20 Years of Transforming Lives: University Center of Lake County Celebrates Two Decades of Service, Innovation, and Community Impact
- University Center
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Over 13,815 students served, $53,000 in scholarships, and a legacy of empowering Lake County’s future.
written by: Izobella E. | University Center of Lake County | June 5, 2025
Grayslake, IL — In 1999, when the concept of a consortium-based higher education center was first introduced in Lake County, skeptics questioned its sustainability. But twenty years later, the University Center of Lake County has not only endured—it has flourished. As it celebrates its 20th anniversary, University Center reflects on two decades of empowering students, strengthening the workforce, and fostering community partnerships that change lives.
Founded by the Illinois Board of Higher Education in 1998 and housed in its dedicated facility since 2005, University Center is a first-of-its-kind model in the region. It brings together 13 top-ranked public and private universities under one roof to provide fully accredited bachelor’s, master’s, doctoral, and certificate programs tailored for working adults and nontraditional learners.
List of Accredited University Partners
“Back in 1999, many believed this model would fail,” recalls Arun Agrawal, an early supporter and advocate of University Center’s mission. “But we’ve proved them wrong—University Center is stronger than ever and poised to grow for another 100 years.”
A Model for Equitable Education and Workforce Readiness
In 20 years, the University Center has served as a springboard for educational advancement and workforce development in Lake County and beyond. It has:
Helped 13,815 underserved adult learners earn Undergraduate and Graduate degrees from top Illinois universities.
Provided over $53,000 in scholarships through the University Center Scholarship Fund since 2023.
Offered financial aid education and support to over 15,000 students, helping remove financial barriers to degree completion.
Created award-winning outreach programs like First-Generation College Outreach and the Educators’ Center of Lake County.
Launched the University Center Food Pantry in 2024 to combat student hunger with local donor support.
University Center’s commitment to community extends beyond academics. The Center played a pivotal role in assisting local school districts in times of crisis. When facilities in North Chicago District 187 and Grayslake District 46 shut down for the winter, University Center opened its doors to over 900 middle school students, providing a temporary but stable educational environment.
In 2023, University Center was awarded a $13.8 million Full-Service Community Schools (FSCS) grant, the only institution in Illinois selected for this multi-district award. This initiative deepens its partnerships with local schools, creating vibrant, interconnected community hubs that serve children and families holistically—from early childhood education to college and career readiness.
A Hub for Health, Equity, and Growth
Through collaborations with Rosalind Franklin University and the Illinois Department of Public Health, UCenter has hosted free flu and COVID-19 vaccine clinics. It also houses organizations dedicated to a cradle-to-career pipeline, including those offering services in early childhood education, workforce development, health, financial literacy, and housing.
“The University Center is more than a place to earn a degree—it’s a place where the entire community can grow,” said Dr. Myra Gaytan, Executive Director. “From education to economic mobility, we are here to serve.”
Looking Ahead—and Honoring the Past
UCenter’s legacy is made possible by the vision and leadership of countless champions, including Theresa Bartel, Charlie Evans, Governor George Ryan, Kathy Johnson, Dr. Bryan Watkins, Dr. Lynne Reynolds, Heather Patay, Dr. Gretchen Naftz, Richard Anderson, Hilary Ward Schnadt, Patricia Jones, Ed Gonwa, and many more—whose names are proudly displayed on the gold dedication plaque at the University Center entrance.
As it looks toward the next 20 years, University Center of Lake County remains focused on expanding access to higher education, adapting to workforce demands, and leading with innovation. Its mission is clear: to be the region’s hub where education, opportunity, and community come together.
