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i.c.stars graduates Cycle 7

In a spirited and emotional ceremony on February 20, 2004, ten young adults graduated from the rigorous four month i.c.stars technology and leadership training program, and within a matter of weeks, every one of the graduates had been placed in entry-level positions in companies such as Hewitt Associates, PepsiCo, and the Federal Reserve.

Since 2000, i.c.stars has been providing opportunities for inner-city young adults to harness the strength of technology for social and economic leadership. For 16 weeks, participants work in teams of 3–4 to solve client business problems and build prototype web applications on the Microsoft .NET platform. Graduates have a basic knowledge of programming in C# and are prepared for work in internships and entry-level positions at Fortune 1000 and mid-size businesses. i.c.stars offers its graduates two years of continuing service in career counseling, placement services and continuing education.

i.c.stars is an innovative learning program for inner-city young adults that integrates technology training and leadership development to shape the next generation of technology leaders.

closerlook has been a committed corporate sponsor since the inception of i.c.stars. i.c.stars is located within the closerlook facility, giving our employees a chance to participate in business simulation experiences with the i.c.stars interns and engage with the group over afternoon High Tea. According to Sandee Kastrul, President and Co-Founder of i.c.stars, “Living at closerlook allows us the ability to simulate what work in the technology industry is really like. Our loft studio on the 5th floor of closerlook has the same look and feel as the strategic communications firm downstairs and closerlook volunteers help us to achieve the technology, business and leadership learning objectives by playing the role of client and client partners driving deliverables in a real work context. We couldn’t imagine a better family to be a part of than the closerlook family.”

closerlook is proud to play a part in the life-changing impact that i.c.stars has on the individuals and communities it serves. To get involved as a volunteer or corporate sponsor, we encourage you to contact Sandee Kastrul, President and Co-Founder of i.c.stars at 312-640-3851 or visit them at their website.