Faculty are closely involved with many of the new educational reform initiatives affecting the preparation of workers for the 21st century. Work with high schools involved with implementation of reforms (such as the Coalition for Essential Schools, Tech Prep, model curricula which integrate academic and vocational instruction) are unique efforts involving partnerships with local education agencies. All of these efforts, and others like them, are indicative of faculty leadership being applied to address new educational reforms.

Faculty have developed working relationships with public education and a full array of other human resource development organizations in Illinois, including areas near the 15 military bases on which the Department conducts baccalaureate programs. Linkages with more than 600 individuals/organizations in education, business and industry, and government facilitate internships and other professional experiences.