Illinois Center for Equity in Education

Program Overview

The Illinois Center for Equity in Education is dedicated to addressing the state's crisis in connecting Black communities to higher education. Through research, policy development, and practice, we aim to bridge the equity gap for Black students in Illinois. This initiative convenes diverse stakeholders, including employers, educational institutions, legislators, philanthropy, and community organizations, to collect data, release research, and identify effective policies and practices.

 

Program Need

In response to the significant decline in Black student enrollment and retention in Illinois higher education, the Equity Working Group for Black Student Access and Success was established in 2020. The statistics highlight a severe inequity:

* Illinois Board of Higher Education 2023-2024

 

* Illinois Board of Higher Education 2023-2024

The Action Plan, released by the Equity Working Group, provides solutions to address these disparities and improve outcomes for Black students in Illinois.