By Kyle Southern, Ph.D.
In 2025, higher education—and the economic mobility that comes with a college degree—faced unprecedented challenges. Diminished federal policies, weakened protections, and dismantled core functions of the U.S. Department of Education all left college students more vulnerable than ever.
The response closer to home showed our strength. Illinois advocates rose to the occasion to defend immigrant communities, fight for holistic student supports that improve completion rates, and safeguard the research and data needed to make informed, effective policy decisions.
Yet in the face of these obstacles and glimmers of hope, the Partnership for College Completion’s commitment does not waver. Throughout 2025, PCC navigated a leadership transition, expanded our team, strengthened our capacity, and emerged more resilient and focused than ever.
As we look ahead to 2026, PCC remains determined to provide solutions that center student success. Guided by our three policy pillars—access, affordability, and accountability—we will continue to work with Illinois’ leadership and advocates to advance legislation that ensures all Illinoisans have fair and meaningful access to college and university pathways.
Though much has changed since our founding in 2016, the past decade has made one truth abundantly clear: the right to higher education must be protected. We stand firm in our resolve to produce high-quality research, implement data-informed advocacy, and strengthen partnerships needed to advance equitable access and student completion. Our state, and their future deserve nothing less.
Help Us Make a Difference
PCC launched a $10,000 end-of-year campaign, one thousand dollars for each year we have stood with students who face the greatest barriers to success. Your support today will ensure we can continue to stand firm for Illinois students.
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