ACI Student Scholar: Jazmin E., University of St. Francis
Campus and Community: Illinois Wesleyan Launches Quantum Science Center; Millikin and Blackburn Create New Graduate Pathway
ACI NEWS: 2026 Mackinac Roundtable on Talent
ACI & CIC Team Up for AI Ready
Board Member Bravo! Patricia Mota Honored as a Changemaker
More Than a Mentor: Building Confidence and Community
BravenX Partnership Continues to Open Doors
ACI Corporate Partner: Graystone Consulting
Foundations, Individuals Support ACI Initiatives and Programs
Give a Gift: Help College Students Find Their Voices
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As we begin a new academic year, there is no shortage of headlines about higher education. Colleges continue to navigate enrollment shifts, changing student expectations, evolving workforce demands, and rapid advances in technology. At the same time, public conversations often focus solely on the challenges facing higher education rather than the extraordinary value it continues to create.
At Associated Colleges of Illinois, we see a different story.
We see students like Jazmin, whose determination, with the support of scholarships, transformed uncertainty into opportunity. We see campuses investing in the future through groundbreaking initiatives like Illinois Wesleyan University's new Quantum Science Center and institutions working together to strengthen career readiness and create innovative graduate pathways that expand opportunities for students. We see college members thoughtfully enhancing the quality of life for all, not just for those who use them.
This reminds us that progress is built through partnership. Whether it is higher education leaders collaborating at the Mackinac Roundtable on Talent, corporate partners investing in student success, or cost-saving program opportunities, mentors helping students discover their confidence, or trustees and community leaders opening doors for the next generation, every success story begins with people committed to creating opportunity.
Photo: Aleya Cydney Photography
We have always believed that challenges are best met through collaboration. When colleges, business leaders, foundations, donors, and community partners work together, students gain more than financial support—they gain confidence, opportunity, and hope for what lies ahead.
Independent colleges are one of Illinois' greatest assets. They educate future teachers, nurses, scientists, entrepreneurs, business leaders, and civic leaders while strengthening communities across our state. Together, we have an opportunity, and a responsibility, to continue telling that story.
Yes, there is uncertainty surrounding federal higher education policy and financial aid. For many students and families, questions about affordability and access have never felt more personal. There is uncertainty in many things, but remaining passive doesn’t help create the necessary change.
Every scholarship awarded, every internship created, every mentorship offered, and every gift received helps ensure that talented students can continue their education regardless of the obstacles they face. Students need your help now!
Thank you for not being passive and for your belief in the life-changing power of higher education. Together, we are not simply responding to change; we are helping to shape a stronger narrative about the future for Illinois students, their families, and the communities they will and already serve.
Graduating in May 2026 from the University of St. Francis, Jazmin’s story is one of resilience, determination, and transformation. Once uncertain about whether college was truly within reach, she found encouragement and support through scholarship opportunities and the ACI community that helped turn possibility into achievement.
Jazmin is not only a college graduate but also a future leader, planning to pursue advanced degrees and passionate about building workplaces where people feel valued and supported. Her journey is a powerful reminder of why investing in students changes the trajectory of entire families and communities.
National Leaders at 16th Annual Mackinac Roundtable on Talent
Pictured left to right: Dr. Annette VanAken, Dr. Troy VanAken (Elmhurst University), Dr. Brian McGee (Quincy University), Marsha McGee, Dr. Dean Pribbenow (Millikin University), Dr. Kristine Mickelson, Dr. Keith Elder (St. Xavier University), April Arnold (Associated Colleges of Illinois).
Associated Colleges of Illinois (ACI) was proud to participate in the 16th Annual Mackinac Roundtable on Talent, hosted by the Michigan Colleges Alliance (MCA) at the historic Grand Hotel on Mackinac Island. The nationally recognized gathering brought together independent college presidents, higher education leaders, corporate executives, and association representatives to examine the future of higher education and workforce development.
Centered on the theme "Strategy, Distinction, and Storytelling in an ROI Environment," this year's Roundtable explored how colleges can better communicate the value of higher education while preparing graduates for success in a rapidly changing workforce. National experts shared strategies for strengthening institutional identity, building employer partnerships, and aligning academic mission with career readiness.
ACI was pleased to be represented by member college presidents and institutional leaders from Elmhurst University, Millikin University, Quincy University, and St. Xavier University, committed to expanding opportunities for students across Illinois. The discussions reinforced ACI's focus on workforce-aligned education, career readiness, and the importance of collaboration between higher education and industry. The Mackinac Roundtable continues to demonstrate that strong partnerships among colleges, employers, funders, and community leaders are essential to developing tomorrow's workforce.
As part of the value of ACI membership, member institutions have the opportunity to participate in conversations like these, gaining access to innovative ideas, national perspectives, and valuable connections. ACI brings these insights and best practices back to Illinois to help strengthen member campuses and expand opportunities for the students they serve.
