, Brandon Kruel, Helen Manley, James O' Banner, Michelle Rallins, Donna Rokicki, Medhat Shaibat, Jennifer Tirado, Aundrea Wilder, and Beth Wyack.
Door Decorating Contest Winner!
The winner of the Door/Window Decorating Contest is Judith Fonseca for Window Number 6. Thank you to all who participated and showed their PSC Spirit for Homecoming Week. Everyone did a great job!
Faculty Spotlight
Sisters with Superpowers!
Rolling Out Magazine welcomed in the class of 2023 Sisters with Superpowers – Chicago Edition on Thursday, October 26, 2023, at the luxury hotel, The Gwen, in Chicago’s bustling downtown. Among the honorees was Professor of Chemistry Dr. Christine Brooms. "Dr. Brooms stands out in academia as a Professor of Chemistry at Prairie State College. Her contributions to the world of science and education are a source of inspiration." More here! Congratulations Dr. Brooms! You ARE a Pioneer.
Lalinda De La Fuente
Associate Professor Lalinda De La Fuente (sociology) has been on sabbatical this fall, researching regional (and global) issues related to environmental justice and sustainability.
Her research focuses on various topics, including social justice, water, indigenous traditions, food systems, environmental racism, and health and wellness. It has taken her from the mountains of Thailand to the shores of the Mississippi River and the battered neighborhoods of Gary, Indiana.
More photos and information on the PSC Sustainability Facebook Page.
"Emily Stork, of Indiana DNR, leads a nature walk during a[n]...open house at the Gibson Woods Nature Preserve in Hammond, [Indiana]. The event was held to highlight ongoing restoration efforts along the Grand Calumet River." Photo by Molly DeVore, The Northwest Indiana Times
Professor De La Fuente, with Ezekiel Flannery, helps with the Meet, Feet & Eat: Coffee Creek Nature and Cultural Outing (sharing her knowledge about the world of fungi) with Just Transitions Northwest Indiana - a grassroots environmental justice organization serving the Northwest Indiana region. Photo by Just Transitions
Why waste space? Flanked by fruit trees, this particular hydropower plant in Chiang Mai, Thailand is also used as a trout farm for the local community. Peer through the grates and watch the water rush into the plant and be used as a space to farm trout. Photo by Lalinda De La Fuente
Marketing and Communications
Open House Promotions:
The Marketing Team's campaign for the Fall Open House includes repeating some of the tactics that contributed to the success of the event held earlier in the spring. This includes live appearances of on-air radio personalities from two radio stations, 106.3 FM and 92.3 FM, on campus on 11/11. The radio stations will raffle off prizes and give concert tickets to a few lucky winners. Additionally, commercials are currently running to promote Open House, which features three programs: Information Technology, Auto Technology, and Exercise Science.
Promoting PSC on WGN!
Physical Exercise Science Program Coordinator Devon Lindsay, Associate Professor, Information Technology/Dept. Chair Brian Donovan and Professor/Coordinator, Automotive Technology Tony Gumushian joined Vice President External Affairs Jeri Bingham at WGN Chicago, where they were able to record commercials to promote programs at PSC, including Exercise Science, Cyber Security, and Automotive Technology.
Picture Day at PSC!
Powell Photography will be on campus from 10 a.m. to noon on Thursday, November 16, to take headshots for PSC employees. If you do not have a headshot on file at the college, stop by room 2281, in Marketing Suite 2280 during the date and time listed to the left. No appointment is needed.
New PSC View Book!
We are excited to announce that our Marketing and Communications team has launched a new view book this fall. By showcasing the diverse range of programs and the vibrant college life we offer, this marketing tool will play a crucial role in capturing the essence of our institution and engaging prospective students and their families.
Today at PSC:
Today at PSC was created to reduce communication from PSC announcements, events will be selected from the calendar and sent in an email each morning. If no events are happening that day, no email will be sent. We will continue This Week at PSC on Mondays and schedule Today at PSC Tuesday - Friday. That way, we can share a preview of the week and use Today at PSC as a daily reminder.
If you have an event approaching, please be sure it is added to the events calendar >> Calendar Listing Form.
BRAND AWARENESS (Paid Media):
Efforts to raise visibility through paid advertising and sponsorship for the PSC brand.
