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Center for Equity, Diversity and Inclusion

Melany Villagomez and a student having a snacks and chats session in the EDI center
A snacks and chats session with 3 students alongside Kendra Souligne of Financial Aid and Melany Villagomez in the EDI Center sitting at a table
2 students sitting down with Melany Villagomez having a discussion in the EDI Center
Kankakee Community College Center for Equity, Diversity and Inclusion

Center for Equity, Diversity and Inclusion

The Center for Equity, Diversity and Inclusion is on the first floor near food services, behind the "Cavs Corner" windows. Here, you'll find:

  • A welcoming space for all students

  • An open environment to relax study or connect

  • Computers, printer, and access to resources

  • Tv, Books, and media for exploration of diverse perspectives

  • Snacks available to support student well-being

  • A scenic view of the college grounds and the river

EDI Center Mission: The KCC Center for Equity, Diversity and Inclusion is committed to fostering an environment of awareness, opportunity, and a sense of belonging for all students, faculty and staff. This commitment is demonstrated by support for stuent expression and openness to brave and courageous conversations, and promotion of retention, matriculation and academic success. The EDI center is KCC’s hub for cross-cultural education, affirmation, celebration, and an ever growing network of resources and support.

EDI Center Vision: KCC is dedicated to enhancing quality of life through learning. Our vision is to build a strong community of civically engaged, life- long learners and global citizens. We seek to dismantle barriers to academic and social success and strive to cultivate a safe, diverse and inclusive campus where all individuals, regardless of background can thrive.

Cultural Celebrations: Monthly events will highlight global cultures and traditions through educational experiences, community gatherings, and service opportunities. All students are welcome.

Student Interest Groups: The Center for EDI will support student led groups focused on shared interest, values, or cultural exploratation for the purpose of fostering community, dialogue, and collaboration.

Campus Partnerships: The Center for EDI will partner with student life, financial aid, advising, athletics, and other departments across campus to build bridges and relationships to enhance overall student experience and accessibility to existing campus resources and services.

Student success initiatives: Programs like student success mentoring are designed to support student acheivement through mentorship, leadership development, and academic support. Students are paired with professionals in their field of interst for career insights, networking, and real world advice. Open to all students.

Professional Development, Seminars, Workshops: The Center for EDI will host speakers, film screenings, lunch and learns, and other educational forums to come together to explore dialogue in a respectful environment.

EDI Support Request Form:  KCC Equity, Diversity & Inclusion Services Request Form

Events

Photo of Kendra Souligne
Kendra Souligne
Director of Financial Aid & Student Engagement

815-802-8556

Photo of Melany Villagomez
Melany Villagomez
Coordinator of Equity, Diversity, & Inclusion Center

815-802-8563

Kendra Souligne
Interim Diversity Committee Co-Chair
815-802-8556
ksouligne@kcc.edu