University Center of Lake County Offers Programs Through 19 Universities

Patch sat down with Gary Grace, executive director and Dean at the University Center of Lake County, and Tonia Baxter, recruitment specialist/advisor to find out what makes the UCLC unique. Here is an edited transcript of the conversation:

What is the difference between the UCLC and the College of Lake County (CLC)?

In terms of a university education, CLC provides the first two years, typically general education courses. The primarily focuses on junior and senior university level curriculum and advanced educational degrees.

Their focus begins once a student qualifies as a junior at the university. For a student who wants to stay local, students could attend CLC for two years and then transfer to a partner university at the UCLC.

Another difference is that the UCLC has a different business model. Funding is split 60/40 between the state and conference events, which is different from CLC which is primarily an educational institution. In addition, the UCLC has a 501(c)(3) program – a non-taxing body unlike CLC. Even though this facility is called the University Center, it also focuses on building its brand within the business community. Building those relationships with the local industry and business is crucial to its success.

Many people in Lake County think the CLC and the UCLC are somehow connected. This might be partly due to the fact of their close proximity – land was donated by in 1999 to the University Center.

What does the University Center do well?

One key thing the UCLC does is provide excellent customer service. There's a small staff of 12 and these individuals do what it takes to get the job done. It's amazing how many professors will compliment me on the service our staff provides. Clients have nothing but positive things to say about our facility and how they are treated by our staff.

Because the University Center is small, we can be nimble and customize programs. This customizing can assist corporate clients, outreach programs and the academic area too. The center to handle groups of 350 or a smaller group such as 8 to 10 people. Programs can be customized to fit the needs of the clients. Ant the food service and the room accommodations available to UCLC clients are excellent.

UCLC collaborates with 19 universities in Illinois providing a university education in Lake County. Many residents of Lake County are in transition and want to go back to school to finish their BA or obtain another degree or certificate. There are others here who are ready to go back to school and finish their long-term goal of obtaining an undergraduate or master's degree.

What are some of the challenges facing the University Center?

There are certainly a number of challenges in keeping the 90,000 square foot facility operational. We've had a 40% reduction in funding from last year and as a result, lost 3 staff positions. Trying to make this facility as sustainable as possible is a great challenge – something always on our mind.

Another challenge is growing the facility to utilize all its resources. You can plan and strategize about how to make it grow but sometimes there are significant economic factors interfering with the plans. Continuing to provide as many events at the UCLC as possible will continue to expose corporate customers and Lake County residents to this valuable resource.

What are some things you, as the executive director, are most proud of?

Even with this challenging economic climate, there are certainly things to celebrate. The staff is very customer service focused. They'll do what they can to ensure all clients are comfortable and enjoy themselves.

We've had steady growth since we opened, except for one year. And there's a nice 50/50 balance between the master's and bachelor's program offered. The building is conductive to learning as the physical environment is positive and modern. The technology here is cutting edge and designed to be user friendly.

What else about academic programs?

There are 19 participating universities that provide programs of study at UCLC. These programs could be private or public and academic schedules vary between 5 and 16 week modules.

Programs are delivered in many methods, including face to face (traditional); distance learning or online; or a mix of all. The variety of academic programs provides plenty of options and flexibility for a student's education, degrees and certifications.

What are the advantages of UCLC over the competition?

Being small allows the UCLC to be nimble, collaborative, adaptive and engaged in ongoing business and education networking. The current technology also helps keep IT costs under control. With newer equipment, you can keep your support costs down. This is crucial in today's economic situation.

Next, we asked Tonia Baxter, the Recruitment Specialist/Advisor, about her job. What is your typical day like at the UCLC?

Every day is unique. Sometimes my schedule fills up with appointments to help provide structure to the day. Other times, I have some openings, which provides more flexibility and variety.

What are some of the challenges of your position?

It's hard to know what career recommendations to make in today's turbulent economy.

How do students get in touch with you? How are people aware of the program?

I do recruitment presentations about the center's services at many recruiting events. I am also available by appointment. Contact me directly at 847-665-4014 or at tbaxter@ucenter.org.

How does an advisor help ensure that students find the right fit?

There was a man who was interested in going into teaching because he wanted time off in the summer. I worked with him to understand his background, skills and goals. Just because he had a BA in History didn't mean he could begin teaching after acquiring his certification.

I will ask students considering a certain field of study: "Have you volunteered in that area? Have you spoken to professionals in that field to know if you'd like it? Could you possibly work part-time in that field or a similar field to ensure this is something you want to do?" This type of inquiry helps clarify things for both the advisor and student.

How does the selection process work?

I help determine what the prospective student may want while in higher education. I'll ask, "What field of study would best match your passion, goals and interests?" Once a student decides on a field of study, this usually dictates what university they would attend. Admissions, financial aid and other administrative things would be done by that particular university.