TRIO helps first-gen students achieve success

three people sitting at a table smiling at the camera

Chantal Tellez, Brionna Ramirez, and Dre Davidson are looking forward to sharing their stories of personal growth and perseverance as a first-generation student during the fifth annual First-Generation Friday Pathways to Success Summit November 3-4 at Illinois State University.

Student Danielle Diamond’s journey from school librarian to PULSE program

Abstract Variations sculpture by Ernest Trova with DeGarma Hall in the background

Former school librarian and current student Danielle Diamond is enrolled in the Department of Special Education’s Paraprofessionals Unlocking Licensure in Special Education (PULSE) program. She was inspired to make a career change by a group of special education teachers and students while working as an early childhood and elementary school librarian. Diamond transformed the educational experience of two special education classes by creating unique and accessible library programming.