History
Significant dates in IACAC history
The origin of the Illinois ACAC is found in the national organization which was founded as ACAC on March 23, 1937, in Oak Park, Illinois. A conference of 13 midwestern college admission “field workers” met on that date to discuss ethical issues in the profession.
Later that year, 18 midwestern colleges established the Association of College Representatives, which became ACAC in 1939. Other significant dates in IACAC history include:
1947 Eight state secretaries appointed to coordinate college days in eight states.
1955 Secondary school members added to the organization — with two of the first three National Board members being from Illinois.
1957 Constitution adopted to formalize Illinois ACAC.
1958 The first Directory of Illinois Admission Counselors produced.
1961 First Illinois ACAC Newsletter distributed to members.
1968 ACAC became NACAC with headquarters in Illinois.
1969 Illinois Statement of Practices and Courtesies adopted.
1970 First IACAC Summer Institute held at Millikin University.
1973 First National College Fair held in Chicago.
1977 First student Hotline sponsored by IACAC.
1980 Absentee voting approved.
1982 Produced video: “Financial Aid – The Myth and the Money.”
1985 Voting Rights for individuals approved.
1986 Name changed to parallel NACAC (dropped “s” in Admissions); first membership brochure produced; mentorship program established; independent counselors eligible for voting membership; Professional Education Director position added to the Board.
1987 IACAC incorporated as a not-for-profit corporation; National ACAC moved headquarters from Illinois to Alexandria, Virginia.
1987 Newcomer Recognition award was established.
1989 Site of NACAC PACT training workshop.
1991 Membership in IACAC exceeded 1,100.
1993 IACAC adopted regional structure; two Director of Professional Education positions created—one for Northern Region; one for Southern Region.
1996 Name changed to Illinois Association for College Admission Counseling.
1997 Recognition Award renamed in memory of Patricia A. Kasowski.
1997 IACAC granted 501(c)(3) (nonprofit) status by the IRS.
1998 IACAC site established on the World Wide Web.
1999 President’s Service Recognition Award established.
2002 Illinois College Exposition (ICE) programs established.
2004 Newcomer Award renamed in memory of James A. Alexander
2006 Membership in IACAC exceeded 1,800.
2008 Project Reach established to assist a school with financial need.
2010 President’s Service Award renamed in memory of Molly K. Arnold.
2010 Inaugural Camp College held at Bradley University.
2011 First Middle Management Institute held at Elmhurst College.
Originally compiled by Gwen Kanelos with additional information provided by Donna Epton.
