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Chicago Intercollegiate Council: A Legacy of Connection and Culture

The Chicago Intercollegiate Council (CIC) has been a vibrant force for nearly a century, weaving together community, culture, and education into a legacy that continues to inspire. Founded in 1927, CIC began with a vision to unite Polish-American students, and over the decades, it has evolved into a cornerstone of connection and leadership. From its earliest conventions to its modern digital initiatives, CIC’s story is one of resilience, innovation, and unwavering commitment to its members. This historical sketch invites you to journey through the milestones and memories that have shaped CIC into what it is today—a beacon of pride, heritage, and possibility. Take a closer look and discover how this extraordinary legacy continues to grow.

Origins and Founding (1927–1928)

The idea of a national association of college and university students of Polish descent was first conceived in early 1927, and a message was sent to existing clubs throughout the country to obtain their reactions to becoming part of such a nationwide organization.

The Polish Students Club of Boston, founded in 1915; the Joseph Conrad Club at Marquette University, founded in 1925; the Polish Academic Circle of Chicago, founded in 1928; and the Sarmatia Club at the University of Wisconsin, also founded in 1928, were the pioneer sponsors of the movement to organize on a national basis.

Joining them were the Polish Students Club in New York City, founded in 1922; the Polish Literary Club at the University of Michigan, founded in 1924; Upsilon Gamma of Chicago, founded in 1924; Kappa Pi Kappa of Buffalo Canisius College, founded in 1925; the Polish University Club of Chicago, founded in 1926; Pitt Polish Students at the University of Pittsburgh, founded in 1928; and Phi Sigma Epsilon at Columbia University, founded in 1928.

After a year of correspondence, during which each club assured its willingness to enroll and extend full cooperation, a national convention was called at Alliance College in Cambridge Springs, Pennsylvania, on December 27–29, 1928. Representatives from twenty clubs, including the original sponsors and several others from across the Midwest, East, and South, gathered to draft and adopt a constitution.

First Unification and Adoption of the Constitution

At the first national convention, held at Alliance College in Cambridge Springs, Pennsylvania, in December 1928, representatives from twenty clubs came together with a shared desire to unite. The discussions culminated in the drafting and adoption of a constitution, formally establishing the Polish Students Association.

The association’s primary purpose was “to unite and encourage the intellectual advancement of students of Polish lineage.” To ensure representation across the country, the organization was divided into three districts: Midwest, East, and South.

Clubs participating in this historic effort included:

Polish Academic Circle, Chicago, Illinois; Intercollegiate Circle, Cleveland, Ohio; Polish Collegiate Club, Detroit, Michigan; Polish Collegiate Club, Ann Arbor, Michigan; Joseph Conrad Club, Milwaukee, Wisconsin; Club at St. John Canty College, Erie, Pennsylvania; Alliance of Polish Youth, Detroit, Michigan; Intercollegiate Polish Club, Detroit, Michigan; Collegiate Circle, Chicago, Illinois; Polish Collegiate Club, Cambridge Springs, Pennsylvania; Intercollegiate Club of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois; Polish University Club, Chicago, Illinois; Polish Literary Club, Orchard Lake, Michigan; Polish Academic Circle, New York, New York; Sarmatia Club, Madison, Wisconsin; Polish Students Club, Boston, Massachusetts; Polish Students Club, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania; Columbia University Polish Students Circle, New York; Club at Canisius College, Buffalo, New York; Club at St. Bonaventurcs College, Sturtevant, Wisconsin.

This gathering was permeated with a strong desire to unite, resulting in the adoption of a constitution that laid the foundation for national collaboration among students of Polish heritage. It was a pivotal moment in creating a unified effort to support their intellectual and cultural advancement.

Early National Leadership and Structure

Following the adoption of the constitution at the 1928 convention, the Polish Students Association established its first national administration. The leadership structure reflected the organization’s commitment to representing Polish students across the United States.

