Category: Announcements

Immigration Past, Present, and Future: The American Dream Reconsidered Panel Reflection

The American Dream Reconsidered Conference is a yearly conference held by Roosevelt University to discuss what the American Dream is to us today. This year’s conference surrounded the topic of Immigration.  

Immigration is one of the most important policy issues for many American today. The topic dominates the media, especially with the 2024 presidential election. But immigration is not just a modern-day issue; the argument has been a steady conversation for many years. With moderator, Professor Sandra Frink (RU), panelists Professor Susan Gzesh, University of Chicago , Michael Jin, University of Illinois Chicago, and Maddalena Marinari, Gustavus Adolphus College, discussed the Immigration Act of 1924, 100 years later. 

The Immigration Act of 1924 severely restricted immigration into the United States.  The Act effectively barred much of immigration outside western Europe, established border patrol, and controlled immigration through quotas. The Act was a way to prevent immigration and maintain an ethnically homogenous country– homogenous, meaning all the same kind, white. This act sought to achieve a homogenous nation through quotas. Previous legislation had been too racially targeted, so quotas were established to make restricting certain people a quantitative matter. Quotas were set by looking at the U.S. census and once a country reached its quota, no more people were allowed in. The Chinese Exclusion Act of 1882 stopped Chinese laborers’ from entering the country and stopped all Chinese immigrants from claiming citizenship. This act came after the completion of the transcontinental railroad. With this legislation still in place in 1924, Chinese immigration was suspended completely because they could not claim citizenship.  

Mexican immigration was not included in this legislation. This was because of the need for specific types of labor at that time. Mexican immigrants were allowed to come in because the country needed them, but only on a temporary basis. This is similar to how Asian immigrants were pushed out after construction on the transcontinental railroad was finished. After the need for labor was gone, the United States wanted to return to a homogenous nation.  

In the present day, the legacy of this legislation is still around. The Immigration Act of 1924 set a precedent for the US to enact similar types of harsh laws. In recent years, the United States has felt made a point to block borders, separate families, and deny asylum. But as Michael Jin points out, the legacy of this act is so important because, without its repeal in 1965, the room we are sitting in would look very different. The rich diversity that makes America so unique would not exist if the Act of 1924 stayed in place.  

Looking to the future, immigration is likely to remain an important topic. With the 2024 presidential election only days away, immigration is one of the most frequently referenced policy discussions. Republicans are pushing for mass deportation in another Trump presidency and harsh laws on who we let into the country. Democrats support earned pathways to citizenship but still want limitations.  

With these policies, past, present, and future in mind, it calls into question the American Dream. Who is the American Dream for? Who does it work for a who does it work against? As the panelists pointed out, the notion of the American Dream is exclusionary to Native Americans, Asians, and anyone else who is affected by harsh immigration laws. “The American Dream” that says anyone can succeed here, clashes with the legislation put in place.  

Meet Our Program Assistants!

As we settle into the Fall 2024 semester, the Honors Program Office would like to take a moment to welcome our new team of Honors Program Assistants! Bringing a diverse range of backgrounds and talents, our team is committed to enriching the Honors experience and supporting the academic journey of students in the program. The Program Assistants will keep our student body up to date through an active and engaging social media presence, and will provide in-depth information and stories on our blog. Camila, Mary, and Roan are excited to introduce themselves to our Honors Program community!

Camila:

My name is Camila and I am a sophomore majoring in sustainability studies, from the west of the city in the Berwyn/Cicero area. I was always interested in urban planning, because cities have always surrounded me, and as I moved through my education, I noticed the inequities embedded within the physical structures of our environments. Roosevelt resonated with me as a social-justice oriented institution, because of its location, and it was close to home. Although Roosevelt does not have a program directly related to urban planning, after a one-on-one shadowing opportunity with Professor Mike Bryson, I was convinced to ultimately study at Roosevelt. I was also intrigued by the Honors Program, because it resonated with my learning and provided me with a large amount of financial support, which alleviated most of my stress relating to the college application process. 

As I gained more familiarity with the Honors Program as a student, I felt more comfortable and began engaging more with my courses. For example, I joined the Honors Exchange last year, which was the most memorable learning experience of my freshman year. I was thrilled to learn that the Honors Program office was looking for another Program Assistant during my second semester of freshman year. I resonated greatly with my Honors educational experiences and was excited to learn more through this position. Although I joined a bit later in the school year, I was still able to learn so much about our Honors office operations. I had the guidance and support of my three peers, who helped me learn about the many running pieces of the office, like the social media, blog, newsletter, club, and much more. This experience was great, and I enjoyed being part of the office as a student worker. I am super excited to continue working this year as the Lead Honors Program Assistant. My peers last year provided me with a welcoming and comfortable environment to learn and explore this position, and I hope to do the same this year. Together, we are working on many projects, ensuring this year will be memorable and filled with excitement! 

