The graduation rate for Latino students at UIC is less than 50%. In an effort to address Latino student retention, the John Paul II Newman Center is seeking to support and expand University outreach to these students. An introductory lunch presentation, hosted by Mr. Arthur Velasquez, took place on June 11 at the Newman Center to discuss the issue. Mr. Velasquez invited guests from across Chicago, and from various backgrounds, including business, education, government, and community development.

Many schools and programs exist to assist Chicago youth on the grammar and high school levels, with the goal that they matriculate into colleges and universities. Comparatively fewer services exist to ensure that these students ultimately graduate. The graduation rate for Latinos, who comprise roughly 20% of a typical first-year class at UIC, is dramatically lower than other demographic groups.

Mr. Velasquez described his motivation for hosting the lunch. “This is an issue that is important to our Church and important to the future of Chicago. The Latino population is central to the future of the city. UIC is a special place when you look at its location and the large number of Latino students enrolled there. We want to make sure that these students graduate and that’s why we brought together a group of people who understand the issue and share the goals of the Newman Center. Hopefully, this is a start.”

To learn more, or how you can get involved, please call Paul or Brian at the Newman Center at 312-226-1880.