Initiatives for Student Success In our continuous pursuits of increasing enrollment, persistence, and graduation rates of African descent, AAAN’s Student Engagement unit utilizes effective practices that focus on implementing meaningful activities that are related to learning and personal development.  Our programmatic activities range in scope from pre-collegiate preparation to post-baccalaureate pursuits (i.e. career exploration, professional training, graduate and professional school, etc.). We believe that the very act of being engaged adds to the foundation of skills and dispositions that are essential for thriving here at UIC but also living a productive life after college.

Brothers United in Lunchtime Discussion

B.U.I.L.D. participants

Brothers United in Lunchtime Discussion” (B.U.I.L.D.) This engaging event provides a platform for meaningful conversations and connections among brothers. Don’t miss this opportunity to share insights, build relationships, and enjoy a thoughtful lunch together!

Black 2 School Bar-B-Que

Black 2 School Bar-B-Que participants

Black 2 School Bar-B-Que welcomes new and continuing students to the official start of the Fall semester. This event is designed to expose students to resources and to ensure that students feel welcomed, supported, and integrated into the UIC campus community. Students who attend this event can look forward to the opportunity to network with peers, faculty, and staff in a casual environment. Additionally, this event helps to foster a sense of community among new and returning students, while easing the transition back to college life.

SISTAH Squad

SISTAH Squad assists in the development of female identified students through engagement in workshops and activities that address self-esteem, academics, social and personal development, leadership training, and community building. The goal of the Woman 2 Woman empowerment group is the successful transition. growth, and development for all participants in its programming.

We Are One Retreat

We Are One Retreat is a two-day overnight retreat for incoming students to help them begin networking and making connections before the start of the fall semester. This is one of many signature community building events where students and staff bond through informative workshops, team building, social activities and learn about campus resources.