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

06/02/2026

Last month, ACI President April Arnold joined Chicago Women in Philanthropy for its Annual Luncheon at the Chicago Marriott Magnificent Mile as a guest of Forvis Mazars US, a longtime supporter of Associated Colleges of Illinois.

Thank you, Forvis Mazars, for extending the invite and for the opportunity to reconnect with colleagues, build new relationships, and celebrate the collective impact created through partnership.

Pictured: April Arnold, ACI; ACI Trustee Kimberly Marshall, Audit Managing Director, Forvis Mazars; Joyce Chacko, Forvis Mazars

This signature event celebrates women whose leadership has made a lasting impact on philanthropy and communities across Chicago. Founded in 1981, Chicago Women in Philanthropy has spent more than four decades fostering connections and advancing opportunities for women and girls.

06/01/2026

Rockford University, an ACI member school, hosted a monumental 172nd commencement ceremony, where graduates crossed the stage celebrating not only academic achievement but the perseverance and determination that brought them there.

At ACI, we’re proud to support institutions that create pathways to opportunity and help students overcome barriers in pursuit of their goals. Congratulations to the Class of 2026! 🎓

05/28/2026

Congratulations to the graduates of our ACI member schools! 🎓 As the spring semester comes to a close, we celebrate the hard work, resilience, and achievements of students across Illinois who are stepping into their next chapter. Your dedication has brought you to this milestone, and your future is full of possibilities.

05/27/2026

“I got to socialize with a lot of different employers, and I got some really good opportunities lined up from this event, and I'm really thankful that I came.” – Jenna, Elmhurst University | ACI Breakfast Forum 2026

We’re proud to help students focus on their education while building meaningful relationships that shape their future.

05/21/2026

“ACI has just been such an incredible help” – Maya, Elmhurst University | ACI Breakfast Forum 2026

A powerful reminder of what scholarship support makes possible. By easing the financial burden of tuition, ACI helps students stay focused on their education and their future.

05/19/2026

Big news for ACI member school, North Park University: North Park University has earned accreditation for its Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling program through 2034, a major milestone that reflects the strength of its faculty, curriculum, and commitment to student success.

Designed with extensive field experience and a focus on ethical, culturally competent care, the program is preparing future counselors to serve communities in need across Illinois and beyond.

Check out the full article here: https://www.northpark.edu/stories/north-parks-macmhc-program-receives-accreditation/

At ACI, we’re proud to support institutions like North Park University that respond to workforce needs, expand access to meaningful careers, and equip students to make a lasting difference in the lives of others.

05/18/2026

We are proud to feature Lauren Groff, CPA, Partner and Not-For-Profit Audit Services Leader at Sikich, and member of the ACI Board of Trustees.

Lauren is a first-generation college student and graduate who understands firsthand the complexities of applying to college, financing an education, and balancing coursework with the demands of working to cover tuition and living expenses. In her professional career, she works closely with many of ACI’s member schools, where she sees both the challenges students face and the critical role institutions—and ACI’s support—play in helping them succeed.

Lauren brings deep expertise in higher ed total rewards strategies and marketing to the ACI Board of Trustees, and we are so thankful to have her as part of our team!

We are so thankful to have Lauren Groff’s leadership, expertise, and strategic perspective helping advance ACI’s mission.

05/14/2026

ACI Board Chair, Lyn Bulman, received the Council of Independent Colleges (CIC) Charles W. L. Foreman Award at the Opening Session on April 28. This prestigious honor is presented annually to individuals who have shown exceptional leadership and commitment to supporting state-based councils and independent higher education. It is considered the highest honor given by the CIC's State Councils, recognizing service that distinguishes the recipient from their peers.

Drawing on her distinguished career in global human resources, Lyn has brought strategic vision, transparency, and a deep dedication to student success to ACI, guiding the organization through a period of transformation and strengthening its ability to serve students across Illinois. Her leadership has not only stabilized and advanced ACI’s mission but also reinforced a shared belief in expanding access to education and opportunity for those who need it most.

05/13/2026

Congratulations to Saint Xavier University, an ACI member school, which has been named a 2026-2027 Military Friendly® School for the seventh consecutive year. Recognized as a Silver School, SXU continues to go above the standard in helping veterans thrive through strong outcomes in retention, graduation, job placement, and student support.

Learn more: https://www.sxu.edu/news/articles/2026/sxu-named-2026-2027-military-friendly-school.html

Through initiatives like the Yellow Ribbon Program and its Student Veteran Alliance, Saint Xavier is creating a campus environment where veterans and their families can build community, pursue their goals, and succeed in the classroom and beyond. At ACI, we’re proud to support institutions like Saint Xavier University that expand access, honor service, and ensure students from all backgrounds have the resources to succeed in college, career, and life.

05/12/2026

“I am really glad that I am able to attend and be part of the scholarship program. I was able to build my connections and network with people, and also build up for my future." – Danna, Judson University | ACI Breakfast Forum 2026

Moments like these remind us why partnerships matter. Huge thanks to our sponsors + partners for making them possible.

Address

70 E. Lake Street , Suite 1418
Chicago, IL
60601

Telephone

+13122632391

Website

https://acifund.org/

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