Triton College S.E.E.D. Program Provides Students with Alternative Learning Opportunities

RIVER GROVE, Ill. – Seven Triton College students celebrated a major milestone this June as graduates of the Skill Enhancement and Employee Development (S.E.E.D.) program, a hands-on learning experience that helps neurodivergent learners build confidence, career skills and pathways to independent employment.  

Graduate Shantelle, of Bellwood, said the program boosted her confidence and communication skills and helped her discover a passion for math. She is excited to continue her job at Jewel-Osco.

“The S.E.E.D. Program enhanced her people skills,” said Wendy, Shantelle’s mother. “The S.E.E.D. staff was so patient with her. This program expanded her confidence and gave her the courage to keep going.”

Graduate Daniel Guzman of Melrose Park learned how to manage his time, make new friends and contribute meaningfully while working on campus.

“I’m really proud that I was able to help translate for the janitorial staff to my supervisor while working in (Triton’s) R Building,” he noted.

“Daniel really enjoyed the atmosphere at Triton. The program helped him grow socially and navigate everyday events,” added his sister, Idaly Guzman. “He learned how to manage a schedule.”

Dominique Dial, Director of CAAS, said the small cohort model allowed for greater connections and familiarity.  

“For many of our graduates, S.E.E.D. is a way for them to explore careers,” she said. “It shows them a world that they might not have considered.”

Dial added that the program provides encouragement in a welcoming environment.

“Our program imparts exposure to a college campus and college courses. Their work skills develop immensely,” said Dial. “S.E.E.D. allows for greater face-to-face instruction and builds employment skills such as professionalism, social communication, coping skills, job expectations and resume writing. Students have classroom instructions with lectures and hands-on, practical activities.”

“S.E.E.D. is a perfect example of Triton College fulfilling its mission to ensure all members of our community are workforce ready,” explained Hilary Meyer, Dean of Academic Success. “S.E.E.D. is an example of best practice since we frontload career exploration and real-world experiences. It helps our students get to the next level, whether it’s a degree or employment.”

The S.E.E.D. Program graduates included Charles Brauckman, Alessandra Camacho, Daniel Guzman, Shantelle Peoples, Marsh Readus, Jonah Rivera and Mia Stills.

One in five adult Americans identify as neurodiverse, meaning they simply learn differently. Research also shows that 37% of students diagnosed with autism, ADHD, OCD and other neurodiverse conditions report not receiving the necessary accommodations to thrive academically, and neurodiverse individuals are frequently unemployed or underemployed at twice the rate of the rest of the U.S. population. Triton College is working to address these gaps.

Through the S.E.E.D. Program at the Center for Access and Accommodative Services (CAAS), Triton provides neurodivergent learners with opportunities to earn certificates through Triton’s School of Continuing Education. With in-person instruction, employment experiences and individualized support, students are prepped for independent, competitive employment.

For more information, please contact seed@triton.edu or (708) 456-0300, Ext. 3917.

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Media Contacts:
Melissa Ramirez Cooper | melissacooper@triton.edu | 708-456-0300, Ext. 3496
Maryann Dibari | maryanndibari@triton.edu | 708-456-0300, Ext. 3691

 

ABOUT TRITON COLLEGE 
Triton College is a public institution of higher education dedicated to student success. Recently recognized by the Aspen Institute as one of the Top 200 community colleges in the nation, Triton offers more than 130 degree and certificate programs that prepare students to pursue meaningful careers, transfer to four-year universities, and thrive in a global economy. Guided by our mission—Valuing the individual, educating and serving the community—Triton serves nearly 17,000 students annually on its 110-acre campus in River Grove, Illinois. Our dedicated faculty and staff provide high-quality, accessible and affordable educational opportunities that empower students and strengthens the communities we serve. Triton College is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission and a member of The Illinois Community College Board. Illinois is home to 45 colleges in 39 community college districts. Learn more at triton.edu.