Solutions for All: Get AI Ready with CIC
Several ACI member institutions have enrolled in AI Ready: All Campus Essentials, a year-long professional development series from the Council of Independent Colleges (CIC) designed to help campuses thoughtfully integrate artificial intelligence across higher education.
Participating institutions receive monthly expert-led webinars, guided campus discussions, peer collaboration opportunities, and 500 Google-hosted Coursera AI learning licenses for faculty, staff, and students. The program explores practical applications of AI in areas such as enrollment management, teaching and learning, academic integrity, student advising, and more.
This year, ACI member institutions that enroll in any "AI Ready" program were eligible to receive one of a limited number of $1,000 scholarships to help offset the $2,500 institutional registration fee. Five scholarships will be awarded to member schools Elmhurst University, Judson University, McKendree University, Monmouth College, and Millikin University.
Whether your campus is participating in AI Ready or simply looking to stay informed, watch for upcoming announcements and join us as we continue exploring how AI can strengthen teaching, learning, and campus operations across Illinois.
Board Member Patricia Mota Honored as a Changemaker
Associated Colleges of Illinois proudly celebrates ACI Board Member Patricia Mota, President and CEO of the Hispanic Alliance for Career Enhancement (HACE), on her recognition as an "Imagine Your Impact" Changemaker at the Obama Presidential Center.
One of just 33 global changemakers featured in the Center's interactive exhibit, Patricia was honored for her leadership, service, and lifelong commitment to creating opportunity for others.
For Patricia, the recognition was deeply personal. Standing before her story in the museum, she reflected on the parents, grandparents, mentors, and colleagues who helped shape her journey.
"Dreams flourish when you cultivate them with community," she shared.
As a first-generation college graduate and daughter of immigrants, Patricia has dedicated her career to opening doors for others. Under her leadership, HACE has grown into one of the nation's leading professional development organizations, serving more than 150,000 professionals and partnering with over 250 corporations to advance career growth and leadership development.
Reflecting on the honor, Patricia noted, "Leadership is not about titles or recognition. It is about what we build in others... ensuring the next generation sees possibilities where others see barriers."
Patricia's recognition reflects the transformative power of mentorship, education, and opportunity, values that align closely with ACI's mission. We congratulate her on this well-deserved honor and thank her for the leadership and vision she brings to HACE, the ACI Board of Trustees, and communities across the country.
Corporate Partner Spotlight: Graystone Consulting
Strong partnerships are essential to creating lasting opportunities for students, and Associated Colleges of Illinois is grateful for the continued support of Graystone Consulting, an institutional consulting business of Morgan Stanley.
Since 1973, Graystone Consulting has set the standard in institutional investment consulting by providing holistic, objective advice, innovative strategies, and trusted guidance to educational institutions, nonprofits, and other organizations. Combining the personalized service of a boutique consulting firm with the resources of a global financial leader, Graystone has built enduring client relationships centered on integrity and long-term success.
Graystone's partnership with ACI reflects a shared commitment to strengthening higher education and expanding opportunities for students across Illinois. Their support helps advance ACI's mission of preparing students for success through innovative programs, career readiness initiatives, scholarships, and institutional collaboration.
We are proud to recognize Graystone Consulting as a valued partner and thank them for their continued investment in higher education and the future of Illinois students.
IWU Launches Groundbreaking Quantum Science Center
As industries prepare for the next wave of technological innovation, Illinois Wesleyan University (IWU) is positioning students to help lead it.
IWU recently announced the creation of the Fisher Center for Interdisciplinary Quantum Science & Engineering, a first-of-its-kind undergraduate initiative at a liberal arts institution. Supported by a transformational gift from alumni Ann and Alan Fisher, the Center combines the strengths of a liberal arts education with emerging technologies that will shape the future.
Students will gain hands-on experience through interdisciplinary coursework, faculty-mentored research, collaborative projects, internships, and experiential learning beginning early in their academic careers.
"Illinois Wesleyan's unique interdisciplinary approach...is naturally suited to the field of quantum studies," said President Sheahon J. Zenger. "The future requires people who can think across disciplines."
Alan Fisher, left, speaks at the launch of the Fisher Quantum Center along with Sheahon Zenger, President of IWU.
The Fisher Center also strengthens IWU’s role in Illinois’ growing quantum innovation ecosystem. Through partnerships with industry, research organizations, and visiting scholars, students will engage in cutting-edge research while helping build the workforce of tomorrow. The first quantum courses are scheduled to begin in Spring 2027.
IWU’s investment in quantum education highlights how ACI member institutions are innovating to prepare graduates with the adaptability, creativity, and technical skills needed for emerging industries.