The initial officers included:

• President: John Wegrzyn, Chicago, Illinois
• First Vice-President: Edward Zlonczewski, Boston, Massachusetts
• Second Vice-President: John Klimek, Ann Arbor, Michigan
• Third Vice-President: Michael Palen, Buffalo, New York
• Secretary: Leo Kossak, Madison, Wisconsin
• Treasurer: Zenobia Wolsan, Chicago, Illinois
• Directors: Jerry Pogorzelski, Boston, Massachusetts; Mary Krolowna, Chicago, Illinois; Joseph Walkowski, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania

In its first year, the association launched a quarterly publication, The Polish Student, which played a pivotal role in uniting and informing the community. Edited by Jane Palczynski, an art teacher and later consultant with the Chicago Public Schools, the publication reflected the association’s commitment to intellectual and cultural engagement. Contributing to its success were co-editors Zenobia Wolsan, John Blady, Joseph Anuszkiewicz, and Leo Winiarski.

During the first ten years, the association’s presidents and annual conventions played a significant role in uniting clubs and addressing members’ concerns. The headquarters of the association were strategically located in Chicago at 1200 North Ashland Avenue, at the heart of the city’s vibrant business, fraternal, and cultural hub of Polonia, reflecting the central role the city played in connecting and supporting the Polish community. A new constitution in 1935 abolished the district system, centralizing leadership and renaming the organization to the Polish Students and Alumni Association of America.

Presidents and Convention Cities:

• Founding Fathers, 1927, Boston and Chicago
• Organization Leaders, 1928, Cambridge Springs, Pennsylvania
• John Wegrzyn, 1929-1930, Cambridge Springs, Pennsylvania
• Joseph Anuszkiewicz, 1931-1932, Cleveland, Ohio; Chicago, Illinois
• Thaddeus Trzyna, 1933, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
• Marion Grochal, 1934, Buffalo, New York
• Stephen Lewandowski, 1935, Milwaukee, Wisconsin
• Arthur L. Korzeneski, 1936-1937, Chicago, Illinois

Pre-War Evolution and Transition (1935–1937)

At annual conventions, delegates brought all matters of importance to the table from all groups, but the problems of member clubs were solved in their respective districts. This structure fostered national unity and ensured progress through collaborative efforts. Conventions were held in various states, determined by the officers holding office that year.

In 1935, at the convention in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, the association took on new life as a new constitution was drafted and adopted. The district system was abolished, and a single central national body was created. The organization was renamed the Polish Students and Alumni Association of America, and the new constitution provided for a two-year term of office for national officers.

In 1936, the association participated in the initial meeting of all Polish American organizations in Chicago, where the Polish Inter-organization Council was formed to address shared challenges. That same year, the association’s president, Arthur L. Korzeneski, served as a director on the council’s board.

In 1937, the ninth annual national convention was held on July 2–4 at the LaSalle Hotel in Chicago, in conjunction with a National Polish Youth Conference.

That year’s national officers included:

• President: Arthur L. Korzeneski
• Executive Vice President: Adam J. Penar
• Vice-President: Ignatius Swientek
• Secretaries: Eleonore F. Bartosik and Rose Radwan
• Treasurer: Alex W. Olszewski

World War II and Transition (1938–1949)

As Europe faced the onset of World War II, the Polish Students Association’s membership and activities on a national level significantly declined due to the growing instability and global conflict. Until Poland’s invasion in 1939, the Kosciuszko Foundation had been a key financial supporter, but its contributions ceased as priorities shifted during the war.

In 1938, students and alumni from twelve Chicago-area universities and colleges came together to form the Chicago Council of Polish Students and Alumni Association. This initiative aimed to better address the immediate needs of Polish-American youth in Cook County. By 1940, the group evolved into the Chicago Council of University Polish Clubs, ensuring that the organization remained relevant and continued to support its members despite the challenges on the national stage.

On May 28, 1949, the organization adopted its current name, the Chicago Intercollegiate Council. To further strengthen communication and outreach, the council launched its official bulletin, The Councilite, which quickly gained a circulation of 2,000. Affiliate clubs flourished at institutions such as the University of Chicago, DePaul University, Northwestern University, and Loyola University, anchoring the CIC as a prominent voice within the Polish-American academic community.

Renaming and Growth (1949–1958)

The Chicago Intercollegiate Council (CIC) embraced a renewed focus on educational guidance and scholarships, which became a hallmark of its mission. The University Ball, first held in 1946, became an annual event where scholarship recipients were announced. Over the years, hundreds of thousands of dollars have been awarded to deserving students.

