Ian Sharping is an accomplished educator and legal expert with a distinguished career spanning various sectors. Currently a tenured faculty member in the Legal Studies Department at South Suburban College, Ian also serves as a Commissioner for the Illinois Court of Claims. Ian’s academic background includes a Bachelor of Science in Behavioral Science from the University of Wisconsin-Madison, a Juris Doctor from Valparaiso School of Law, and a Master’s degree in Cybersecurity from Brown University. His professional journey began in litigation, representing both individuals in need and large corporations as an attorney in Chicago. In 2012, Ian transitioned into higher education, serving in administrative and teaching roles at the City Colleges of Chicago, the fifth-largest community college district in the country. He has also held the position of Chief Quality Officer at Instituto del Progreso Latino, where he oversaw key business operations, including legal, compliance, IT, security, and finance. 

​

Passionate about higher education and community service, Ian resides in Des Plaines, Illinois, with his wife and three sons. He actively advocates for education through his leadership roles, including serving as President of FALA Chicago, Treasurer/Secretary for the American Association for Paralegal Education , and as a member of various professional organizations. Ian is also a recent graduate of the Signature Fellows Program with Leadership Greater Chicago, further demonstrating his commitment to leadership and service.