On Tuesday, April 11, Elmhurst College will host ELSA-Palooza 9, an annual celebration of the Elmhurst Learning and Success Academy (ELSA) and its post-secondary educational offerings for the special-education community. ELSA-Palooza 9 will celebrate the ELSA Class of 2017 and will feature a student showcase, allowing students to show off the projects they’ve been working on, along with a talent portion featuring musical performances by students. Student-led tours of campus and ELSA classrooms also will be offered throughout the event. ELSA-Palooza 9 will conclude with a performance by The Naturals, a Chicago-area band created by Maurice Snell and Terry Bracey, who are both autistic. ELSA-Palooza 9 will begin at 11:00 a.m. on Tuesday, April 11, in the Founders Lounge of the Frick Center (190 Prospect Ave., Elmhurst, www.elmhurst.edu/campusmap). Admission is free and all are welcome. To RSVP, call (630) 617-3300 or email elsa@elmhurst.edu.

A four-year certificate program, ELSA provides a full-time, post-secondary educational experience to young adults with cognitive disabilities. The program emphasizes academics, work experience, and social and recreational experiences. On-campus housing is available for some ELSA students. Upon completion of the program, students are better prepared to hold a job and live with greater independence in the community or with their families. Federal financial aid is available for students who qualify. Elmhurst College is a leading four-year college that seamlessly blends liberal learning and professional preparation to help students reach their full potential. Elmhurst College offers more than 60 undergraduate majors, 17 graduate programs, and degree-completion programs for busy adults. Elmhurst College is one of the Top 10 Colleges in the Midwest, according to U.S. News & World Report; and U.S. News, Money and Forbes magazines consistently rank Elmhurst as one of the Midwest’s best values in higher education.