CIC also organized various social events, including dances, picnics, theater outings, and cultural celebrations. These activities were designed to foster a sense of community among members while building strong, lifelong connections. The CIC’s efforts during this period significantly strengthened its role in both the educational and social aspects of the Polish-American community.

Historic List of Past University Ball Queens:

1946: Helen Szewczyk; 1947: Lorraine Wielgos Kawalek; 1948: Jean Kielbasa Waytine; 1949: Lorraine Siemieniec Cyman; 1950: Estelle Obara; 1951: Joanne Wojciechowski Modelski; 1952: Charlene Biedo Dieter; 1953: Camille Jarzembski; 1954: Cecilia Brzyski Pellitier; 1955: Marcia Steczynski Kozakiewicz; 1956: Barbara Imbiorski Sobaski; 1957: Virginia Palasz Cudecki; 1958: Barbara Witek Zak; 1959: Frances Wolosewicz Wiet; 1960: Sonia Biutkus; 1961: none; 1962: Ellen Raczynski Wood; 1963: Marlene Krupa; 1964: Marguerite Czarnik Jaworek; 1965: Isabelle Mrozik Cortez; 1966: Maria Bronny Ciesla; 1967: Anna Kunach Wartkowski; 1968: Christine Jaszczurowski Budiselic; 1969: Marilyn Jakubowski Molinari; 1970: Marlene Wilczynski Gill; 1971: Christine Valasek Malinowski; 1972: Christine Simkowski Bourbon; 1973: Teresa Krivis; 1974: Mary Sendra Anselmo; 1975: Ewa Inglot; 1976: Barbara Morka Gursky; 1977: Iwona M. Jasiuk; 1978: Mary Ann Komorowski; 1979: Aleksandra Dobrowolski; 1981: Halina Duda; 1982: Ewa Dziadek-Hutyra; 1983: Elizabeth Tomczyk; 1984: Lillian Ziolkowski; 1985: Kasia Jaskiewicz Kapusta; 1986: Ann Marie Piotrowski (Kawalkowski); 1987: Doreen Biela; 1988: Iwona Komorowska Boyle; 1989: Gabriella Kaes; 1990: Dorota Wojcik Kenar; 1991: Izabela Musial; 1992: Krystyna Czart; 1993: Jolanta Zadlo Boniak; 1994: Margaret Blazej Ostrowski; 1995: Josephine Dlugopolski and Anna Wytanice; 1996: Joanna Skirucha; 1997: none; 1998: none; 1999: Anna Franciszkowicz and Basia Gwizdz.

Historic List of University Ball Chairs:

1946: Leon A. Kupeck; 1947: Genevieve A. Zaczek and Marion C. Pabis; 1948: Virginia J. Plac-Wrobel; 1949: Florence Kopala-Szewczyk; 1950: Casimer S. Kubak; 1951: Emil S. Gembara; 1952: A. Lincoln Piotrowski; 1953: Charles S. DeZanek; 1954: Ronald Racic; 1955: General Committee; 1956: Ronald Racic; 1957: Donald P. Wieczorek; 1958: Richard J. Witek; 1959: Walter L. Sojka; 1960: Conrad W. Walters; 1962: Conrad B. Miczko; 1963: Harry J. Siwkowski; 1964: Frances Wolosewick and William R. Kaplinski; 1965: Barbara M. Swigon; 1966: William R. Kaplinski; 1967: Barbara Sue Olejniczak; 1968: Richard W. Ciesla; 1969: Monica and Lawrence A. Sprengel; 1970: Christine and John Budiselic; 1971: Thaddeus A. Pacyniak and Mark Myslinski; 1972: Maria Ciesla and Corliss Jekielek; 1973: Bonnie and James Zalewa; 1974: Richard J. Bielowicz and Philip M. Murawski; 1975: Patricia J. Blus; 1976: Leonard F. Krajkiewicz; 1977: Halina L. Bielowicz; 1978: Thaddeus J. Traczewski; 1979: Halina L. Bielowicz; 1980: Roman W. Lobodzinski; 1981: Gregg Kobelinski; 1982: Richard F. Owsiany; 1983: Richard F. Owsiany; 1984: Therese M. Samulski; 1985: Les S. Kuczynski; 1986: Michael A. Dykla; 1987: Therese M. Samulski; 1988: Mark S. Dobrzycki; 1989: Peter Kapusta; 1990: Margaret Owsiany; 1991: Margaret Owsiany; 1992: Michael Jan Sadzak; 1993: Lester Sraga; 1994: Cherilyn J. Smoron; 1995: Andrew Noyszewski; 1996: Agnes L. Penar; 1997: Agnes L. Penar; 1998: Katherine Wasiak-Grzadziel; 1999: Cherilyn J. Smoron.

