Malcolm X College is enhancing its Westside Learning Center, marking a significant step forward for community education and resources in Garfield Park. Construction has commenced on a new Community Center for Training and Learning, set to broaden the college’s west campus footprint at 4624 W. Madison St.
This ambitious $17.5 million initiative represents the second phase of development for the satellite campus. Following a $1.5 million investment in 2018 that introduced advanced biology labs, this new 3,000-square-foot expansion will greatly enrich the Westside Learning Center. The upgraded facility, currently known for its robust nursing and health science programs, will incorporate vital student-focused areas. These include dedicated meeting rooms, recreational spaces designed for relaxation and collaboration, and a versatile event space suitable for local businesses and community gatherings.
Funding for this transformative project includes a substantial $9 million commitment from state funding, secured by State Representative La Shawn Ford. City Colleges will provide the remaining balance, as previously reported by the Chicago Sun-Times.
“This expansion creates vital new spaces for West Side community members to connect, innovate, and prosper. We envision residents from across Austin embracing this hub for meetings and celebrations,” stated Mayor Brandon Johnson at the groundbreaking ceremony on Thursday. He further emphasized the project’s significance, noting, “These educational spaces are also being developed by Black leaders, reinforcing our commitment to local empowerment.”
Mayor Brandon Johnson with Malcolm X College West Campus student at groundbreaking for Westside Learning Center expansion
Malcolm X College President David Sanders highlighted the expansion’s role in building on the college’s recent success in boosting community enrollment. He noted impressive growth since 2021, with Black male enrollment increasing by 35 percent, Black female enrollment rising by 28 percent, Hispanic male enrollment up by 31 percent, and Hispanic female enrollment increasing by 17 percent, according to City Colleges data.
“This expansion is more than just constructing a building; it’s a profound investment in our community’s future,” remarked student Shanbril Whooper, a mother studying to become a certified medical assistant. “This Westside Learning Center campus is invaluable, allowing students like me to effectively balance family responsibilities with educational pursuits, directly bringing opportunities into our neighborhoods. I can conveniently drop off my 8-year-old son at his school and then attend my classes.”
To discover more about the programs and opportunities available, please visit the Malcolm X College website, part of the City Colleges of Chicago system: https://www.ccc.edu/malcolm-x/home/
