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 & Leadership, OCCRL uses research and evaluation at Illinois 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 in this publication and the external links provided do not necessarily reflect the views of our funding partners or the University of Illinois.
OCCRL Receives 2025 Presidential Citation of Excellence Award from The Council for the Study of Community Colleges
The Office of Community College Research and Leadership (OCCRL) was the recipient of the 2025 Presidential Citation of Excellence Award from The Council for the Study of Community Colleges at this year’s CSCC Conference, where the theme was “working in solidarity for equitable community college futures.” Presented by outgoing CSCC President Dr. Xueli Wang, OCCRL was recognized as a transformative leader and ray of hope in the field of community college research, leadership and practice.
“The visionary leadership of the three directors over the generations has made unprecedented contributions to our field,” Wang said of OCCRL.
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.
Current Reads
Voices and Viewpoints
Encompassing OCCRL's four pillars for well over a decade, Voices and Viewpoints blog posts have provided a voice for students, scholars, and professionals who are looking to lead by shining a light on equity-centered topics and happenings in P-20 education.
Publications
Our publications are designed to assist people's research and curiosities in the realms of academic affairs, dual credit, foster youth, student services, transfer and more. A dropdown menu and search bar will assist you in finding topics.
OCCRL Projects
Comprehensive Local Needs Assessment Program Review Illinois Illinois Developmental Education Equity in Action Completed Projects Culturally Responsive Teaching and Leading NSF INCLUDES Aspire Alliance Adult Learner Guidebook
News
Registration Now Open for 2025 OCCRL Equity Academy at Heartland Community College Dean Chrystalla Mouza Reflects on College of Education Successes During Three-Year Tenure The Power of Community and Legacy at the CTE Leadership Collaborative Convening Seventeen Equity-Minded Institutions Gather in Person for the First IDEEA Exchange
Our Products
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OCCRL's Network News has office updates and higher education news and events.