Op-Ed Contribution

Dr. Stanley Fields, President of Morton College, Cicero, Illinois.

As a new academic year begins, we welcome another cohort of students, faculty and staff to campus. While the rhythm of a school year may seem familiar, the work we do at Morton College in Cicero, IL is anything but routine. Each semester brings renewed opportunity to change lives, advance careers and strengthen our community.

At Morton College, a commitment to access, quality and affordability guides everything we do. We serve a diverse population of roughly 7,100 students, ranging from recent high school graduates preparing for an associate degree to adult learners completing general education requirements prior to transferring to a four-year university. Common to all is a desire to improve their future without taking on excessive debt. With tuition set at $88 per credit hour, Morton College offers among the most affordable education options in northern Illinois while maintaining strong academic and career outcomes.

Morton College Cicero, IL

We are continuously investing in student success by improving facilities, expanding classroom space, and strengthening partnerships with area employers and four-year institutions. Technology enhancements make it easier for students to communicate with instructors and access resources, while campus improvements support a modern learning environment. Our wireless campus was nationally recognized for safety and ranked the 4th safest in the nation in 2015, underscoring our commitment to a secure and supportive atmosphere for learning.

To help students begin college sooner, we continue to expand our concurrent enrollment partnerships with local high schools, including Morton East and Morton West. These programs enable motivated high school students to earn college credits early, reduce future cost and ease the transition to higher education.

Lifelong learning is central to our mission. Thousands of residents participate in our English as a Second Language (ESL) classes each year — offered on campus, at neighborhood centers and even at local workplaces — because language skills strengthen careers, family life and civic participation. Our adult education offerings similarly support residents looking to complete their high school equivalency. In 2009 we celebrated 22 graduates from our adult education program; this year we honored 56 graduates. Even amid state funding challenges, our board prioritized resources to preserve these critical options for the community.

Graduates who earn a High School Equivalency Certificate through our adult education program become eligible for up to two years of free tuition through the Bridge program, providing a clear pathway from adult education into college credentials and career advancement.

We understand that students face practical barriers to pursuing a degree. To support student-parents, Morton College operates a full-day preschool on campus at no charge, ensuring young children receive quality early education while their parents attend classes. Access to reliable childcare is a meaningful step toward making higher education attainable.

We also design programs for learners with specific needs. Our STEM summer camp introduced elementary-aged children to science, technology, engineering and math through hands-on activities and will return due to strong interest. In addition, a new summer program for young adults with special needs offers recreational and fitness-focused experiences that promote health, social engagement and independence.

Academic advising is a priority: every enrolled student is assigned an advisor to help map their academic plan, select courses and connect with tutoring and counseling services. Plans are underway to open a new Student Success Center where students can access advisors, tutors and counselors in one central location, further strengthening retention and completion efforts.

Beyond the classroom, Morton College encourages civic engagement and leadership. The Morton Ambassadors Program coordinates volunteer opportunities and represents the college at charity events, while our participation in the Illinois Latino Policy Forum Leadership Academy supports students developing the skills and relationships needed to lead in their communities.

We continue to enhance signature programs, including our nationally recognized nursing program, expand study abroad opportunities, and cultivate employer relationships to ensure career-oriented learning that leads to meaningful outcomes. These efforts reflect our mission to provide high-quality teaching and learning opportunities that strengthen the diverse communities we serve.

This is more than another school year. It is a fresh start for students at every stage of life — a chance to build skills, earn credentials and pursue their goals. We invite prospective students, families and community members to join the Morton College family and take part in the many pathways we offer to lifelong success.