Office of Community College Research and Leadership (OCCRL)
Est. 1989 - Equity and Inclusion in Education for All
An initiative in the Department of Education Policy, Organization and Leadership, OCCRL uses research and evaluation to improve policies, programs, and practices that enhance community college education and equity for all learners.
OCCRL is an independent, data-driven research unit within the College of Education. The perspectives expressed on this site and the external links provided do not necessarily reflect the views of our funding partners or the University of Illinois.
Our Four Pillars
Equity-Driven Change
Facilitating systemic changes that improve educational equity for underserved students.
P-20 Educational Pathways
Supporting development of transparent, equitable, and supportive pathways through the educational system for all students.
Transformative Leadership
Building individual and organizational capacity to support rigorous and equitable educational pathways that serve all students.
Public Engagement
OCCRL scholars and staff regularly speak, present papers, lead events, and participate as panelists at education-focused conferences locally, statewide, and nationwide.
OCCRL Projects
Comprehensive Local Needs Assessment Program Review Illinois Illinois Developmental Education Equity in Action Completed Projects SUCCESS: Supporting Universities and Colleges Creating Equitable Student Success Pipeline for the Advancement of the Healthcare Workforce (PATH) Portraits of Community College Student-Leaders: Emerging Visions for the Future
U of I System Launches Transfer Drive to Support Community College Transfers
The University of Illinois System is launching Transfer Drive, which provides a full range of support for income-eligible students transferring to its three universities from select Illinois community colleges. Each university is partnering with a community college to connect students with a dedicated transfer coordinator and milestone-based help with expenses. Research shows services like these can double graduation rates for low-income students. Read more.
More News in Higher Education
- Summer Research Opens Doors for College Students
- The Sandwich Generation is Showing Up in College Classrooms
- Tulsa Community College's Orientation Programs Get New Students Prepared, Engaged
- Connecting Students to Employers Through MentorLinks
- Commentary: States Within Reach of Fixing the Teacher Pipeline Shortage by Utilizing Technical, Community Colleges
- Commentary: Community College Instructors Bring Astronomy Textbook Into 21st Century
Our Products
Publications
Our publications assist with research and people's curiosity in the realms of academic affairs, dual credit, foster youth, student services, transfer, and much more.Podcasts
Our numerous podcasts focus on P-20 education, offering an in-depth look at research and leadership for educational equity, justice, and excellence for all.Voices & Viewpoints
Our blog posts provide a voice for students, scholars, and professionals who want to shine a light on equity-centered topics and P-20 education.Videos & Webinars
Our videos and webinars highlight research and evaluation methods to improve policies, programs, and practices in community college education and the workforce.Network News
Our newsletter highlights the dissemination of our publications, webinars, blog posts, and podcasts, and it features the latest news and events in higher ed.UPDATE on Research & Leadership
This OCCRL publication highlights policies, programs, and practices in community college education and the transition for all learners.Join OCCRL's Mailing List
OCCRL's Network News has office updates and higher education news and events.