Kankakee, IL – Olivet Nazarene University students are getting firsthand, professional experience while working with the City of Kankakee. Inspired Strategies Agency (ISA) was originally formed in 2015 by four public relations and strategic communication students. The student-run program quickly grew to providing media relations services throughout Kankakee County. The City of Kankakee partnered with ISA in January of 2019.

“It has been a privilege to work alongside Mayor Chasity Wells-Armstrong and her team, in order to give our students within our Inspired Strategies Agency an opportunity to get hands-on experience with developing and implementing enhanced communications strategies for the city of Kankakee,” said Executive Director of University Relations, Susan Wolff.

Rachel Schramm is one of the founders of the agency. Rachel currently serves as the liaison between ISA and the City of Kankakee. She said students are always excited to meet the Mayor and look forward to what each semester may bring. 

"Working with the City of Kankakee is shaping the lives of all of us-faculty and students. The passion for Kankakee is evident at every meeting and event we are able to attend. This partnership allows our students to gain professional experience during their college years with exposure to government, community relations, issue campaigns, and a team led by Mayor Chasity Wells-Armstrong who works for the very best of Kankakee each day. It is an incredible example for our students too,” said Project Manager of ISA, Rachel Schramm.

Creating an opportunity for the younger generation to have a voice in government and becoming more involved in the community is part of Mayor Wells-Armstrong’s Kankakee Forward Agenda. “I believe the City has an integral role in exposing youth to the employment and mentoring opportunities available in local government.  There are consistent efforts to modernize technology, improve operational efficiencies and implement best practices to attract and retain local talent. This administration is committed to being an employer of choice and I am very excited for the partnership and support of Olivet Nazarene University.”

Students receive college credit for participating in the Inspired Strategies Agency.

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The City of Kankakee is dedicated to protecting, building and nurturing the community while enhancing lives. We are a historic, vibrant, and active riverfront community. We continue to transform into an extraordinary place to dream, grow, and thrive. Embracing our diversity, we strive to be progressive, inclusive, and innovative. For more information on the City of Kankakee, please visit the website at www.citykankakee-il.gov.

 

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