Associated Colleges of Illinois Programs

Associated Colleges of Illinois seeks to address critical challenges that private higher education can help solve through collaborations among its member colleges and universities, businesses, nonprofit partners, and public and private funders. Today, ACI programs address two priorities established by the U.S. Department of Education: 1) Improving the outcomes of higher education by raising graduation rates among low-income, minority, and first-generation students; and 2) Reducing college debt by improving the efficiency and effectiveness of higher education and by providing financial aid that makes private higher education affordable to an increasingly diverse student population.

BravenX Fellows, Fueled by ACI

A college degree remains the single most important factor for achieving financial freedom. However, many graduates do not obtain a strong first job, putting their future dreams and financial freedom at risk. How does ACI help member school students overcome these barriers and achieve success? One way is through our partnership with Braven and their virtual BravenX program.

BravenX delivers a 14-week virtual fellowship through which member college students gain the skills, confidence, networks, and experiences they need to launch a strong career. Fellows meet weekly for 2-hour sessions with a small virtual cohort. In place of college credit, Fellows who successfully complete the rigorous program receive a $500 stipend.

Through six months after graduation, Fellows can engage in continuing BravenX activities that prepare them to thrive in the workplace, including mock interviews, career-specific peer cohorts, and notice of relevant internships and job openings.

Peer Mentoring

ACI’s Peer Mentoring Program matches minority, low-income, and first-generation freshmen enrolled at ACI member institutions with trained and supervised Peer Mentors from similar high school backgrounds. By helping at-risk students navigate the critical first year of college, ACI’s Peer Mentors promote college persistence and degree completion among the students they serve.

Scholarships and Emergency Financial Aid

Investing in Associated Colleges of Illinois’ Scholarships and Emergency Financial Aid is an important strategy in advancing ACI’s mission to improve college graduation rates. ACI institutions already post higher than average graduate rates among low-income minority, and first-generation students, and generous financial aid plays a significant role in this achievement.

ACI Micro-Internships by Parker Dewey

Students from ACI-member colleges and universities can apply for micro-internships — short-term, paid, professional assignments — similar to those completed by new hires or interns. These micro-internships are facilitated via the Parker Dewey platform, making it easy for companies, schools and students to benefit from the program.