Southern Illinois University Carbondale announced on Apr. 16 that its CPS Scholars program, launched last year, is helping Chicago Public Schools graduates succeed academically and stay enrolled at the university.
The initiative aims to support students from Chicago by providing career-aligned experiences, early career exploration, social and emotional skill-building initiatives, and peer mentorship during their freshman through junior years. The goal is to improve retention rates, foster academic achievement, and help students thrive beyond graduation.
Kristopher Marshall, director of Saluki Student Success Initiatives, said the program focuses on more than just keeping students enrolled. “The CPS Scholars program is not just about retention – it is grounded in the understanding that access alone is not enough,” Marshall said. “True equity requires intentional support, meaningful engagement and an investment in the whole student. Through peer mentorship, career-aligned experiences and holistic support, CPS Scholars creates a pathway that keeps students connected to their Chicago roots while helping them feel supported away from home. At the same time, the program provides real-world experiences that expose students to viable career pathways and prepares them for their future after college.”
Students participating in the program have opportunities for learning both inside and outside of the classroom. A recent educational trip took a group of scholars to Cincinnati where they met with professionals at Fifth Third Bank, Edward Jones financial services firm, Donald Jordan Memorial Chapel, Proctor & Gamble’s Global Innovation team as well as zoologists at the Cincinnati Zoo.
Mariyah Bell, a sophomore majoring in early childhood education from Chicago who participated in both the CPS Scholars program and Cincinnati trip said: “I have gained confidence in myself especially when it comes to stepping outside of my comfort zone and connecting with new people.” Bell added that she has developed meaningful relationships with peers and directors which helped her feel more supported during her studies.
Marshall reported positive results for participants: average GPA rose from 2.29 to 2.53 while retention rates increased from 75.84% to 86.57% by fall semester of 2025—demonstrating what he called “the positive impact” of this approach.
As SIU continues offering these opportunities—including further excursions—the university says it will keep supporting CPS graduates through targeted programming designed around real-world learning.
