Office of Community College Research and Leadership (OCCRL)
Est. 1989 - Equity and Inclusion in Education for All
An initiative in the Department of Education Policy, Organization and Leadership, OCCRL uses research and evaluation to improve policies, programs, and practices that enhance community college education and equity for all learners.
OCCRL is an independent, data-driven research unit within the College of Education. The perspectives expressed on this site and the external links provided do not necessarily reflect the views of our funding partners or the University of Illinois.
Our Four Pillars
Equity-Driven Change
Facilitating systemic changes that improve educational equity for underserved students.
P-20 Educational Pathways
Supporting development of transparent, equitable, and supportive pathways through the educational system for all students.
Transformative Leadership
Building individual and organizational capacity to support rigorous and equitable educational pathways that serve all students.
Public Engagement
OCCRL scholars and staff regularly speak, present papers, lead events, and participate as panelists at education-focused conferences locally, statewide, and nationwide.
OCCRL Projects
Comprehensive Local Needs Assessment Program Review Illinois Illinois Developmental Education Equity in Action Completed Projects SUCCESS: Supporting Universities and Colleges Creating Equitable Student Success Pipeline for the Advancement of the Healthcare Workforce (PATH) Portraits of Community College Student-Leaders: Emerging Visions for the Future
From Her Mother's Kitchen to Chicago's Food Deserts: A UIC Student's Case for Nutrition as Justice
Brianna Guerrier came to the University of Illinois Chicago (UIC) as a transfer student looking for more opportunities. She found them, and then some. Now a senior in UIC’s Nutrition Sciences program, Brianna has channeled those opportunities into action: deep engagement in food policy, a string of leadership roles, and a volunteer record that has made her one of the most visible students in the College of Applied Health Sciences. Read more.
More News in Higher Education
- NSF Set to Issue Lowest Number of New Grants in Four Decades
- Basic-Needs Obstacles Jeopardize Latino Student Success
- How AI May be Impacting the Entry-Level Job Market
- What the Workforce Pell Grant Means for Community College IT Leaders
- Students Demanding Flexible Credentials After High School
- Commentary: The Future of Learning is Moving Into the Workplace
- Commentary: Serving Military-Connected Students is a Strategic Imperative for Higher Education
Our Products
Publications
Our publications assist with research and people's curiosity in the realms of academic affairs, dual credit, foster youth, student services, transfer, and much more.Podcasts
Our numerous podcasts focus on P-20 education, offering an in-depth look at research and leadership for educational equity, justice, and excellence for all.Voices & Viewpoints
Our blog posts provide a voice for students, scholars, and professionals who want to shine a light on equity-centered topics and P-20 education.Videos & Webinars
Our videos and webinars highlight research and evaluation methods to improve policies, programs, and practices in community college education and the workforce.Network News
Our newsletter highlights the dissemination of our publications, webinars, blog posts, and podcasts, and it features the latest news and events in higher ed.UPDATE on Research & Leadership
This OCCRL publication highlights policies, programs, and practices in community college education and the transition for all learners.Join OCCRL's Mailing List
OCCRL's Network News has office updates and higher education news and events.