Richard J. Daley College, Anixter Center Celebrate Third Graduating Class of After 22 Program (Chicago, IL) – City Colleges of Chicago, Richard J. Daley College, and the Lester and Rosalie Anixter Center celebrated the third graduating class of the After 22 Occupational, Life and Academic Skills (After 22/OLAS) program, recognizing 14 students who completed the transition program designed for young adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
The completion ceremony was held Friday, July 17, at the Beattie Theatre on the Richard J. Daley College campus. Students were joined by family members, friends, elected officials, and leaders from City Colleges of Chicago, Daley College, and the Anixter Center to mark the milestone.
The After 22/OLAS program serves young adults who have aged out of special education transition services, providing continued access to higher education, workforce development, internships, and employment opportunities. Recognized as a Comprehensive Transition Program (CTP), the initiative helps participants prepare for independent living and meaningful careers through flexible academic instruction, leadership development, and job skills training.
Dr. Isaac Zúñiga, president of Richard J. Daley College, said the program reflects the college’s commitment to providing inclusive educational opportunities.
“I’m excited to celebrate our outstanding students who have successfully completed the After 22/OLAS Program,” Zúñiga said. “This incredible program offers academic instruction and educational support to young adults with cognitive disabilities, helping them experience the college journey as they work toward meaningful careers. It aligns with Daley College’s mission to empower our diverse community by providing innovative education and programming in a supportive and inclusive environment.”
Bridget Glavaz, vice president of Marketing and Strategic Partnerships at the Anixter Center, said the partnership demonstrates how education, employers, and community organizations can work together to expand opportunities for people with disabilities.
“The After 22 Program demonstrates what is possible when education, community partners, and employers work together to create meaningful pathways for young adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities,” Glavaz said. “We are proud to partner with Richard J. Daley College to help make that vision a reality. Congratulations to our third cohort of After 22 students. Your determination, commitment, and perseverance have inspired us all, and we celebrate this significant milestone and the bright futures that lie ahead.”
The program addresses a gap in services that many young adults face after turning 22, when they are no longer eligible for special education transition programs. Rather than waiting years to access additional services, participants receive individualized educational plans based on their interests and abilities while developing workplace skills such as communication, professionalism, self-advocacy, and navigating college and employment settings.
Students also gain practical work experience through internships both on the Daley College campus and with employers across Chicago. The Anixter Center works with community partners to match participants with internships and competitive employment opportunities while providing ongoing support for both students and employers.
Graduate Tommy Cameron said the program helped him prepare for the workforce and his educational future.
“I joined After 22 to get better experience and to help me look for jobs,” Cameron said. “My favorite part of the class is asking for help if I get stuck on anything. My next step is to go to a four-year college.”
City Colleges of Chicago serves more than 73,000 students annually through its seven colleges and several satellite campuses, while the Anixter Center provides services and support to individuals with disabilities throughout the Chicago metropolitan area.
Richard J. Daley College, Anixter Center Celebrate Third Graduating Class of After 22 Program
