Real Impact stories spotlight the real difference people, programs and partnerships – across the system – make on the state’s economic, social and cultural well-being. For more, meet Andrea.
By Laura Mabry
Harumi Barron may never forget the day she learned about Hope Chicago. Walking in, she knew it wasn’t a typical Benito Juárez Community Academy assembly. Parents’ attendance was mandatory. Apprehension evaporated, though, when Barron and her classmates saw the banners and T-shirts.
“They announced Hope Chicago meant going to college for free. It blew my mind when I realized they meant all of us,” she said. “Everyone was smiling and celebrating.
“Right away I wanted to share about Hope Chicago with my dad. I wanted him to know he didn’t have to carry the weight of paying for college. I wanted him to feel relieved.”
Barron joins the first cohort pursuing higher education or vocational training debt-free thanks to Hope Chicago. The program is available to about 4,000 students at five Chicago high schools – many from historically underrepresented groups – plus one parent or guardian each. Student support covers tuition and fees, room and board, books and a laptop, plus a yearly stipend.
“While U of I System financial aid nearly doubled in the last decade, Hope Chicago serves as another game changer for placing a college degree within reach. Learners of all kinds have so many paths to careers they’re passionate about at our universities,” said Nick Jones, system executive vice president and vice president for academic affairs. “Hope Chicago’s life-changing opportunities for students and families also strengthen and add diversity to the Illinois workforce.”
Navigating college
Barron now attends her dream college, University of Illinois Chicago (UIC). She found the urban campus welcoming from the start.
That doesn’t mean the elementary education major wasn’t nervous.
“It’s hard when you’re in a new environment. You worry you’ll be judged,” said Barron, who calls her first math class her favorite. “It was in a big lecture hall with lots of students. “But you still can make friends with the person sitting next to you.”
Beyond academics, Hope Chicago helps students adjust to college life and explore careers.
“As you can imagine, first-year students might feel confused or overwhelmed. Hope Chicago’s Campus Contacts serve as liaisons and advocates for Hope Scholars,” said Kara Holloway, UIC director of scholarships.
“It’s key to the program that Campus Contacts at each university help Hope Scholars successfully navigate and thrive. We have a wealth of resources and opportunities to share.”
Family influence
Barron grew up in Pilsen, a predominantly Latino community. Her father, Julio, has installed hardwood flooring since they moved to the United States from Mexico two decades ago. Her mother, Susana, stayed home to raise Barron and her siblings, Susana, 15, and Julio, 13.
“It’s a big responsibility being first generation and Latina,” Barron said. “When my dad calls me, he always says he’s my number one supporter. To represent my community this way is heartwarming.”
Her father plans to take advantage of the classes and vocational training Hope Chicago offers.
“My dad has attended meetings with Hope that explain the choices offered, and he is looking at options for a trade program,” Barron said.
With family always top of mind, she takes being a role model seriously.
“My sister and brother tell me they want to be like me,” she said. “I tell them to be even better.”
The loving big sister even helped them learn English.
“I love engaging with children. It will be a gift to share knowledge when I’m a teacher,” she said, adding she plans to stay in Chicago after graduation.
Lasting impact
In the system’s first cohort, UIC welcomed 108 Hope Chicago students. Twenty-eight Hope Chicago students attended University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign (UIUC), with two attending University of Illinois Springfield.
That bodes well for a trend the system and universities want to continue. A growing number of graduates from U of I System universities choose to stay in Illinois. Nearly 75% remain here and contribute to the state economy, up from 64.5% in 2017.
UIUC Chancellor Robert Jones serves on the Hope Chicago board of directors.
“Dr. Jones is a welcome addition to the team,” Hope Chicago CEO Janice K. Jackson said. “His dedication to youth and education, along with his higher education experience, will impact both Hope Chicago as an organization and the students and families we serve.”
Other Hope Scholars likely echo how Barron articulates the program’s impact.
“Without Hope Chicago, I would have to work 10 times harder to pursue what I’m passionate about,” she said. “It’s an amazing gift not to worry about financial barriers.”
The University of Illinois System creating unique pathways for learners from all walks of life is just part of what makes us Altogether Extraordinary. To share a story idea, please message lmabry@uillinois.edu.