Millikin and Blackburn Create New Graduate Pathway
ACI member Millikin University is deepening its commitment to collaborative education through a new MBA Direct Admit Partnership with Blackburn College, designed to create a seamless, supportive pathway from undergraduate study into graduate business education.
Beginning with the 2026–27 academic year, Blackburn students who meet established academic criteria will be guaranteed direct admission into Millikin’s Accelerated Master of Business Administration (MBA) program. The agreement reflects a shared vision between the two institutions: removing barriers, aligning academic experiences, and ensuring students can move confidently from college completion into advanced professional preparation. This coordinated approach ensures students are not navigating graduate school decisions alone, but are supported through a clearly defined academic bridge.
In addition to guaranteed admission for qualified graduates, the partnership also opens the door to graduate assistantship opportunities at Millikin, giving students the chance to gain hands-on leadership experience while completing their MBA. These roles provide meaningful exposure to faculty collaboration, applied learning, and professional skill development—key components of Millikin’s experiential education model.
The Blackburn–Millikin partnership reflects a broader trend among Illinois institutions that are working together to strengthen talent pipelines and expand access to graduate education. By aligning programs and expectations, both institutions are helping ensure that students are better prepared for the demands of today’s workforce while also addressing the evolving needs of Illinois employers.
Finding Confidence Through Connection: ACI Peer Mentoring
The greatest impact of ACI's Peer Mentoring Program can't always be measured in numbers; rather, it's found in the stories of the students whose lives have been transformed.
From discovering confidence and lifelong friendships to becoming leaders themselves, participants from Illinois College and Rockford University share how one connection can change the entire college experience.
Foundations, Organizations, and Individuals Support Initiatives and Programs
Several foundations, organizations, and individuals provide funds to ACI over the course of our fiscal year to help the organization fund its mission to support member colleges and universities "by advancing independent liberal arts and sciences education and helping underserved students succeed in college, career, and life."
Since May 1, these generous foundations and companies have awarded grants to ACI:
BNSF Railway Foundation
CME Group Foundation
Make It Better Foundation
McGraw Foundation
The Council of Independent Colleges
In addition, these individuals and companies took part in ACI's monthly giving program or provided other gifts to ACI since May 1:
Angela T. Allen
Arthur J. Gallagher & Co.
Susy Best
Peter Fissinger
JW Croft Consulting Group
Anthony P. LoBello
Susan Noyes
Leah D. Wallace
Please consider joining ACI’s monthly giving program to help students in need all year long. For more information, visit https://acifund.org/giving and select "monthly" or call Daisy Gomez at 312-263-2391, ext. 0 for further assistance.
ACI gratefully recognizes the commitment of these foundations, individuals and organizations that contributed to our mission.
THANK YOU!
Your Gift Helps Students Find Their Voices
Your generosity does more than fund programs. It opens doors, builds confidence, and helps students discover the potential to lead, serve, and create meaningful change in the world around them.
Samantha S. is one of those students.
As a student at Rockford University pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Psychology with a minor in Child and Adolescent Development, Samantha is preparing for a future dedicated to supporting the well-being of others. But her journey is about more than earning a degree.
Through opportunities made possible by ACI and its partners, Samantha has developed the leadership, communication, and professional skills that will help her thrive long after graduation. As President of the American Sign Language Club and Vice President of Student Government, she is already putting those skills into practice by building connections, advocating for her peers, and creating opportunities for others. Her passion for helping people began while studying American Sign Language at Waubonsee Community College, where she earned her Associate of Science degree.
Through the BravenX program, she has continued to strengthen the teamwork, problem-solving, and career readiness skills that employers seek and communities need. Most importantly, Samantha is preparing for a career focused on supporting youth development, mental health, and advocacy for individuals who need a strong voice in their corner.
When you invest in ACI students, you invest in future leaders like Samantha. You help students gain the experiences, mentorship, and confidence they need to graduate prepared not only for a career, but for a life of impact. The ripple effects of your generosity extend far beyond campus walls, strengthening families, workplaces, and communities across Illinois.
Your ongoing support ensures that more students like Samantha have access to transformational opportunities that help them succeed in college, enter the workforce with confidence, and become leaders who make a difference.
P.S. Many employers offer matching gift programs that can double or even triple the impact of your donation. Check with your employer to see if your gift can go even further for ACI students.
ACI-WAICU Affiliate Partnership: Cost Savings Program
Tues., Aug. 18, 2026, 11 a.m. - noon Wed., Aug. 19, 2026, 3:00-4:00 p.m.
Since 1973, Graystone Consulting has set the standard in institutional investment consulting by providing holistic, objective advice, innovative strategies, and trusted guidance to educational institutions, nonprofits, and other organizations. Combining the personalized service of a boutique consulting firm with the resources of a global financial leader, Graystone has built enduring client relationships centered on integrity and long-term success. 
shows what happens when students receive the tools, mentorship, and connections needed to succeed beyond college. 
