On May 26, 2026, the Program Review Advisory Committee (PRAC) hosted its final meeting of the 2025–2026 academic year at the Illinois Community College Board (ICCB) office in Springfield. The annual PRAC convening highlights the shared commitment of ICCB and OCCRL to partner with practitioners statewide to strengthen and support the program review process.
This end‑of‑year gathering centered on reflection surrounding what the committee built together during the past year, what members learned from one another, and which topics should guide PRAC’s work in 2026–2027. Members emphasized the value of the committee as a space for sharing practices across Illinois community colleges. One member noted that program review “is a living document and should be in use all the time, not just during the program review time.” Another highlighted the practical benefits of the committee’s discussions, saying she “can take small things from this committee and bring them to her institution for improvement.” ICCB also provided updates on the new program review manual for FY 2027–2031.
The committee then engaged in a small‑group assessment activity, reviewing selected program reviews to identify strengths and opportunities for improvement. Members emphasized that the quality of a review is shaped less by its length and more by the consistency and coherence of the information presented. They underscored the importance of grounding each section in relevant data—whether statistical analyses, internal reports, surveys, or other institutional evidence—and ensuring that conclusions build cumulatively across the document rather than appearing as isolated responses. The activity highlighted how a well‑constructed program review can serve as both a tool for quality self‑evaluation and a catalyst for institutional growth.
This meeting also marked the conclusion of service for three PRAC members: Dr. Joanne Ivory of Harper College, Michelle Adams of City Colleges of Chicago, and Dr. Cathy Taylor of Elgin Community College. Each was recognized for her contributions and dedication during her four‑year term.
As the 2025–2026 PRAC cycle ended, members reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening program review practices across Illinois through collaboration, reflection, and shared learning. They left with a renewed appreciation for consistent, evidence‑based review processes and for maintaining program review as an active, ongoing institutional practice. Looking ahead to 2026–2027, PRAC remains dedicated to supporting meaningful program review work that advances institutional improvement and student success statewide.
Those interested in learning more about PRAC’s work may contact OCCRL at occrl@illinois.edu. Individuals interested in serving on the committee may apply. Board positions open in the spring prior to the term of service and remain open until the 2026–2027 seats are filled.