The Beginning of IACEA
Rooted in collaboration and driven by purpose, IACEA emerged at a time when adult education was gaining new urgency and recognition. What began as a shared effort among dedicated educators quickly grew into a statewide movement, uniting institutions and professionals around a common goal: strengthening access, innovation, and opportunity in adult learning across Illinois.
A Legacy of Growth and Innovation
From its humble beginnings, IACEA has evolved into a pivotal force in adult education, adapting to the changing needs of educators and learners alike. Our timeline highlights key milestones in our journey.
Where It All Began in 1937
The Illinois Adult Education Association was born in 1937, emerging from staff meetings of Works Progress Administration education leaders who recognized a growing need for adult learning opportunities across Illinois.
Two years later, the association was reorganized by representatives from local libraries, the State Library, the University of Illinois, the University of Chicago, public school officials, and other invested leaders. Together, they shaped an organization grounded in collaboration and shared purpose.
From the beginning, the mission was clear. IACEA existed to create a space where adult educators could exchange ideas, strengthen their practice, and promote innovative educational tools designed specifically for adult learners.
Throughout the 1950s and 1960s, IACEA remained a viable and influential organization. As adult education continued to evolve, many educators became members of both IACEA and the newly formed Public Adult and Continuing Educators Association of Illinois, reflecting a growing and interconnected professional community.
Public Adult and Continuing Educators Association of Illinois (PACE)
As interest in adult education expanded statewide, so did the recognition that stronger leadership and new instructional approaches were essential. This momentum led to the formation of the Public Adult and Continuing Educators Association of Illinois, known as PACE.
A steering committee made up of teachers and administrators from across the state convened for the first time at an open general meeting held at the University of Illinois Circle Campus. From that gathering, the foundation of the organization took shape. The committee developed the constitution and bylaws that would guide PACE forward.
The first official organizational meeting was held on April 24, 1969. While PACE was strongly teacher oriented, it quickly attracted administrators and counselors who shared a commitment to strengthening adult education programs throughout Illinois.
During the 1970s, membership in both IACEA and PACE grew rapidly. These years, however, coincided with significant funding reductions for adult education at both the state and national levels. Through joint legislative advocacy, the two organizations worked together to restore funding. Those shared challenges and successes laid the groundwork for deeper collaboration and ultimately, unification.
Illinois Adult and Continuing Educators Association, Incorporated (IACEA)
As joint efforts between IACEA and PACE expanded, discussions around a formal merger gained traction. A pivotal moment came during the 1977 conference in Peoria, attended by nearly 300 participants. The opening general session reflected on the histories of both organizations and examined the experiences of Minnesota educators who had recently merged their own state associations.
A survey conducted at the conference provided a clear mandate for the boards of IACEA and PACE to explore merger possibilities. In response, a joint constitution committee was formed, bringing together teachers and administrators from adult centers, public schools, community colleges, and universities.
The committee worked through multiple drafts of a new constitution, carefully building on the strengths of both organizations while creating space for growth and avoiding duplication of services. The result was a unified framework designed to serve the evolving needs of adult and continuing educators.
The proposed constitution was overwhelmingly approved, with ninety three percent of voters in favor. On February 1, 1979, the merger became official, and members of both IACEA and PACE became members of the Illinois Adult and Continuing Educators Association, Incorporated.
From its inception, IACEA has advocated for improved adult and continuing education standards throughout Illinois. The association has worked to expand access to education for all people while supporting the intellectual and professional growth of those who administer, teach, and provide support services in adult and continuing education programs.
Today, IACEA members represent every facet of the field, including public schools, community extensions and evening colleges, corrections, health services, community and social welfare agencies, universities, business, arts and religion, media, libraries, and more. Together, they remain part of one of the most vital educational movements of our time.
Join Our Advocacy Efforts
In the 1970s, as funding for adult education faced severe cuts, our advocacy efforts intensified, leading to a remarkable restoration of resources. This period saw a surge in membership, uniting educators in a common cause. Join us today to continue this legacy of advocacy and support for adult education.