Digital Media:
Southland Journal – Homecoming “Community Day” ads
Southland Journal –Halloween Fun Fest ads
Southland Journal – Fall registration online ads
Southland Journal – Start Near, Go Far (general awareness) ads
Homewood Flossmoor Chronicle - Fall registration online ads and link to PSC website
eNews Park Forest – Fall registration online ads
Print Advertising:
Homewood-Flossmoor Neighbors magazine – General Awareness Ad
South Suburban News – General Awareness Ad
Out of Home (OOH)/Outdoor:
“Register Now’ Feather Banners on PSC campus
-Halsted Street
-Vollmer Road
-Coolidge
Mini Billboard/Kiosks on grocery store disinfectant wipe dispensers at entrance
-Jewel (Homewood (Halsted St), South Chicago Heights
-CVS (Olympia Fields, Park Forest)
“Start Near, Go Far” Billboard and kiosk at the South Holland Oasis on the 80-294 Tollway east of the Halsted exit
“Start Near, Go Far” Billboard on I-394 W/S, N/O STEGER RD, N/F
“Start Near, Go Far” Billboard on Union Street at Stop Sign (Will County)
BRAND AWARENESS (Earned Media):
Efforts to raise visibility and solicit recognition of the PSC brand through pitches to the media
eNews Park Forest, 10/16
Prairie State College Board of Trustees seek candidates to fill a vacancy: https://www.enewspf.com/latest-news/prairie-state-college-board-of-trustees-seeks-candidates-to-fill-a-vacancy/
eNews Park Forest Newsletter, 10/15
Prairie State College Board of Trustees seeks candidates to fill a vacancy: https://www.enewspf.com/
Homewood Flossmoor Chronicle Newsletter, 10/15
Food trucks, fun and more at PSC's community celebration: https://www.enewspf.com/category/latest-news/schools/
Homewood Flossmoor Chronicle, 10/13
Deadline is Wednesday to apply for vacancy PSC board : https://www.hfchronicle.com/2023/10/13/deadline-is-wednesday-to-apply-for-vacancy-on-psc-board/
Homewood Flossmoor Chronicle, 10/12
PSC Homecoming Event October 16: https://www.hfchronicle.com/2023/10/12/psc-homecoming-event-oct-16/
Chicago Tribune/ Daily Southtown, 10/12
Discover untapped resources for seniors in Chicago Heights : https://www.countryherald.com/news/discover-untapped-resources-for-seniors-in-chicago-heights/
Southland Journal, 10/11
Joyce invites seniors to upcoming resource fair : https://thesouthlandjournal.com/joyce-invites-seniors-to-upcoming-resource-fair/
The Elgin Observer, 10/11
Photos: Men's soccer loses 0-3 against Prairie State College: https://elginobserver.com/22006/uncategorized/photos-mens-soccer-loses-0-3-against-prairie-state-college/
eNews Park Forest, 10/09
Food trucks, fun and more at PSC's community celebration : https://www.enewspf.com/latest-news/human-interest/food-trucks-fun-and-more-at-pscs-community-celebration/
Chicago Heights Patch, 10/10
Prairie State College Ribbon Cutting: https://patch.com/illinois/chicagoheights/calendar/event/20231018/5fb8855e-c421-402e-b245-91cdd51f3fc1/prairie-state-college-atrium-ribbon-cutting-ceremony
Chicago Heights Patch, 10/10
Prairie State College Community Celebration Homecoming Week Activity : https://patch.com/illinois/chicagoheights/calendar/event/20231016/3ad96e6e-10c9-4983-b977-dd777d059605/prairie-state-college-community-celebration-homecoming-week-activity
Research.com, 10/10
Best Colleges (IL), Prairie State College Profile: https://research.com/best-colleges/prairie-state-college
Research.com, 10/10
Best Colleges, Best Value in Illinois, Prairie State College #58: https://research.com/best-colleges/best-value/illinois
Southland Journal 10/06
Prairie State College to host free community celebration event on October 16 : https://thesouthlandjournal.com/prairie-state-college-to-host-free-community-celebration-event-on-october-16/
Homewood Flossmoor Chronicle, 10/03
Homewood Flossmoor's Career Pathways program will help students explore careers: https://www.hfchronicle.com/2023/10/03/h-fs-career-pathways-program-will-help-students-explore-careers/
Targetednews.com, 9/25
NJCAA DII Men's Soccer Rankings: https://targetednews.com/
BRAND AWARENESS (Owned Media):
Efforts to raise visibility through PSC-owned platforms.
PSC Website Highlights
Homecoming
Halloween Fun Fest
Fall Registration is Open
Walk-in Advising
PSC Foundation Scholarships
PATH Pipeline for the the Advancement of the Healthcare Workforce (PATH Grant)
Information Technology Program
Auto Technology Program
Exercise Science Program
Post cards with PSC website QR code mailed to 100,000 homes in Chicago Heights
Christopher Art Gallery
Tapestry of Voices: The Poetic Dialogue Project
An exhibition featuring ten pairings of contemporary visual artists and poets, with each pair creating a collaborative work of visual art and text. Works in photography, painting, fiber, installation and hand-made books are included.