Mary: 

Hi! I’m Mary and I am a Junior here at Roosevelt this year. It’s my first year working in the Honors Program and I am so excited to start seeing the business side of the program in addition to the student side. I am a criminal justice major with a legal studies minor. Being a part of our school’s justice program has been so impactful in my learning journey and I have gained so much knowledge that I had no idea about before coming here. I am originally from Lafayette, Indiana, home to Purdue university, where I took an online college course before coming to Chicago called ‘Introduction to Serial Killers’. I decided to take this course because I graduated high school a semester early, but still wanted to wait until fall to go to college. This course also allowed me to get a sneak peek at if this was truly the major I wanted to pursue and I fell in love with it from the start. I chose to come to Roosevelt because my dad used to work at the University Center and I always knew I wanted to live there. Roosevelt seemed like the best fit for me based on the three colleges that live in that building. Three years later and I am so glad I made that choice. I sort of fell into the Honors Program my second semester here. I didn’t know our school had one, but I received an email saying that I would be a good fit and that I should consider joining; obviously I said yes! Going along with that, I was always curious about the students behind the desk in the Honors lounge and when I received the encouragement to apply, I was thrilled! This year, I am going to help with writing blog posts and coming up with fun ideas for the Honors Program social media accounts. I am very excited to see what lies ahead with this job for the upcoming semester, and figure out my place in this team.

Roan: 

Hello! My name is Roan Daley and I am a sophomore here at Roosevelt. I am from Essex Junction, Vermont and I am a criminal justice major. I have had an interest in criminal justice from the time I visited the F.B.I. museum during an 8th grade field trip to Washington, D.C. After doing a technical program in high school, I knew criminal justice was what I wanted to pursue. What brought me to Roosevelt was a couple of things. I absolutely love the location, Chicago is my favorite city and I love going to a school where the city is our campus! I also love the social justice model that Roosevelt strives for. Social justice is something that is very important to me especially in relation to my criminal justice studies. What drew me to the Honors Program was the commitment to interactive learning such as discussion and collaboration-based classes. The Honors Program also offers scholarships for students which was a huge help for my academic success. I applied to be an Honors Program Assistant because I loved my first year in the Honors Program and wanted to expand my involvement. Going into my first year as an Honors Program Assistant, I am very excited for everything we have planned. My background is in social media and I look forward to the fun and creativity that comes with that! 

Looking Ahead:

As you can see, our Program Assistants have established themselves as proud Rooseveltians and Honors students, connecting deeply to the mission of Roosevelt and the ethos of the Honors Program. This position provides a unique learning experience, and our team is eager to positively impact our community. Equipped with their various skills and interests, Camila, Mary, and Roan are well-prepared to undertake the tasks ahead of them. Through the work produced by our program assistants, Honors can continue providing comprehensive information and updates for program members that will boost engagement and encourage participation in Honors initiatives. Stop by AUD 711 Monday through Thursday between 9 am and 4:30 pm to be greeted warmly by these excellent students and enjoy the vibe of the Honors office! !

Let’s Vote 2024!

As the Honors Program, we emphasize the importance of an active student body and civic engagement. Voting is one of the most important ways to make your voice heard in order to shape your community. This guide will help you navigate your right to vote in order to be prepared for this coming election on November 5th!

Criteria to vote:

  • Be at least 18 years old
  • Be a United States citizen 
  • Reside in the jurisdiction for at least 30 days before the election

How to register to vote:

Out of State Students

Voting by mail is a great way for out of state students to vote. However, regulations, deadlines, and applications for mail-in ballots differ from state to state. To see if you can still receive your mail-in ballot visit Absentee & Early Voting and select your state. Click here to see deadlines for each state.

College students do have a unique choice. You can either vote in your home state or in the state you attend college (you can only vote in one place, though!). Where you want to vote could depend on a number of things. Ask yourself: What issues are important to you? Which candidates are running? Where do you want your voice to be heard? How will your vote be impactful? The choice is completely up to you. If you want to vote in Illinois instead of your home state follow the steps below to register. 

There are two ways to register to vote in Illinois at this time. You can: 

  • Register Online:
    • You can register online to vote up to 16 days before the election (Deadline is Sunday, October 20th, 2024)
    • A state-issued ID is required to register online 
    • Register here
  • Register in Person:
    • You can register to vote in person with a certified registrar by visiting: 
      • Cook County City Clerk Locations
      • A township, city, or village clerk 
      • State government offices, like a drivers license facility, and public assistance and military recruitment offices
        • You can register to vote when you renew or obtain your state ID or driver’s license 
      • A certified Deputy Registrar 
    • Make sure to check hours of operations to ensure that these locations are open and available. You must provide two forms of identification, and one must include your current address. 

You can also register to vote on Election Day, but only at your home precinct. You must also bring two forms of identification including your current address. 

If you reside in the City of Chicago, you can use this voter tool to verify your registration, find your nearest polling place or voter center, verify the status of your Vote By Mail application or Permanent Roster enrollment, and find the contact information. Cook County voters have access to this tool to find the same information. 

Although the presidential election is what we might be hearing the most about, there are many local elections in Chicago to be aware of as well. This year, you will have the opportunity to vote for the Cook County State’s Attorney. The Cook County State’s Attorney is responsible for prosecuting misdemeanor and felony crimes in Cook County. This position, as the top prosecutor job of the county, is often seen as a link to establish bigger policies and political tone of the state. In 2023, the incumbent Kim Foxx, announced that she will not seek re-election. This is a race to watch, with Democratic candidate Eileen O’Neill Burke, and Republican Candidate Bob Fioretti. 

This election is also monumental because for the first time in history, Chicago voters can select a partially elected school board. Currently, Chicago Public Schools has seven governor appointed members. This will expand to 21 members, 10 of whom are publicly elected. 

5 Reasons Why you Should Vote

  1. National elections are not the only elections

Local elections are incredibly important for the way our government functions. Local elections are a direct reflection of your community. Voting, not just in federal elections, is your chance to elect people who represent your own ideas and values. Elected officials make big decisions impacting our everyday lives. Voting in local elections is the chance to use your voice and make a difference in your community.

  1. It’s your own money 

How much resources will your local schools receive? How much money will go to fixing that one pothole? How funded is public transportation? You are a tax-paying citizen, and you should care where your money is going. Voting is your way to control what the government is doing with your money. 

  1. Your Vote DOES count

Many people hold the idea that their vote doesn’t count. Even if you’re in a big city or a state dominated by one party, your vote still counts. Presidential races are getting closer and closer. As of recent polls, Kamala Harris is in the lead by only 2.5 points. Yes, victory of one candidate by just your vote isn’t likely but, as mentioned before, local elections are just as important. In state and local elections, your vote matters more than you know. You could be the change. 

  1. You ARE affected 

“Why should I care, it doesn’t affect me?” is something you might have heard someone say or even said yourself. But when it comes to voting, you are affected. Have you ever run over a pothole? Taken public transportation? Gone to the hospital? Gone to school? Had a job? The list goes on. The people who make decisions that change our systems in place are voted into office by us. 

  1. It’s your right! 

The right to vote, for many people and groups, has not always been guaranteed and has been at times a hard-fought battle. There are still groups who experience disenfranchisement regarding the right to vote. By voting, you are maintaining the right to vote for yourself and others. Voting is a privilege and a way to represent yourself and your community. 

Take a couple minutes out of your day to register to vote and review your ballot! The deadline to register online in Illinois is Sunday, October 20th. To see a sample ballot, go to ballotpedia.org and type in your address. It will show you a sample ballot as well as information about every candidate. Voting is important and your vote DOES matter. See you on Election Day!

By Camila Hernandez and Roan Daley

References

Ballotpedia, ballotpedia.org/Main_Page. Accessed 10 Oct. 2024.

Communications, NAU. “Why We Vote.” The_NAU_Review, news.nau.edu/why-we-vote/. Accessed 10 Oct. 2024.

Elections, Illinois State Board of. “Welcome to the Illinois Online Voter Registration Application Website.” Illinois Online Voter Registration Application: Home Page, ova.elections.il.gov/. Accessed 10 Oct. 2024.

“Hours and Locations: Cook County Clerk.” Hours and Locations | Cook County Clerk, www.cookcountyclerkil.gov/locations. Accessed 10 Oct. 2024.

“How to Register in Illinois.” Vote.Gov, vote.gov/register/illinois. Accessed 10 Oct. 2024.

