Workforce Equity Initiative Grant

The purpose of the WEI grant is to accelerate the time for 60% of African Americans enrolled to enter and succeed in postsecondary education/training that leads to employment in high skilled, high wage, and in-demand occupations.   

The purpose of the WEI grant is to accelerate the time for 60% of African Americans enrolled to enter and succeed in postsecondary education/training that leads to employment in high skilled, high wage, and in-demand occupations. This includes a Pathway to Success Plan for each student that includes advising and wrap-around student support services that address the individual barriers to student success. Furthermore, we include a robust “Finish What You Started” recruitment effort targeting students that were close to degree completion but dropped out within the last two years. Overall, the WEI grant focuses on supporting students’ completion of accelerated certificates and pathway programs in high demand, high skill, and high wage industries.

Application Eligibility and Contacts 

To become eligible for this grant opportunity, applicants must attend a virtual orientation and must complete the WEI Pathway to Success Contract and complete an interview with a member of our team.
 

 

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Brian Stanley, M.P.A., M.A. Manager - bstanley1@prairiestate.edu 708-709-3561 (ATOC) / 708-709-3554 (Matteson Area Center) Google Voice: (708) 584-0755 Office A115

Desirée Anderson, Ph.D Dean of Equity Inclusion danderson37@prairiestate.edu 708-709-7950

Lisa Porter Retention Advisor lporter7@prairiestate.edu 708-709-3618, Google Voice: 708-304-3021

Chauna Powell Retention Advisor - cpowell8@prairiestate.edu Office Number: 708-709-3656, Google Voice: 708-232-0724

Denise Redick Outreach Coordinator - Workforce Equity Initiative (WEI) Grant dredick@prairiestate.edu 708-709-3533 Google Voice: 708-586-7832

Non-credit Courses 

  • Automotive Technician
  • CDL
  • CMA (Clinical Medical Assistant)
  • Dialysis Patient Care Technician
  • Forklift
  • Human Resource Management - aPHR Certificate
  • Medical Central Service Technician (Sterilization)
  • Phlebotomy Technician
  • OSHA

Credit Courses

  • Automotive Technician
  • Basic Firefighter I
  • Basic Firefighter II
  • CNA (Certified Nursing Assistant)
  • Dental Assistant
  • Dental Hygiene
  • Firefighter/ EMT Certification
  • Google IT
  • HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning)
  • Nursing (A.A.)
  • Paramedic
  • Physical Therapist Assistant
  • Surgical Technology
  • Welding

 

*Credit Courses must be completed by September 30, 2025

In an effort to identify needs and resources, students receiving WEI grant funds are expected to speak with the Retention Advisor monthly by email, phone or on campus visit.

If you receive WEI Grant funding, you are expected to find employment and/ or enhance your career. We will continue to follow up with you 2 to 10 months after the successful completion of your program.