College of Education Office of Community College Research and Leadership

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.

OCCRL staff at 2026 retreat in Champaign

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.

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Current OCCRL Projects

Comprehensive Local Needs Assessment Program Review Illinois ICCB Developmental Education Reform 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

Left to right, Carl Wieman, Kathryn Chval, and Nikos Varelas

UIC Recognized for Degree Pathway Program

The University of Illinois Chicago has received national commendation for its leadership in ensuring equitable student success along the path to completing a bachelor’s degree. The school is one of two inaugural recipients of the Association for Undergraduate Education at Research Universities’ Carl E. Wieman Award for Excellence. Read more.

More News in Higher Education

Oct28

Advancing Developmental Education Reform: Lessons from DERA Implementation in Illinois Community Colleges 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM

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.