Oct. 9-Nov. 14, 2023
Oct. 10, 9:30-10:30 a.m.: Panel Discussion on the creativity of collaboration
Oct. 11, 10-11 a.m.: Second panel discussion, followed by poetry readings
Reception: Oct. 11, 11 a.m.-1:30 p.m.
Expressive Geometry Works by James Bowden, Steven Luecking and Christopher Newman
Paintings and sculptures that emphasize interactions of geometric shapes and forms to create unique expressions.
Sept. 4-Sept. 27, 2023
Reception: Wednesday, Sept. 13, 11 a.m.-1:30 p.m.
Annual Fall Student Exhibition Curated by Professor Paul Rinaldi
Works in various media by Prairie State College Fine Arts and photography students.
Aug. 14-30, 2023
Reception: Wednesday, Aug. 30, 11 a.m.-1 p.m.
Conference Center
External Groups: During September, seven (7) external events were held, and various groups rented the space for a number of hours. The total number of individuals served in the community was approximately 395 (attendance).
Internal Groups: There were ten (10) events held which were reserved by Prairie State College employees for student events, meetings and other activities. Activities included All Latin Alliance Club Meeting, College 101, Military Student Affairs Blood Drive, STEM Orientation, Time Management, Readiness and Emergency Management Training, Pace Bus Recruitment and other events.
Institutional Research
PSC Student Facts
Each month, the Institutional Research office will be sharing interesting facts about PSC and our students. These facts will be gathered from the internal and external data reporting that we work on. We hope these monthly tidbits get you excited and curious about how data can help us know and serve our students better! Reach out to Annette Dolph with any data-related questions.
Athletics
Postseason Begins for Fall Sports
Men's Soccer looking to repeat as National Champions
Men's Soccer: PSC is playing its best soccer of the season having won 11 matches in a row. The Pioneers are in the middle of the Region IV Tournament having defeated Waubonsee 3-1 in their opening round matchup. Kishwaukee College is next up for the Pioneers at home on Halloween. Let's hope the outcome is spooky for Kishwaukee as the Pioneers look to win back-to-back national championships.
Women's Soccer: The women's squad under first-year coach Carlos Reyes are showing signs of growth as a program and sit with a 3-6-3 record.
For schedule information, please visit the Prairie State College Athletics website.
National Coaches Day
October 6th was National Coaches Day! Coaches are highly qualified teachers in specialized fields. But more than that, they are friends and counselors who help instill in their team essential values that will serve them all their lives. PSC is grateful to our coaches who inspire, teach, and push our student-athletes to be their best. A special thanks to: Carlos Reyes, Dre Gilmore, Mike Manderino, Donn Gobbie, Tanner Kuehn, Debbie Shannon, and Frank Wilkins.
Pioneer Palooza
Athletics hosted its second annual “Pioneer Palooza” on Wednesday, October 18th. Pioneer Palooza featured PSC volleyball’s “Sophomore Night” match, followed by a preview of the PSC men’s and women’s basketball teams. The basketball portion of the evening consisted of a 3-point shooting contest, a dunk competition, and a “two-ball” competition. Congratulations to our sophomore volleyball players along with their families!
Connect with PSC Athletics on social media!
Twitter - @PSCPioneers
Facebook - Prairie State College Athletics
Instagram - @prairiestatecollegeathletics
Office of Institutional Advancement and PSC Foundation
Foundation Annual Meeting
The members of the Foundation met on September 28 in the College Board Room for the Foundation’s Annual Meeting. Dr. Michael Anthony and Ms. Deborah Smith Havighorst gave updates on the College and Ms. Chidinma Obialor, Vice President of the Student Government Association and SGA representative to the Foundation, updated the Board on the numerous student clubs and organizations and the many activities with which students are involved.
Unfortunately, the Foundation directors were asked to approve the resignations from Mr. Andre’ Ashmore and Ms. Kathryn Humecki. Directors expressed their gratitude for the service these members, both former Foundation presidents, provided.
Six directors renewed their appointments for the next six years including:
Brent Frank
Dr. Marie Hansel
Joyce M. Michael
Rebecca Nagle
Patrick J. Ormsby
Marisela Zambrano
The following directors were appointed for one year each:
Thomas Nicholas
Chidinma Obialor
Jay Readey
Cathy Svetanoff
Elighie Wilson III
Additionally, Ms. Svetanoff was appointed Treasurer of the Foundation, a role traditionally held by the Vice President of Finance or Chief Financial Officer of the College.
