What began as a simple conversation and exchange of ideas in the Library last spring ended with the dedication of the 2,100 square foot Hewitt Career Center Wednesday, Jan. 21.

Dr. Richard Olson, Superintendent of Waukegan Community Unit School District 60 said the project was filled with “spirit” and that everyone involved with the center’s development put people first. “If someone had an idea and said ‘we could do this’, someone else said ‘I’ll do it.’” Dr. Olson praised the efforts of the contractors and the district’s support staff for the work they did. As for the dedication of Hewitt Associates, Dr. Olson noted that “Hewitt is a corporation with a heart and the heart of any corporation is its people.”

Mr. Dale Gifford, chief executive officer of Hewitt Associates, said the career center stresses the importance the firm places on people. “We have four values at Hewitt; integrity, excellence, collaboration, and people – and we place a real value on people.” Mr. Gifford said that a recent advertising campaign reflects the people focus. That campaign ends with the phrase “Never underestimate the value of people.”

Mr. Gifford said with the changing face of the workplace, Hewitt is dedicated to “being part of building the diverse workforce of tomorrow. I hope to reflect back on this day with pride because of our contribution to the young people and the community.”

Ms. Kim Zupec, Waukegan High School principal said the commitment by Hewitt does more than add physical improvements to the school. “When we began to discuss this project, we saw it as a renaissance for Waukegan High School. This center will serve all of our students no matter what their background is. We need to believe in our students and what they can achieve.”

With a focus on the global workforce, the support by Hewitt Associates is significant because the Career Center at Waukegan High School is not a local project, but a pilot for what Hewitt officials are planning to be an international effort. Plans are being developed for a similar facility in Atlanta, Georgia, Asia, and Europe.

Mr. Andres Tapia, chief diversity officer at Hewitt, said projections are that by 2008, 70 percent of the new employees will be women and minorities. “Waukegan High School is building the workforce of tomorrow.” The career center, he said, is more than about colors and walls. “It’s a space that will enable young people to think about who they are, find out what is unique about them, and see themselves in the future whether their name is Maria, Tyrone, or John.”



Senior Erika Lopez addressed the dedication ceremonies, saying that the center will make a difference to those students who come through and use its resources. “They will understand the importance of the career center.”

Ms. Kathy Hoffman and Mr. Joe Brito will coordinate the Career Center. Students should contact them for further information.