At Oakton College, we recognize diversity, equity, and inclusion as foundational principles that affirm the inherent value and belonging of every individual within our community. We are committed to fostering an environment where students and employees are supported through intentional strategies and evidence-based practices that promote their academic, professional, and personal success.
As an institution dedicated to continuous improvement, we acknowledge that achieving these objectives is an ongoing process. While we may encounter challenges along the way, Oakton remains committed to authentically reflecting and serving the diverse identities and experiences of our community. Through this work, we strive to create an inclusive and equitable environment where all individuals are empowered to contribute and thrive.
Oakton College is dedicated to fostering an environment of equity, inclusion, and non-discrimination. Our commitment is reflected in programs and initiatives designed to ensure every member of our community can succeed and feel a sense of belonging.
These programs are open to all and fully comply with federal and state non-discrimination laws. Oakton College does not discriminate on the basis of race, sex, ethnicity, color, national origin, religion, disability, or any other protected characteristic, nor do we offer special benefits or preferential treatment based on any protected characteristic. This is outlined in our Non-Discrimination Policy 1100.
Oakton places great value on embracing diversity and advancing equity. Oakton sets and pursues annual affirmative action goals that reflect the diversity of the Oakton district and the college’s enrollment profile. The College prides itself in building a remarkably diverse executive leadership staff, which is attributed to the College’s commitment from the top and an infused commitment to diversity and equity within the institution's mission and strategic goals.
Department Assistant, Student Life
The AANAPISI program provides federal funding for colleges and universities and works to improve the availability and quality of higher education for Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) college students.
The Building Lasting African Culture and Knowledge (B.L.A.C.K.) Student Success Program supports Black students during the enrollment, retention and completion of their education at Oakton.
The B.L.A.C.K. Student Success Program provides educational experiences and programs to address the needs and concerns of Black students in higher education.
Contact: 847.376.7796
SLCI provides inclusive programs and services to enhance the college experience for all of Oakton’s diverse students by providing 40 plus student organizations and clubs, the Emerging Leaders Student Leadership Program, the Student Government Association (SGA), and the Student Activities Programming Boards.
Contact: 847.635.1815
Over thirty co-curricular programs help to fulfill the college’s Equity Matters strategic commitment by providing a rich diversity of student organizations. Faculty, staff, and administrators serve as advisors. Students and employees can access diverse learning experiences through their participation in dynamic and distinctive cultural experiences provided by the Black Student Union, Hillel, the Mongolian Club, or many more.
Currently available diverse student groups are:
If you or a guest are in need of a room for lactation, or if you need a moment to get away to reflect, meditate, or pray, you can reserve the spaces below on each campus. Reservations are for 30-minute blocks of time.
To reserve space on the Des Plaines campus, contact the Office of Student Affairs at 847.635.1739 during business hours. Employees can contact Human Resources at 847.635.1675 during business hours to reserve either space. Public Safety should be called after hours at 847.635.1880.
On the Skokie campus, students, employees and guests can reserve a room by contacting the Division of Business and Career Technologies office at 847.635.1910.
Lactation Rooms
2827, Des Plaines Campus
B209 and B217, Skokie Campus
Meditation/Prayer Room
2148, Des Plaines Campus,
190, Skokie Campus
The language labs provide support to students taking courses in Arabic, Chinese, French, German, Hebrew, Hindi, Urdu, Italian, Japanese, Korean, Polish, Russian, Spanish, and English as a Second Language (ESL).
Services provided include multimedia PCs with Internet access, a library of ESL audio materials with books, modern language and ESL software, and DVDs. Limited modern language tutoring is available for enrolled language students. The labs also offer ESL and various modern language conversation groups each semester. Lab personnel can assist with lab equipment and the selection of appropriate materials.
The labs are designed to be used primarily by students enrolled in Oakton credit courses, and offer priority access to teachers and students in these classes. On a space-available basis, students enrolled in Adult, Continuing Education, and Workforce Development courses or interested in using the labs’ materials and facilities may be accommodated.
The labs operate according to the Oakton academic calendar. During breaks between semesters, lab hours may vary. View the lab web page for more info.
Contact:
Gender Identity Recognition: Oakton College will treat students in such a way that is consistent with their gender identity when they or their parent(s) or guardian(s) notify the college that they will assert a gender identity different from the previous representation or records.
The College employs the following procedures: