Office of Access and Engagement
Creating an inclusive experience
The Gies Business Access and Engagement team works to create a college experience where every student feels seen, heard, and valued – through proactive outreach and intentional programming. We champion inclusive access and authentic engagement for all learners by centering equity, building community, and removing barriers to academic and personal success.
Thriving together
Access and Engagement programs help you develop vital communication, leadership, and problem-solving skills, along with transferable knowledge, that you can use throughout your life. Our programming is designed to empower you to lead with purpose. In today’s job market, employers increasingly value expertise in the areas these programs emphasize. By participating, you not only prepare for a career that is meaningful and impactful but also foster your own personal growth and development.
At Gies Business, we believe opportunity should be accessible to all. Access and Engagement is dedicated to supporting under-resourced students and creating pathways that celebrate both academic achievement and lived experience. Together, we’re breaking down barriers and building a community where talented learners from every background can thrive.
Are you a current student interested in joining Access and Engagement?
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Our programming
This program offers an opportunity for incoming students to engage with peers and other Gies Business community members. It includes one-on-one support and resources from faculty and staff at Gies Business, activities specially designed to help ease your transition into the College, and space to begin familiarizing yourself with the campus.
In partnership with Gies Global, Access and Engagement provides opportunities for students to study abroad. Students can engage in hands-on multicultural educational opportunities that prepare them to compete in a global business environment.
This series of interactive workshops is designed to equip under-resourced students with essential networking strategies, core professional skills, and the confidence to navigate the business world successfully.
Emerging Business Leaders
EBL is a summer program designed for high-achieving, under-resourced rising high school seniors. Participants live on campus and learn from world-renowned faculty, work on a capstone group project with other students, and connect with corporate executives to expand their knowledge on business-related careers.
Access and Engagement's Early Arrival program completely shaped my college career. From short-term study abroad trips to Morocco and Greece, to meeting people who are now my closest friends on campus, I could not be more grateful for the opportunities Access and Engagement has given me.
Christine Leung, Information Systems and Marketing, minor in Sustainability at Gies College of Business
My experience with Access and Engagement programs has been amazing, I have found an incredible community I can call home. Andrea and Assistant Dean White have been amazing mentors with providing me with great wisdom in working towards a successful future here at Illinois.
Taniya Williams, Accounting at Gies College of Business