Scholarship Gala Chairs

• 2000 Event Committee
• 2001 Event Committee
• 2002 Event Committee

Achievements of the Association in the Post-War Period

During the presidency of Arthur L. Korzeneski in 1937, the “Medal of Honor” was established to commemorate the tenth anniversary of the Polish Student & Alumni Association. The first award was presented to President Franklin Delano Roosevelt at the White House on June 16, 1937. President Roosevelt expressed genuine appreciation for receiving it.

Notable recipients of the Medal of Honor include:

Joseph P. Kowal and Antoinette Rompkowska (1950); E. John Slerocinski (1980); Legion of Young Polish Women (1981); Aloysius Mazewski (1982); Jerry Bazylewski (1983); Polish American Congress (1984); Polish Museum of America (1985); Past Presidents of CIC (1986 and 1996); Chester Sawko (1987); Chicago Society P.N.A. (1988); U.S. Congressman Dan Rostenkowski (1989); Polish National Alliance (1990); Edward G. Dykla (1991); Zwiazek Harcerstwa Polskiego (1992); Karen and Robert Flor (1993); Zwiazek Nauczycieli Polskith (1994); Kosciuszko Foundation (1995); Conrad B. Miczko (1999).

The association also introduced ceremonial robes to enrich its traditions. The president’s robe was made of blue silk with a gold hood, while other officers wore red silk robes with hoods of various colors to designate their roles.

By this time, the organization included 90 clubs from various universities across the United States, with a total membership of 3,000. Fourteen clubs represented the Chicago area, including:

De Paul Pi Sigma Pi; Crane Chi Pi Sigma; Polish University Club; Pi Alpha Chi; Polish Students Circle; Mundelein College Polish Society; Northwestern University Polish Club; Lewis Institute Polish Club; Upsilon Gamma; Wright Jr. Polish Club; Loyola Sigma Pi Alpha; Loyola University School of Law Polish Students’ Law Circle; Pi Tau Gamma (today Council of Educators in Polonia); Pi Mu Phi; Polish-American University Club.

Additional clubs existed outside Chicago, with over 70 institutions represented nationwide. These included prominent universities such as the University of Alabama, Harvard University, the University of Minnesota, and Yale University, showcasing the extensive reach and influence of the association. This extensive network highlighted the association’s vast reach and influence.

Cultural and Educational Contributions

The CIC has always prioritized education as the cornerstone of cultural enrichment and community advancement. From its inception, CIC emphasized the importance of higher education by sponsoring educational guidance conferences to acquaint young Polish Americans and their families with its advantages.

The University Ball, held annually since 1946, became the centerpiece of CIC’s educational efforts. It publicly announced the scholarship recipients, underscoring the organization’s commitment to academic success. Hundreds of thousands of dollars have been awarded to students over the years, with the last large-scale ball held in 2002.

In addition to scholarships, CIC has been involved in numerous philanthropic and cultural initiatives. These included establishing the Polish Library at DePaul University, hosting art exhibits, and organizing oratorical contests. CIC also supported charitable endeavors, such as hosting Christmas parties for orphans at St. Hedwig’s Orphanage in Niles, aiding the Blind Youth of postwar Poland, and sending medical supplies and books to WMI Poland. The Council provided relief packages to war-stricken Poland, participated in forums at Northwestern University’s Thorn Hall, and contributed to the establishment of a Polish Chair at the University of Chicago.

CIC’s social activities have also played an important role in strengthening the Polish-American community. These activities included dances, picnics, gallery visits, theatrical outings, and traditional celebrations like Andrzejki and Wigilia. These gatherings helped build lasting friendships and solidified the sense of community among members.

