We’re proud to spotlight a meaningful partnership between the School of Social Work and It Takes a Village Mentorship, highlighting a recent visit from North Ridge Middle School mentees to the University of Illinois. The field trip featured insights from Professor Kevin Tan and engagement with Jennifer Free, MSW ’17, Danville school social worker, Sam Smith, MSW ’94 and Ann-Marie Dittmann from Krannert Center for the Performing Arts. Kelsi Walters, MSW ’23, organized the visit.

This collaboration reflects our campus mission of engagement—fostering mutually beneficial partnerships with local, state, national, and global communities. By sharing knowledge and resources, we help young people imagine their possible selves at the University of Illinois.

During the visit, students explored academic spaces, experienced campus culture, and heard inspiring stories from alumni and staff who once walked similar paths. These interactions created moments of connection and sparked curiosity—encouraging mentees to envision a future shaped by education, creativity, and community support.

Credit to It Takes a Village Mentorship and Center Street Productions for the video.