For Immediate Release
Contact
Tyler Hough
(773) 363-1312
CHICAGO, IL – The Chicago Center for Urban Life and Culture has been recognized with the 2024 Society for Experiential Education (SEE) Outstanding Leader in Experiential Education: Community-Based Organization award. SEE acknowledges the organization’s longstanding dedication to bridging the gap between higher education and community-engaged learning through our innovative and impactful experiential learning programs in Chicago.
The Chicago Center’s programs provide students with real-world experiences that challenge them to think critically, engage with diverse communities, and develop a deeper understanding of race, power, privilege, and their roles as active citizens. By immersing students in the vibrant and complex city of Chicago, they have the opportunity to live, learn, and grow in one of the nation’s most dynamic urban environments.
Each year, SEE honors individuals and organizations that have made significant contributions to the field of experiential education. This recognition, specifically awarded to community-based organizations and nonprofits, celebrates those who have demonstrated exceptional leadership, innovation, and commitment to advancing experiential learning opportunities.
"This award is a testament to the hard work and dedication of our entire team," said Executive Director Tyler L. Hough, MS. "For more than five decades, we have been committed to creating meaningful learning experiences that empower students to become thoughtful, engaged citizens. We are honored to be recognized by the Society for Experiential Education and remain steadfast in our commitment to fostering connections between higher education and community life."
For more than 55 years, the Chicago Center has been at the forefront of this movement, helping to shape the future of experiential education through its semester-long programs, which emphasize urban living, professional development, and personal growth. In 2023, the Chicago Center expanded its reach to scale the organization nationally, including the redevelopment of The Philadelphia Center.
The recognition from SEE underscores the Chicago Center’s commitment to fostering meaningful connections between students and the community through its First Voice instructional approach. The Chicago Center’s approach to experiential education is rooted in the idea that education should be both transformative and socially responsible. Through innovative program design, implementation, and evaluation, the Chicago Center has consistently demonstrated its dedication to not only enhancing student learning but also contributing to the betterment of society.
For more information about the Chicago Center and its programs, please visit www.chicagocenter.org.
About the Chicago Center
For nearly 55 years, the Chicago Center has leveraged the power of place and people to create transformative student learning experiences. Today, the Chicago Center prepares students to be global citizens with greater self-awareness and career preparedness. We help students gain practical experiences through internships and develop a critical consciousness to change the world. By cultivating strategies for thinking and cultural learning through a community-based approach, the Chicago Center prepares our alumni to be lifelong learners and change agents in communities across the globe.