CIC has granted awards to individuals outside of its membership, to organizations not related to its membership, and to alumni for excellence in personal and professional growth, leadership, humanitarian efforts, and philanthropy.

Social Engagement and Community Impact

IC has sponsored cultural and philanthropic activities, such as hosting art exhibits, organizing oratorical contests, equipping and dedicating a Polish Library at DePaul University, and supporting initiatives like the Copernicus Foundation and the Polish Arts Club. Philanthropic endeavors included hosting Christmas parties for orphans at St. Hedwig’s Orphanage in Niles, aiding the Blind Youth of postwar Poland, and sending medical supplies and relief packages to war-stricken Poland. CIC also assisted in the establishment of a Polish Chair at the University of Chicago and supported events such as the Polish Poetry Contest and Math Kangaroo in the USA.

CIC’s social events created an environment where lifelong friendships were formed. Activities ranged from dances, picnics, and hayrides to more modern pursuits like Laser-Tag and WhirlyBall. Traditional celebrations, including Andrzejki, Mikolajki, Święconka, Wigilia, Święto Janki, and Weczór Kolęd., provided participants with cultural touchstones that strengthened community bonds.

CIC’s Social and Cultural Contributions

CIC has sponsored cultural and philanthropic activities, such as hosting art exhibits, organizing oratorical contests, equipping and dedicating a Polish Library at DePaul University, and supporting initiatives like the Copernicus Foundation and the Polish Arts Club. Philanthropic endeavors included hosting Christmas parties for orphans at St. Hedwig’s Orphanage in Niles, aiding the Blind Youth of postwar Poland, and sending medical supplies and relief packages to war-stricken Poland. CIC also assisted in the establishment of a Polish Chair at the University of Chicago and supported events such as the Polish Poetry Contest and Math Kangaroo in the USA.

CIC’s social events have created an environment where lifelong friendships have been formed. Activities ranged from dances, picnics, and hayrides to more modern pursuits like Laser-Tag and WhirlyBall. Traditional celebrations, including Andrzejki, Mikolajki, Święconka, Wigilia, Święto Janki, Weczór Kolęd., have provided participants with cultural touchstones that strengthened community bonds.

Representing Chicago and Transitioning to a Central Body (1930s–1958)

From the early 1930s through the late 1950s, CIC’s presence in the Chicago area was bolstered by affiliate clubs such as Pi Sigma Pi and Iota Sigma Lambda at De Paul University, Chi Pi Sigma at Crane Junior College, Pi Alpha Chi/Polish Academic Circle, Mundelein College Polish Society, Northwestern University Polish Club, and others. These affiliate clubs provided a robust presence for CIC across educational institutions, extending as far as Milwaukee, Madison, Ann Arbor, and Detroit.

As member and affiliate clubs began to decline in activity and terminate their existence on campuses, the remaining members transitioned into a single central body unit in 1958 to continue CIC’s programs and social activities. Initially, the group met at the Sherman Hotel until it was demolished to make way for the James R. Thompson State of Illinois Center. Over the years, CIC adapted to various locations to ensure its continued presence and influence in the community.

Modern Era Initiatives (2011–Present)

At the turn of the 21st century, CIC expanded its membership to include students of all ethnic backgrounds interested in learning about and sharing Polish culture and traditions. This decision reflected CIC’s commitment to inclusivity and adaptability in America’s pluralistic society.

Quo Vadis Conferences
In 2011, CIC members became acquainted with the Quo Vadis International Young Polonia Leaders Conferences in Canada. Inspired by its mission, CIC brought the conference to Chicago in 2012, marking its first-ever meeting in the United States. The conference theme, “Modern Leaders: Our Own Identity,” emphasized leadership skills, cultural appreciation, and networking opportunities. Participants from across the globe gathered for workshops, inspirational talks, and mentorship programs, creating a lasting impact on attendees.

Lives in Medicine Conferences
In 2014, CIC supported the Society of Polish American Pre-Health Professionals, later known as the Junior Board of the Polish American Medical Society, to host the inaugural “Lives in Medicine Conference.” Held at the Polish Museum of America, the event featured keynote speaker Dr. Maria Siemionow, renowned for performing the first face transplant in the United States. The conference offered workshops, mentoring sessions, and networking opportunities for aspiring healthcare professionals. A second conference in 2018 expanded on this success, providing scholarships and engaging over 70 participants at Loyola University.

