The 2025 CPASS Saturday Academy launched this fall with energy, excitement, and a renewed commitment to college and career readiness.
On September 27, Scholars from the Classes of 2026, 2027, and 2028 participated in our first College Prep Workshops, diving into interactive sessions designed to build practical skills for college success:
- Class of 2026: Family Financial Aid Workshop, College Interview Skills & Mock Interviews, College Applications
- Class of 2027: Financial Aid & Scholarship Research, College Search & Fit (Academic, Social, Financial)
- Class of 2028: Exploring Career Interests & College Majors, Building a Strong Academic & Extracurricular Profile
Scholars were fully engaged throughout the day—asking thoughtful questions, collaborating in groups, and connecting their academic goals to real-world pathways.
We are especially grateful to Pete’s Market, who generously donated a fresh fruit tray for our students, and to Chartwells, who provided lunch for all Scholars and volunteers. Your support nourished both body and mind, and helped make our first Saturday a success! We also extend our thanks to our host campus Illinois Institute of Technology (IIT), for providing classroom space and support that made the day possible. Your partnership nourished both body and mind and helped make our first Saturday a success!
Launching College Credit Courses
On October 18, CPASS celebrated another major milestone—the first College Credit Day of the Saturday Academy. Scholars officially enrolled in courses aligned with either the Health Science Track or General STEMM Track, beginning college-level studies in:
- Public Health
- Anatomy & Physiology
- General, Organic & Biochemistry (GOB)
- AI & Communications
- Math Methods
These rigorous courses are taught by university professors and industry professionals who volunteer their time to inspire the next generation of STEMM leaders.
A heartfelt thank-you to our host campus, Lewis University, for providing classroom space and continued partnership, and to all the volunteers and instructors who make this transformative learning experience possible.
Together, these sessions mark an exciting start to the 2025–26 academic year. The Saturday Academy continues to provide Scholars with the tools, knowledge, and confidence to excel in college and beyond.