Who is impacted?

The CLC Honors Program has had a transformative impact on students who face unique personal, academic, or financial challenges. While the CLC Scholars Program is an outstanding opportunity, it is important to recognize that the Honors Program serves an entirely different group of students—those who may not meet the highly competitive criteria of the Scholars Program, but still have the potential to excel when given the right support. Many students who could benefit from the Honors Program are not in a position to participate in the Scholars Program due to various personal circumstances, such as financial constraints, work schedules, family responsibilities, or other life challenges that prevent them from meeting the specific demands of the Scholars Program. Unlike the Scholars Program, which often requires full-time enrollment, a higher level of academic performance, and significant extracurricular involvement, the Honors Program is designed to be more accessible and flexible, offering a pathway to academic achievement for students who may not fit the traditional mold but are deeply committed to their education.

For many students, the Honors Program has been a life-changing opportunity, offering access to a supportive community, personalized mentorship, and resources that allow them to overcome personal obstacles and succeed academically. However, the Honors Program is not as widely advertised or accessible as the Scholars Program, and not all students are aware that such an opportunity exists. As a result, many capable students, especially those from underrepresented backgrounds, are unaware of or unable to participate in the program that could make the difference in their academic and personal development.

What is at stake?
The potential suspension or reduction of the CLC Honors Program threatens to remove a key pathway to success for a wide range of students. This program is more than just an academic track—it is a critical support system that offers opportunities for scholarships, personal growth, and academic excellence. If the program is eliminated, countless students who need this inclusive and supportive environment will be left without the resources and opportunities they deserve. This will create a gap in equity, limiting access to the kind of transformative experiences that the Honors Program provides, and undermining the College of Lake County’s commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion. The absence of this program will harm the very students the college strives to serve—those who have the drive to succeed but need the right platform and support to do so.

Why is now the time to act?
Now, more than ever, we must stand together to preserve the CLC Honors Program. This is a critical moment for the college to reaffirm its commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion by ensuring that every student has access to the tools and resources needed to thrive, regardless of their background or circumstances. The Honors Program has proven to be an essential resource for students who may not have the opportunities or the ability to participate in the CLC Scholars program. We cannot afford to wait—if action is not taken now, we risk losing this essential program and the countless opportunities it provides. Let’s act swiftly and ensure that the Honors Program remains a beacon of hope, diversity, and excellence for all students at CLC.