Digital Presence and Future Plans

Between 2013 and 2023, CIC established a digital presence through Facebook pages and a dedicated website, providing mentoring, networking tips, and invitations to social events for students and alumni. In 2023, a new Executive Board was formed, launching initiatives to revitalize CIC’s mission, including a refreshed web page and expanded social media platforms like Instagram. These efforts aim to attract new members and continue CIC’s legacy of cultural and educational contributions.

Between 2013 and 2023, CIC established a digital presence through Facebook pages and a dedicated website, providing mentoring, networking tips, and invitations to social events for students and alumni. In 2023, a new Executive Board was formed, launching initiatives to revitalize CIC’s mission, including a refreshed web page and expanded social media platforms like Instagram. These efforts aim to attract new members and continue CIC’s legacy of cultural and educational contributions.

Major Milestones and Recognitions

As the Chicago Intercollegiate Council (CIC) has evolved, leadership from its past presidents has been instrumental in guiding the organization through its many phases of growth. These leaders have played key roles in advancing CIC’s mission and expanding its reach. Below is a list of the individuals who have served as presidents of CIC, each contributing to its development and success over the years.

Past Presidents

1927-1928: The position was not created; 1929-1930: John Wegrzyn; 1931-1932: Joseph Anuszkiewicz; 1933: Thaddeus Trzyna; 1934: Marion Grochal; 1935: Stephen Lewandowski; 1936-1937: Arthur L. Korzeneski; 1938: Anthony J. Feltych; 1939: Adam J. Penar; 1940: Rudolph Pawlik; 1941: Henry Samborski; 1942: John M. Payonk; 1943: Adam P. Stach; 1944: Felicia Kroll-Steinbach; 1945: Ted Armstrong; 1946: Leon A. Kupeck; 1947: Edward J. Tomasik; 1948: Genevieve A. Zaczek; 1949: Casimer S. Kubak; 1950: Frank J. Wrobel; 1951: Leon A. Szamocki; 1952: Emil S. Gembara; 1953-1954: Leonard J. Stefanowski; 1955-1956: Ronald Racic; 1957: Bernard J. Prusinski/Pierce; 1957: Walter L. Sojka; 1958: E. Jack Prebis; 1959-1960: Barbara M. Swigon; 1961: Arthur J. Malinowski; 1962: Conrad B. Miczko; 1963: Wesley W. Duray; 1964: Barbara M. Swigon; 1965: Edmund Gronkiewicz; 1966: William R. Kaplinski; 1967: Lawrence A. Sprengel; 1968-1969: Daniel Pankiewicz; 1970: Richard J. Bielowicz; 1971: Richard W. Ciesla; 1972: John Budiselic; 1973: Ted A. Pacyniak; 1974-1976: Halina L. Bielowicz; 1977: Leonard F. Krajkiewicz; 1978: Roman W. Lobodzinski; 1979: Robert B. Szebert; 1980: Leonard F. Krajkiewicz; 1981-1982: Marlene J. Wilczynski; 1983: Les S. Kuczynski; 1984-1988: Richard F. Owsiany; 1989-1991: Mark S. Dobrzycki; 1992-1993: Christopher I. Dobrzycki; 1994-1995: Les Sraga; 1996-1997: Cherilyn J. Smoron; 1998-1999: Christopher T. Grzadziel; 2000: Stanley Pieklo; 2001-2002: Eva Penar; 2003-2004: Marcin J. Szajda; 2005-2012: The position was not offered; 2013-2022: Agnes Ptasznik Renz; 2023-2025: Conrad B. Miczko.

Looking Ahead

The Chicago Intercollegiate Council (CIC) has been a cornerstone for Polish-American students for nearly a century, offering opportunities for personal growth, academic achievement, and cultural pride. Since its founding, CIC has united individuals with a shared passion for education and community, creating a legacy of leadership and connection that has shaped the paths of countless students and alumni.

As we look to the future, CIC is committed to continuing this legacy by fostering an environment where members can thrive academically, professionally, and personally while honoring their Polish heritage. Together, we will write the next chapter of CIC’s history, and we invite you to be part of that journey—contributing to the growth, unity, and excellence that will guide the council for generations to come.