Associated Colleges of Illinois

10/12/2026

At Augustana College - Illinois, an ACI member school, three students are contributing to work at some of the country’s top research universities. Antonina Gramatnikovska ’27, James Vargas ’28 and Alivia Seehase ’28 spent their summers conducting research at Loyola University Chicago, Northwestern University and the University of Iowa, exploring cardiovascular disease, a rare skin disorder and cancer.

Read more: https://augustana.edu/about-us/news/augustana-students-contribute-work-prominent-research-universities

Can this type of experience be intimidating for undergraduates? Of course. But these Augustana students were prepared to contribute. If you’ve been wondering, “Why support ACI?” This is why.

10/08/2026

We love seeing where students’ journeys take them! Danna C. is now in her senior year at Judson University, an ACI member school, continuing to pursue her passion for architecture while building confidence and making connections in the field. She shared how she felt after attending an ACI event.

Danna is also giving back on campus through Judson’s RISE program, where she serves as a RISE Community Coordinator, helping students with intellectual disabilities grow in independence, faith, employment skills, and community. She also works as a teaching assistant for the culinary class and supports the RISE team behind the scenes.

We’re so proud to be part of Danna’s journey and can’t wait to see what’s next as she explores opportunities in architecture, including her passion for church architecture. Thanks for letting ACI cheer you on, Danna!

10/07/2026

ACI member school Olivet Nazarene University once again received distinguished recognition in the U.S. News and World Report in the 2027 “Best Colleges” report as a best Regional University (Midwest) and as a Top Private School–Regional Universities (Midwest). We’re always proud to see a member institution receive a moment in the spotlight that we know they deserve.

Most importantly, Olivet Nazarene University was recognized as a Top Performer on Social Mobility. This accolade acknowledges that undergraduate students who enter college at a social or economic disadvantage often experience positive outcomes when attending this University.

🔗 https://www.olivet.edu/news/olivet-distinguished-in-2027-u-s-news-best-colleges-report/

For more than 30 years, students and families have relied on U.S. News rankings to aid in their college search process. At ACI, we want to make sure our member schools are at the top of your list for students who are interested in a liberal arts education in the Midwest!

10/06/2026

ACI member school North Central College's Master of Science in Physician Assistant Studies program has earned continued accreditation from the Accreditation Review Commission on Education for the Physician Assistant (ARC-PA), reaffirming its commitment to academic excellence and high-quality healthcare education.

With demand for physician assistants continuing to grow, North Central is preparing students for impactful careers through rigorous coursework, hands-on clinical experiences, and patient-centered training.

Learn more: https://www.northcentralcollege.edu/news/2026/06/08/master-physician-assistant-studies-program-earns-continued-accreditation

ACI is proud to support institutions that equip students with the skills and credentials needed to succeed in high-demand fields while strengthening Illinois' healthcare workforce and communities.

09/29/2026

A college degree can provide more than career opportunities. It can offer greater financial security. College graduates are more likely to maintain steady employment and are often better positioned to navigate economic uncertainty and changing job markets.

Higher education helps build the skills, knowledge, and adaptability that support long-term success. At ACI, we're proud to support institutions that prepare students not only for their first job, but for a lifetime of opportunity and resilience.

09/28/2026

ACI member school Elmhurst University has been recognized by U.S. News and World Report in the Top 10 in the Midwest – No. 2 for Veterans and No. 7 for Social Mobility

These distinctions reflect Elmhurst's commitment to expanding access to higher education, supporting veteran and military-connected students, and helping first-generation and economically disadvantaged students achieve their goals.

Learn more: https://www.elmhurst.edu/news/u-s-news-ranks-elmhurst-u-no-2-in-midwest-for-veterans-no-7-for-social-mobility/

At ACI, we believe higher education should create pathways to opportunity for all students. We're proud to support institutions like Elmhurst that are advancing student success and helping more Illinois residents thrive in college, career, and life.

09/24/2026

ACI member school Monmouth College is expanding opportunities for students with the addition of two new majors, Agribusiness Management and Finance, launching in Fall 2027! 🎉

Designed to meet evolving workforce needs, these programs will combine hands-on professional preparation with the critical thinking, communication, and problem-solving skills that define a liberal arts education.

Learn more: https://www.monmouthcollege.edu/live/news/6048-college-adds-agribusiness-finance

At ACI, we believe students thrive when they have access to academic pathways that align with both their interests and the needs of employers. By preparing graduates for in-demand careers, institutions like Monmouth help strengthen Illinois' workforce and support thriving communities across the state.

09/23/2026

Thanks to support from ACI and its partners, Rockford University student Samantha S. is building the skills, confidence, and leadership experience needed to make a difference in the lives of others. As a psychology student, student leader, and participant in the BravenX program, Samantha is already creating positive change on her campus and preparing for a career of impact.

Stories like Samantha's are why ACI's mission matters. Through scholarships, mentorship, and transformative opportunities, we help students overcome barriers, complete their education, and graduate ready to lead, serve, and strengthen communities across Illinois.

Every scholarship tells a story, and every donor helps write it. Your gift can help more students find their voice and their future. Consider donating today: https://acifund.org/your-gift-helps-students-find-their-voices/

09/22/2026

Independent, nonprofit colleges and universities in Illinois generate significant annual economic impact. They support hundreds of thousands of jobs statewide, while serving as critical partners in Illinois’ workforce strategy to align talent development with employer demand and help more residents earn credentials that lead to family-sustaining careers.

Through workforce-ready programs, industry partnerships, and student-centered support, ACI member institutions are helping strengthen Illinois' economy by preparing students with the talent employers need today and in the future.

09/17/2026

What drives college enrollment decisions today? According to recent research from Campus Sonar, 62% of conversations about college focus on what happens after graduation. Students and families want to know that their degree will lead to meaningful opportunities, career readiness, and a strong return on investment.

That's why ACI member colleges and universities prioritize internships, hands-on learning, employer partnerships, and career outcomes that help students succeed long after commencement. At ACI, we believe higher education should open doors to rewarding careers, economic mobility, and stronger communities across Illinois.

Read the article: https://blog.campussonar.com/blog/what-drives-enrollment-decisions-today-clear-roi

Discover how showcasing the ROI of a degree can enhance enrollment strategies and student success in today's competitive college landscape.