The Mannie L. Jackson Illinois Academic Enrichment and Leadership Program (I-LEAP) helps students meet their academic and professional goals.
Being a part of I-LEAP was one of the most influential aspects of my freshman year. Walking in with support right off the bat was an incredible feeling. I knew that I-LEAP faculty and other students in the program were always there for me as I adjusted to college. I-LEAP has already pushed me to be a better student and person by exposing me to new ideas, skills, people, and resources around campus. I look forward to continuing to make my mark around campus and in the world with the support of I-LEAP.
Ariana Sanchez, I-LEAP Student
I-LEAP has allowed me and others to expand our perception of what we are able to contribute on campus and to society as a whole. By providing mentorship, a supportive environment, and numerous opportunities to grow, I-LEAP continues to help students cultivate adept learning habits, which we will carry on for the rest of our educational journeys. After joining I-LEAP, I am glad to say I have felt exponentially more confident in my abilities to succeed as a first-generation college student at U. of I.
Rahil Saddrudin, I-LEAP Student
Mission
I-LEAP provides support to undergraduates enrolled in the College of Applied Health Sciences who are first-generation students, student athletes, and those recognized by the President Awards Program (PAP) and Educational Opportunities Program (EOP). Through bi-weekly one-on-one counseling, mentorship, workshops, academic skills development, leadership training and referrals to resources, I-LEAP aims to increase student success at the University of Illinois and within the campus community.
Our Namesake: Mannie L. Jackson
Class of 1960
Mannie L. Jackson, a Fighting Illini legend, and his family donated $2 million to create I-LEAP. As shown in “The Ripple Effect,” a documentary on the Big Ten Network, I-LEAP has supported student scholars since 2007.
Jackson is a Naismith Basketball Hall of Famer and president of Boxcar Holdings. He is also an author and the owner of the Harlem Globetrotters. A former Fighting Illini star basketball player from 1957 to 1960, he is an alumnus of AHS.
Program Benefits
- With an average GPA of 3.13, I-LEAP students earn better grades than students outside of the program.
- Participants in the program receive extra guidance that makes the transition to college smooth and successful.
- The I-LEAP Academic Skills Specialist helps students maximize their coursework and achieve their career goals.
- Countless opportunities to develop the leadership skills necessary for a successful career.
- With more than 160 participants, I-LEAP provides students a campus community on their first day of class.
Program Eligibility
Participation in I-LEAP is by invitation only. Eligible students will receive invitations after accepting their offer of admission to the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign.
Recent Student Award Recipients
I-LEAP Student Portfolios
I-LEAP Team
Elizabeth Mason
Director
Email: mason6@illinois.edu
Phone: 217-300-7137
Office: 123A Huff Hall
Joseph
Cross
Academic Skills Specialist
Email: jlcross@illinois.edu
Phone: 217-244-3582
Office: 124 Huff Hall
Brittany Lopez
Academic Skills Specialist
Email: blo23@illinois.edu
Office: 123B Huff Hall
Jazmin Pazmino
Academic Skills Specialist
Email: jpazmin2@illinois.edu
Office: 124 Huff