Category: Equity & Engagement Department News

February Community Coalition Meeting Highlights: Safety Updates, Youth Jobs, Outreach Programs, and Upcoming Awareness Event

On February 12, 2026, the Champaign County Community Coalition held its monthly meeting at the Holiday Inn Conference Center from 3:30 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. During the meeting, representatives from local law enforcement agencies provided updates on recent criminal activity and shared information about upcoming community events in which they will be participating. The Youth Employment […]


City Representation at Teen Summit 2.0

Elected officials and employees with the City of Champaign were in attendance on February 3, 2026, for an event marking the launch of Teen Summit 2.0: The Remix. Attendees at the event included Mayor Deborah Frank Feinen, Council Members Shauna Clayborn and Davion Williams, Police Chief Timothy T. Tyler, and Community Relations Manager Tracy Parsons (Equity and Engagement). It was also attended […]


City Recognizes Black History Month

February is Black History Month, a time to celebrate and honor the history, culture, and achievements of Black Americans. Throughout the month, the City of Champaign is highlighting national and local Black leaders, historical milestones, and community contributions through a dedicated social media campaign that recognizes their lasting impact on our community and beyond. Staff […]


New Episode of Champaign Spotlight: Every Student Everyday – Attendance Matters

How can our community work together to support student success? The latest episode of Champaign Spotlight features a conversation with the Equity and Engagement Department’s Community Relations Manager, Tracy Parsons, about a new school attendance initiative called “Every Student Everyday”. Communications Manager Natalie Kenny Marquez and Parsons discuss how the City of Champaign, Urbana School District […]


A Community Working Together for Student Success

At the City of Champaign, we believe that every day a student is in school matters – not just for academic achievement, but for building confidence, opportunity, and a brighter future for our youth and our community. Student attendance isn’t just an education issue: it’s a community priority. When students show up every day, they’re […]


Every Student Everyday

The Champaign County Community Coalition recently partnered with Champaign Unit #4 School District and Urbana School District #116 to launch the Every Student Everyday campaign, a countywide initiative aimed at improving student attendance and reducing chronic absenteeism. The campaign emphasizes the critical connection between consistent school attendance, academic success, and long-term student well-being. City leadership […]


Community Relations Manager Speaks at Police Training Institute

On January 9, Community Relations Manager Tracy Parsons attended the Police Training Institute as a guest speaker. During the session, City staff emphasized the importance of strong police-community relations and meaningful community engagement, highlighting the value of officers building visibility, trust, and familiarity within the communities they serve. City staff also shared insights into the […]


Award Recipients Announced for 2026 Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Countywide Celebration

The MLK Countywide Committee and the Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Advocacy for Justice Committee are pleased to announce the names of those being honored at the 25th Annual Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Countywide Celebration on Sunday, January 18, 2026. Three community members will be honored with a prestigious award in recognition of their […]


City Staff Make the Season Merry at Shop with a Cop Event

On Tuesday, December 16, employees from Champaign Police and the Equity & Engagement Department were joined by area law enforcement and community partners for the 2025 Shop with a Cop event at Meijer! This year, Champaign’s Shop with a Cop helped to provide holiday gifts for 92 children in 36 families. Along with CPD personnel […]


Call for Nominations for the 2026 Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Countywide Celebration

The 25th Annual Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Countywide Celebration will be held on January 18, 2026. This meaningful event celebrates the legacy of Dr. King and the ongoing efforts of individuals and organizations in Champaign County who are embodying his vision of justice, equality, and service. The event is open to the public, […]