Ms. Rebecca Nagle, Associate Vice President of Old Plank Trail Community Bank, was elected President for the next two years. The new Vice President and Secretary will be elected at the November Full Board meeting.
The following committee chairs were named:
Alumni: Dr. Marie Hansel
Economic Forecast Breakfast: Mr. Jay Readey
Fundraising: Ms. Sonia Gomez
Investment & Finance Mr. Brent Frank, Mr. Pat Ormsby, Co-Chairs
Scholarship: Ms. Maria Desmond
Scholarship Classic Golf Outing: Mr. Kyle Kasperek
Special Funding Request: Ms. Marilyn Kent Tapajna
Special Funding Request: Birthday Candles at Northlight Theatre
The Foundation recently received this letter from Associate Professor Joshua Green:
On October 3, 2023, the Communication Department, in association with Communication Day and through a generous gift from the Prairie State Foundation, were able to attend a performance of Birthday Candles at Northlight Theatre. Prof. Trunnell and myself attracted students from our communication and theatre classes, furnished them with study guides, and took part in a post-show discussion. This was a phenomenal learning experience for our students as they were exposed to professional regional theater. The show had a highly successful sold out run and we were fortunate to have the opportunity to attend.
Again thank you to the PSC Foundation for this opportunity, the students and faculty are extremely fortunate to have this institution providing resources for the betterment of student life.
Prairie State College Foundation turns 50!
On October 30, 1973, the PSC Foundation was officially incorporated as a 501(c)3 with the following mission statement:
Prairie State College Foundation is a non-profit organization committed to excellence in education by promoting Prairie State College and enhancing the opportunities for students.
The Foundation works to:
Increase public awareness of the College’s central role in the well-being of our community and its citizens.
Seek financial support to fund student scholarships, attract and retain able faculty and staff, and provide for the College’s growth and development.
Identify potential Board members, involving those who bring leadership, insights, and new contacts to the Foundation.
To celebrate this special time in the organization’s history, the Foundation hosted a Donut Day celebration on its 50th anniversary Monday, October 30. All College employees, trustees, and Foundation directors were invited to the College’s Employee Lounge to celebrate this occasion.
Additional events have been and will be planned to celebrate this milestone during the 2023 – 2024 academic year.
Tributes
Donors can have a personalized card sent to anyone they would like to honor, be it for a birthday, job promotion, anniversary, etc. for a minimum donation of $5 per tribute. Tributes can also be sent in memory of someone’s loved one and the card will go to the intended recipient. This is a great way to let someone know you appreciate them or you are thinking of them. Tribute donations can go to any fund the donor chooses.
Recent Tributes
Deb Havigorst, October 16, 2023
Deb Havighorst made a donation to the Dr. Michael D. Anthony Scholarship Fund in Honor of Dr. Anthony to celebrate Boss’ Day and his second anniversary as President.
Susan Sebastian, October 16, 2023
Susan Sebastian made a generous donation to the Foundation’s Alden J. Smith Welding Scholarship in Honor of Deb Havighorst for Boss’ Day.
Upcoming Events
Fall 23' Open House
The College will host an open house for prospective students and community members looking to begin or continue on the path to earning a college degree; start of change careers; pursue adult education; or learn about the campus, programs, and services available at PSC. The event will be held from 10 a.m. to noon., Saturday, November 10, on the college's main campus. For more information, please contact Beth Wyack at bwyack@prairiestate.edu.
Upcoming College Events:
November 11 PSC Open House
November 16 Benefits Fair
November 22-26 Holiday Break
Choose one of 50 Fall Desserts!
Click the link below for quick and easy autumn treats- pies, cobblers, and more! If you have a recipe you want to share in future newsletters, please send to calston@prairiestate.edu.
Board of Trustees
The Board of Trustees' regular monthly meetings are held on the last Tuesday of each month at 5:30 p.m. To view information from the Board of Trustees, including meeting agendas, minutes. and audio/video recordings, visit Board Meetings.
Request Intranet Updates
Please take a look at your page(s) on the Intranet and complete the Intranet Request Form below. Once received, the communications team will review your request and follow-up.
If you have any questions, please contact
Allan Scarabello at ascarabello@prairiestate.edu.
Have an Announcement?
We love good news! If you have an announcement you want to share, submit the form below, and we'll publish it in the upcoming newsletter.
Request Website Updates
The college Intranet and website fall under the Marketing and Communications Department. Please complete the Website Request Form below for updates, changes, or to request a new page on the PSC website.
Once submitted, Mike Saldaña, content/website specialist, will review your request and follow up. Small changes, such as grammatical errors, can be sent directly to msaldana4@prairiestate.edu.