South Suburban College (SSC) is unveiling a series of engaging events celebrating National Civility Month throughout August. The college invites the public and students to participate in activities that foster respectful interactions and cultivate a civil environment. This initiative aligns with National Civility Month, emphasizing the importance of collaboration and unity in promoting a culture of civility.
August kicked off with a Civility Awareness Campaign across the college's social media platforms on the first of the month. "In today's society, mutual respect has become a rare commodity. As neighbors and citizens, we are responsible for nurturing our community by extending a helping hand, living by the golden rule, and choosing unity over isolated struggles", stated SSC Student Trustee Jamesina Collier.
South Suburban College kicked off August with the following engagements for students:
Fall Term Kick-Off - August 21:
Civility posters across the Main Campus
Civility ice cream at the Main Campus for SSC students
Civility swag bag distribution in the SSC Circle on the second floor of the Main Campus featuring empowering affirmations for SSC students
In addition to student-focused activities, the college will facilitate coffee conversations and employee professional development opportunities throughout the month. These initiatives aim to enhance education and awareness while providing a platform for collective dialogue promoting civility.
South Suburban College extends a warm invitation to the public to participate in the highlight event of the month:
Non- Violence Through Civility Panel Discussion
Thursday, August 31, 2023
10:00 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.
SSC Performing Arts Center on the first floor of the Main Campus
The panel discussion will feature SSC students and community experts engaging in conversations about nonviolence through civility. Moderated by Phillip Bradley, President of Nonviolence Works, a non-profit organization based in Chicago, Illinois, the panel will explore the vital role of civility in fostering a peaceful society.
SSC Trustee Anthony Williams from Dolton, Illinois, with over two decades of experience in social services and education, will also be a panelist. The discussion addresses violence as a public health crisis and explores ways to create a more civil society. Trustee Williams remarked, "Civility is vital for a healthy civilization and is needed for our youth. I am glad SSC is championing this noble cause.” More panelists will be announced closer to the event.
South Suburban College is additionally excited to host an Author Spotlight and Roundtable Discussion with Dr. Danielle J. Buhuro on August 30th from 11:00 am – 2:00 pm, at the SSC library. Dr. Buhuro will conduct a book reading and signing of her work, "Is There a Heaven for a G? A Pastoral Care Approach to Gang Violence," at the SSC Library on the first floor of the Main Campus.
Throughout August, SSC invites the community to participate in these events, promoting civility and respectful interactions. For more details and updates, please contact Zanetta Miller, Executive Director of Public Relations and Resource Development, via email at zmiller@ssc.edu or by phone at (708) 596-2000, ext. 5846. The SSC Main Campus is located at 15800 South State Street, South Holland, Illinois.
