About Us

About us

ABOUT US

THE CHALLENGE

Many community college students don’t receive the support they need to earn a  degree. Too often, high-potential community college students tackle the challenges of school, work, and life without a support system. More than half of Illinois community college students attend community college, but only one in four of them will graduate with a degree within three years. OMD changes that.

THE SOLUTION

One Million Degrees is the only organization of its kind in Illinois, and one of very few in the country, providing needed supports to community college students. We believe that improving community college graduation rates by providing meaningful, holistic support to students for whom a college degree matters most is key to building a more just, more inclusive, and more equitable workforce and economy.

One Million Degrees (OMD) provides tools, resources, and guidance that put community college students on an accelerated career path to economic mobility.

OUR PROVEN PROGRAM MODEL

We firmly believe that a purposeful support system can transform outcomes for community college students. OMD provides community college students with an opportunity for goal-setting, accountability, and community through our comprehensive scholar development model. through this, OMD offers:

  • Relationship-based support from staff that’s customized and proactive
  • Performance-based financial support driven by clear, frequent feedback
  • Intentional community-building with volunteer coaches and peer groups
  • Opportunities to learn, practice, and apply workplace skills

OUR CORE VALUES

"OMD NOT ONLY HELPED ME FINANCIALLY; OMD WELCOMED ME INTO A COMMUNITY, AND IT IS THAT COMMUNITY THAT ALLOWED ME TO THRIVE."

-OMD Alumna and Chicago Police Officer Maria Barraza

THE CHALLENGE

65% of Illinois public college students attend community college, but only one in four of them will graduate with a degree within three years. OMD changes that.

One Million Degrees is the only organization in Illinois and one of few in the country dedicated to providing comprehensive supports to low-income, highly motivated community college students to help them succeed in school, in work, and in life. From tutors and coaches to financial assistance and professional development, OMD offers the support that empowers scholars to transform their lives and those around them for generations. OMD Scholars graduate at twice the state average with the skills and experiences necessary to launch economically mobile careers.

Currently in its 15th year of programming, OMD continues to expand the number of scholars it supports to be a catalyst for change in Chicago. OMD partners with 10 Chicago-area community colleges, including the seven City Colleges of Chicago, Harper College, Prairie State College, and South Suburban College. OMD serves about 2 scholars across the region in the 20021-2022 academic year.

Click on the links below to learn more about the comprehensive approach OMD employs to ensure our scholars reach their full potential.

THE IMPACT