Illinois Election 2024 Guide: Local Voting Information – Axios Chicago, www.axios.com/local/chicago/2024/09/23/illinois-election-voter-guide-2024. Accessed 10 Oct. 2024.

“Voter Registration.” Voter Registration | Cook County Clerk, www.cookcountyclerkil.gov/elections/voter-registration. Accessed 10 Oct. 2024.

“Your Voter Information.” Your Voter Information | Chicago Board of Elections, chicagoelections.gov/voting/your-voter-information. Accessed 10 Oct. 2024.

Honors Thesis Defense – Spring 2022

Hello Honors Community,

On Friday, April 22, from 10:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., we encourage you to join us for the Spring 2022 Honors Thesis Defense Presentations which will take place in the Sullivan Room and Ida B. Wells Lounge. See what an Honors Thesis Defense is like before starting your own Honors Thesis experience!

“On the honor of Honors”

Hello Honors Community,

Happy Monday!

An amazing episode of the University’s “…And Justice for All” podcast entitled “On the honor of Honors,” features a conversation among two brilliant Honors students, Mia Moore and Onteya Zachary!

Mia and Onteya are heavily involved in many Honors initiatives and their conversation offers a fascinating snapshot into their lives—personal, intellectual, academic—as Honors students. On this episode, there is no host. Just Mia and Onteya, talking about everything from their names to finding themselves at Roosevelt.

Listen here: “On the honor of Honors”

Round-Up!

Hello Honors Community– it’s time for a round-up!

Honors Contracts: Are you doing an Honors contract this semester? If so,        remember that completed contract proposals are due on Friday, February 4th to honors@roosevelt.edu by 3pm!

Honors Blackboard: Now is a good time to re-familiarize yourself with the RU Honors Program Blackboard site. It is a great source for information about campus events, internship and job opportunities, and more. For example, there is detailed information about a summer 2022 leadership program at Women Employed that would be a great opportunity for students interested in non-profit work. Check it out!

FAFSA (2022-2023): We wanted to let you know that the 2022-2023 FAFSA is now open and you should complete it! Find it at https://studentaid.gov/h/apply-for-aid/fafsa. The FAFSA is necessary for determining your qualifications for financial aid and Federal Work Study positions, so be sure to get on it ASAP!

Covid-19: Did you know that every home in the US is entitled to 4 FREE rapid Covid-19 tests? Order them here: https://www.covidtests.gov/

Office of Career Services: Spring 2022 Semester Workshop Series!

Hello Honors Community, 

The Office of Career Services has shared their Spring 2022 Semester Workshop Schedule! These workshops will be offered both in-person and virtually. 

Members of the career services team will discuss a range of topics including Getting Started with Handshake, Creating Compelling Resumes, Strategies for Internship and Job Search, Networking, and many more. The first workshop will begin Tuesday, January 25th.

For detailed information regarding each session and to RSVP, please visit roosevelt.edu/workshops! If you have any questions or concerns, contact Nancy Inkertsiah, Associate Director of Career Services, at her email ninkertsiah@roosevelt.edu. 

LinkedIn 101 Workshop: Are You LinkedIn or Left Out?

Hello Honors Community, 

Join us Thursday, February 3rd for a virtual, LinkedIn interactive workshop. Audra Duren, account director at LinkedIn, will discuss professional branding, completing your profile, finding jobs, and requesting career advice on LinkedIn. 

Attendees will also have the opportunity to meet one-on-one with LinkedIn employees and members to further explore their career interests, review their profiles and receive advice on building their professional brand!

Please note, attendees must register for the event and have a LinkedIn account created prior to the event. A zoom link will be provided 48 hours before the event. Register using this link.

We hope to see you there!

Honors Program Blackboard

Honors Students!

Be sure to regularly check the Honors Program’s Blackboard site! There, you will be able to find postings about events, internship and job opportunities, information about workshops, and much more. Right now, you can find detailed information about a 2022 summer internship with Women Employed and a list of workshops that you can attend offered through the Office of Career Services. Remember to continue checking the site for updates!

Honors Program Film Series: Catch Me If You Can

Honors community,

The Honors Program is hosting a discussion of the 2002 Steven Spielberg film, “Catch Me If You Can”, starring Leonardo DiCaprio and Tom Hanks! Our discussion will be led by Professor Natasha Robinson (Criminal Justice) and Professor Andy Trees (Political Science) on Tuesday, February 15th, from 4:30 to 6:00 pm via Zoom. Please view the film in advance using this link. We hope to see you there!