NEIU ENLACE Program at University Center of Lake County Supports Future Education Leaders
- University Center
- Jun 12
- 2 min read
Published by: University Center News | 06/12 /2026
Grayslake, IL- At the University Center of Lake County, education is more than earning a degree. It is about creating access, building community, and preparing leaders who understand the students and families they serve. Through the Educators’ Center and Northeastern Illinois University’s ENLACE Higher Education Master’s Program, the University Center continues to support educators, aspiring administrators, and community-focused leaders across Lake County.
The University Center’s Educators’ Center has long been part of this mission. Launched in Fall 2003, the Educators’ Center was created to provide professional development opportunities for Lake County’s K–12 teachers. Since then, it has remained connected to the University Center’s broader goal: helping working adults, educators, and community members continue their education close to home.
Now, with NEIU’s ENLACE Higher Education Master’s Program available through the University Center, students have another meaningful pathway to grow as leaders in education. ENLACE prepares graduate students for leadership roles in higher education, with a special focus on serving first-generation college students, economically challenged students, immigrant students, Latinx students, and students from historically excluded communities.
Learn more about ENLACE Cohort Program 2026
About ENLACE Program
What makes ENLACE especially powerful is its focus on culturally responsive leadership. The program centers the Latinx experience in higher education while also giving students a strong understanding of post-secondary institutions, student support systems, and effective administrative practices. Students are prepared not only to work in higher education, but to become advocates and change agents within it.
For Lake County students, this partnership creates a local opportunity to pursue graduate education without having to travel far from home. Through the University Center, students can access programs from partner universities in a flexible and supportive environment designed for adult learners, working professionals, and those balancing school with family, career, and community responsibilities.
The ENLACE program also aligns closely with the University Center’s commitment to expanding educational access in Lake County. As higher education continues to evolve, there is a growing need for leaders who understand equity, student belonging, cultural identity, and the barriers many students face when pursuing a degree. ENLACE helps prepare graduates for careers in areas such as college admissions and recruitment, multicultural centers, residential life, student affairs, and other higher education leadership roles.
For students who see themselves working in higher education, supporting diverse learners, or leading programs that make college more accessible, ENLACE offers a meaningful next step.
Get Connected and Talk to a trusted Academic Advisor
Schedule an in-person or virtual appointment now at 847-665-4000.
Learn more about NEIU’s ENLACE Higher Education Master’s Program and explore opportunities available through the University Center of Lake County.
University Center of Lake County
1200 University Center Drive, Grayslake IL
847-665-4000
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