INA, Ill. (July 21, 2025) — Are you prepared to embark on a journey towards a successful and promising future? RLC's SHINE (Support Helping Individuals Navigate Education) program has been designed to provide support and resources for neurodivergent students.
SHINE is a comprehensive program designed to empower individuals and provide them with the necessary skills and resources to secure employment, achieve independence, and foster personal growth. Through the program, participants are equipped with the tools and support needed to succeed in the workforce, gain financial stability, and build confidence in their abilities.
Mindy Reach, SHINE Program Director, brings more than 20 years of experience in higher education to the campus. Supporting students through their college journey has always been a passion of hers—whether it’s helping them overcome challenges, build confidence, or simply find their footing. Reach is excited to provide an inclusive and empowering space at RLC, focused on helping neurodivergent students grow and succeed.
SHINE Program Director Mindy Reach
"College should be a place where every student feels seen, supported, and empowered—and that’s exactly what SHINE is intending to do," said Reach. "We want to meet students where they are and help them move forward with confidence. This is a space where neurodivergent students can show up as themselves and get the support needed to succeed both academically and personally.”
Through the SHINE program, students will receive customized academic assistance and the opportunity to build employable skills, opening doors to promising job prospects. Through emphasizing readiness for the workforce, the program aims to embolden students to reach their academic and professional goals with confidence.
Key Offerings
Beginning with the Fall 2025 semester, SHINE's academic programs will be limited to Culinary Arts and Early Childhood Education. Students interested in the program should apply early to secure one of the limited seats available for the program.
- Wrap-around services
- Employability skill training
- Soft-skill development
- Executive functioning skill practice
- Personal enhancement workshops
- Time management development
- Self-advocacy information
- Study-skills sessions
- Career planning
- Planning for money management
- Internship guidance
Application Checklist
The SHINE program is application based. Applications are reviewed and interviewed to assess alignment with the program’s mission. Ideal candidates for the program will have been diagnosed with a neurodevelopmental disorder, will have basic literacy skills, will maintain respectful behavior, and will have an ability to participate independently.
- Submit application at rlc.edu/shine
- Copy of IEP, 504, or proof of neurodiverse diagnosis
- You will need to be established with Disability Access Services to be considered for the program.
- FERPA release form
- Informal interview scheduled by the SHINE Program Director
“We’re not just focused on helping students succeed in the classroom—we’re also looking at the bigger picture: life after college," said Reach. "Many neurodivergent students have the skills and potential to thrive in the workforce, but they may face unique challenges when it comes to navigating that transition. By building in both academic support and opportunities to develop job-readiness skills, SHINE is helping students feel more confident, capable, and prepared for the next step."
Interested in SHINE? Apply today to secure one of the limited seats. Visit rlc.edu/shine for more information or press the button below!
