Chicago State University, CPS Network 17 Launch “Elevate 17”

A Bold Collaboration to Ignite Postsecondary Success Across Chicago’s South Side

CHICAGO — Chicago State University (CSU) and Chicago Public Schools (CPS) Network 17 have joined forces to launch Elevate 17: Powered by CSU and Network 17, a groundbreaking initiative designed to transform college access and success for students on Chicago’s South Side.

Bringing together education, community, city leadership, and trusted partners, Elevate 17 is not just another program — it’s a movement to ensure that every student, regardless of zip code, has a clear, supported pathway to higher education and economic mobility.

A Data-Driven Call to Action 

New research from CSU’s Illinois Center for Education Equity underscores the urgency of this initiative. The study, which surveyed more than 200 predominantly Black prospective students (ages 16–24), paints a picture of both promise and inequity:

• 79% of respondents expressed interest in attending college
• 73% of first-generation college hopefuls plan to enroll (compared to 94% of non-first-gen peers)
• 47% of first-gen students learned about college from school staff, yet 11% had no one guiding them through the process
• 83% of financially comfortable students plan to attend, compared to just 71% from struggling families
• 95% of female respondents plan to enroll, versus 75% of male respondents

These findings echo statewide data showing that college enrollment among Black students in Illinois has fallen 37% between 2011 and 2022, according to the Illinois Board of Higher Education.

“We can’t afford to lose another generation of talent,” said Zaldwaynaka “Z” Scott, President of Chicago State University. “As Illinois’ only four-year Predominantly Black Institution, Chicago State views this work as both our mission and our responsibility. Through Elevate 17, we are building a model for what equity in higher education looks like — starting here, on Chicago’s South Side.”

A Unified Vision for Student Success 

“Network 17 serves over 10,000 students across 19 South Side high schools — young people with extraordinary potential that deserves extraordinary commitment,” said Myron Hester, CPS Chief of Network 17. “Elevate 17 represents a unified system where every student is seen, supported, and guided toward success. Together, we are building a stronger, smarter South Side.”

Elevate 17 Builds on Proven Partnerships

The initiative expands on existing partnerships between CSU, Network 17, and community allies, including:

• Network 17 Day at CSU — A campus-wide celebration of student achievement that brings hundreds of high school students to experience college life firsthand.
• Education Day at CSU’s Women’s Basketball Game — A record-breaking event with over 1,300 students in attendance, showcasing the energy of college life and student success.
• CSU Dual Enrollment Program — Already serving 100+ students across 15+ high schools, enabling them to earn college credits before graduation.

Elevate 17: Building the Future Together

The initiative will drive unified strategies to:

• Expand college access and postsecondary options for South Side students
• Create transparent pathways and measurable outcomes
• Foster a college-going culture rooted in equity, excellence, and empowerment

CSU and Network 17 invite education funders, civic leaders, and community partners to join this movement. To learn more or get involved, complete theElevate 17 Partner Interest Form.

About Chicago State University 

Founded in 1867, Chicago State University (CSU) is the oldest public university in the Chicago metropolitan area and the only four-year Predominantly Black Institution in Illinois. Ranked in the top 4% of U.S. universities for economic mobility, CSU remains a cornerstone of educational equity, access, and community impact on Chicago’s South Side.