Associated Colleges of Illinois

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Associated Colleges of Illinois

ACI is a network of independent, private colleges and universities that raises funds for student scholarships

09/02/2026

ACI member school Millikin University's Master of Science in Athletic Training Program has earned reaffirmation from the Commission on Accreditation of Athletic Training Education (CAATE), recognizing the program's commitment to rigorous academic and clinical excellence.

Through hands-on learning, expert mentorship, and real-world clinical experiences, Millikin is preparing the next generation of athletic trainers to make an immediate impact in healthcare and the communities they serve. Learn more: https://millikin.edu/news-events/newsroom/millikins-master-athletic-training-program-accredited-caate

At ACI, we're proud to support institutions that equip students with the knowledge, skills, and experiences needed to succeed in high-demand careers and strengthen Illinois' workforce.

09/01/2026

For Illinois students, especially those who are first-generation or from low-income backgrounds, college is transformative. Today, college graduates earn 75% more than those without a degree; up from 39% in 1980. Over a lifetime, that translates to an average of $1.2 million more in earnings compared to individuals with only a high school diploma.

A college education is one of the most powerful investments students can make in their future, opening doors to greater opportunities, career advancement, and economic mobility.

08/27/2026

Eureka College, an ACI member school, celebrated the opening of its new Student Success Center, a dedicated space designed to support academic achievement, strengthen community, and help students reach graduation.

By bringing key student support services together under one roof, the center reflects Eureka's commitment to creating an environment where students can thrive both inside and outside the classroom.
Learn more: https://www.centralillinoisproud.com/news/local-news/eureka-college-student-success-center/

At ACI, we're proud to support institutions that invest in student success and help learners achieve their educational and career goals.

08/26/2026

ACI member school Illinois Wesleyan University is making history with the launch of the Fisher Center for Interdisciplinary Quantum Science & Engineering—the first undergraduate interdisciplinary quantum program of its kind in the nation! This innovative program will prepare students for emerging careers in quantum technology while demonstrating the power of a liberal arts education to meet the workforce needs of tomorrow.

Learn more: https://www.iwu.edu/news/2026/illinois-wesleyan-announces-interdisciplinary-undergraduate-quantum-science-engineering-center.html

At ACI, we're proud to support institutions that help students succeed in college, career, and life.

08/24/2026

A college education is about more than earning a degree—it's about gaining the skills and experiences that lead to lifelong success. Illinois' independent colleges and universities provide:

✔️ High-impact learning through internships, research, and service-learning
✔️ Strong outcomes in critical thinking, communication, and leadership
✔️ Graduates who are ready to contribute from day one

When students learn by doing, they graduate prepared to lead, innovate, and strengthen Illinois communities and workplaces.

08/20/2026

ACI member school Principia College is helping students turn opportunities into outcomes. From a networking event to three internships at a world-renowned plant science research center, Principia College student Amarachi Ejimadu's journey highlights the power of opportunity, mentorship, and career-connected learning. Through personalized support and meaningful experiential learning opportunities, Principia is helping students turn their passions into professional momentum.

Learn more: https://www.principiacollege.edu/news/college-news-post/~board/college-news/post/from-opportunity-to-outcome-how-principia-college-students-build-career-momentum

Stories like Amarachi's reflect ACI's mission to support institutions that help students succeed in college, career, and life.

08/19/2026

Independent colleges and universities are powering Illinois' future. In Illinois, independent institutions award:

🎓 42% of bachelor's degrees
🎓 64% of master's degrees
🎓 67% of first professional degrees
🎓 50% of doctoral degrees

These numbers represent future teachers, nurses, business leaders, scientists, and community changemakers making an impact across our state.

At ACI, we're proud to support independent colleges and universities that expand opportunity, strengthen communities, and help students succeed in college, career, and life.

08/18/2026

Congratulations to Saint Xavier University, an ACI member school, on being named a 2026-2027 College of Distinction for the 11th consecutive year! SXU continues to demonstrate a commitment to student success. The University also earned a new distinction for excellence in supporting transfer students.

Learn more: https://www.sxu.edu/news/articles/2026/sxu-named-2027-college-of-distinction.html

This recognition reflects the type of student-centered, outcomes-focused education that aligns with ACI's mission of helping students succeed in college, career, and life.

07/16/2026

Congratulations to Lewis University on earning recognition for six graduate programs in the 2026 U.S. News and World Report Best Graduate School Rankings! These rankings reflect the university’s dedication to education, nursing, occupational therapy, social work, and speech-language pathology programs, highlighting Lewis University's commitment to preparing students for meaningful careers that strengthen our communities.

Learn more: https://www.lewisu.edu/news/newsarticle.htm?PArticleID=13466

At ACI, we're proud to support member institutions that advance academic excellence and help students succeed in college, career, and life.

07/15/2026

Congratulations to ACI member schools, Blackburn College and Millikin University, on establishing a new MBA Direct Admit Partnership that provides a seamless pathway for qualified Blackburn graduates to advance to Millikin's Accelerated MBA program. The partnership also includes opportunities for graduate assistantships, helping students gain valuable leadership experience while earning an advanced degree.

This collaboration demonstrates how ACI institutions are finding innovative ways to expand educational opportunities, strengthen workforce preparation, and help students move confidently from undergraduate study to advanced degrees and meaningful careers.

Read more about the partnership: https://blackburn.edu/blackburn-college-and-millikin-university-establish-mba-direct-admit-partnership/

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