2018
Shuang Li: ECC is a great place to study
I have been studying at Elgin Community College for two years, and I am majoring in hospitality. I started in ECC’s intensive English program.
Qilin Liu: My experience was priceless
I’m an international student from China and decided to study abroad when I finished secondary school.
Lee Mcintosh: Just keep pushing
When it comes to obtaining success, there is no clear guide on exactly how to achieve it. Therefore, I decided to create my own.
Kwanyin Linares: This is just the beginning of something big
I left my house, my family, my career and my native country when I moved to the United States from Venezuela.
Justine Walker: I came to ECC looking for a promotion; what I found was freedom
How is it that an associate degree altered my perspective on life so dramatically?
Joseph Agnello: Purpose, passion, and relationships make life meaningful
Following my retirement, I enrolled in a philosophy class at Elgin Community College. When family and friends questioned me why I took this class at my age, I was stunned.
Jessica Mata: ECC’s nursing program changed my life
I still remember the day I got the news that I was accepted into Elgin Community College’s nursing program.
Fernando Camacho: Everyone at ECC wants students to succeed; I represent what is possible here
My time at Elgin Community College has been nothing short of amazing. In the beginning, I wasn’t sure what to expect.
ECC President David Sam: Start at ECC, succeed anywhere
A message from ECC President David Sam about Illinois' bachelor’s degree completion rates among community college students who transfer to four-year colleges.
De’Reen Vyleta: My journey at ECC has been fun; my future is a little brighter
My experience at ECC has been outstanding! The people and staff here have helped me change my life.
Chris Young: Failure is not fatal when you grow from your mistakes
My journey at Elgin Community College has been an emotional rollercoaster.
Carla Mares: ECC’s honors program ignited my interest as a student
I came to Elgin Community College in the fall of 2016, undecided and a little disappointed in myself for not being away at school.
Your community college at a glance
From life-changing academic programs to powerful community partnerships, ECC takes a leading role in improving people's lives through learning.
Passing the torch: ECC's dedication to developing new generations of skilled workers burns bright
As the demand for skilled welders heats up, ECC has lit a spark in teenage residents by providing them with valuable experience in a field with high growth potential.
Leading the Way: A message from the ECC President and Board Chair
Dear ECC Community, 6.9 million. That is the number of job openings reported by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics at the end of July 2018.
Guy’s global perspective and belief in students helps them achieve their goals
Associate Professor of Adult Basic Education Sally Guy brings her worldview to the classroom. Guy loves to travel and spent a semester abroad in Europe during college.
From farm to table: Loiacano lives for family, cooking and giving back
In her position as Director of Spartan Terrace Restaurant, Jenn Loiacano gets to do two of her favorite things every day—teach culinary classes and plan events. She’s overseen operations of the student-run restaurant since joining Elgin Community College in January 2017.
Four-handed dentistry builds strong relationships
In fall 2018, Elgin Community College Dental Assisting Program alumni and members of the area dental community gathered to celebrate the program’s 50th year.
Earn while you learn: Apprenticeships meet the needs of employers and students
Kwanyin Linares’ educational journey began in 2017 in Venezuela, where she was a university student pursuing her dream to become a nurse.
Dreaming in color, succeeding in life: ECC’s celebration of diversity and commitment to equity runs year-round
At Elgin Community College, our values of inclusivity, diversity and equity are tangible the moment you set foot on campus.
50 years, 7,000 leaders: ECC’s Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society celebrates 50 years of leadership
Give us 50 years, and we’ll give you 7,000 leaders who are well-equipped to become paragons of success within the community.
Collins’ passion for welding, teaching ignites a spark in students
If you asked adjunct welding instructor Chester “Al” Collins how to perfect your weld, he’d tell you: proper technique and practice. But how about finding the perfect, fulfilling career? For Collins, it’s blending his burning passion for helping Elgin Community College students succeed with years of [metal] strong experience in the field he’s teaching.
Strossner sees the beauty of books
For Managing Director of Retail Operations Kelly Strossner, it’s all about the books. Her love for literature goes way back to her first job in a bookstore when she was 15 and her school days when she became fascinated with fiction (and nonfiction).
Family is foundational for Bosteder
To say that family plays a large role in Adult Basic Education Center Office Coordinator Theresa Bosteder’s life is an understatement.
Jackson tackles students' questions and coaches them to the end zone
Technical Enrollment Facilitator Jurice Jackson is the ultimate fan—of sports and seeing Elgin Community College students reach their dreams.
Zelms empowers students to succeed
In marathon running and in life, preparation is key. English Unit Adjunct Faculty member Susan Zelms helps Elgin Community College students during the degree completion “race,” giving them a leg up in life—and cheering them on as they cross the finish line to walk across the stage during commencement.
Carriveau goes the distance for the perfect shot
Electronic Imaging Specialist and resident comedian for Elgin Community College’s Marketing and Communications department Mark Carriveau spends his time searching for the perfect shot.
ECC President David Sam: Community colleges can best train the new generation of skilled workers
A message from ECC President David Sam about community colleges' role in training the new generation of skilled workers.
‘Deaning’ involves a lot of passion and a touch of magic for Miller
Walt Disney World may be the most magical place on earth, but for Wendy Miller, dean of health professions, math, science and engineering, Elgin Community College is the most rewarding place on earth.
Renovations and revisions: Alms enjoys developing potential
In the classroom and with her flip houses, Instructor of English Ginger Alms enjoys developing potential.
For Clemmons, career satisfaction is all in the job
Aristotle’s quote “Pleasure in the job puts perfection in the work” rings true for Brandi Clemmons, event coordinator, who works in Elgin Community College’s Facilities Rental and Food Services division.
Empowering students to pursue goals and dream big, ‘I Dream in Color Week’ kicks off Sept. 10
A special “I Dream in Color Week” kick-off message from event creator Brittany Barber
For Kepley, theatre deserves a standing ovation
Theatre takes center stage for Susanne Kepley, Elgin Community College Arts Center’s resident manager of marketing and patron services, who has long loved the art form.
Peterhans aspires to radiate her passion as an instructor
Adjunct Digital Technologies Instructor Mary Peterhans, an Elgin Community College veteran of 35 years, knows what it takes to be successful at ECC: Put students first.
For Albino, ECC is home [court]
Admissions Coordinator Ramon Albino has been a Spartan for over 13 years since first beginning as a student employee in 2005. He’s held various positions within the college including student trustee, student worker and technical enrollment facilitator, but his latest move has him on the Admissions office roster.
Gundrum’s guidance supports students on their educational journey
Associate Dean of Advising, Transfer and Career Development Services Peggy Gundrum, remembers the challenges of being a college student and recent graduate. Her passion for serving students at Elgin Community College is fueled by her own experience.
Gray connects through intercultural communication and a global perspective
Education and Work Center (EWC) Transitions Coordinator Peter Gray seeks to make meaningful connections with people through the intercultural communication skills he’s acquired along his educational and professional journey.
Your guide to a great fall semester at ECC (You’ll want to save this.)
The beginning of fall semester at Elgin Community College will be here before you know it! Are you as excited as we are?
Julissa Alvarez: 'ECC challenged me and provided me with career-oriented skills'
Elgin Community College helped graduate Julissa Alvarez earn a paralegal certificate and start a new career.
Andrew Pratt: 'Student resources at ECC helped me succeed'
Elgin Community College helped graduate Andrew Pratt overcome obstacles and pursue his dream of becoming an animator.
Alex Theimer: 'ECC gave me the tools and coursework I needed to prepare for MIT'
Elgin Community College helped veteran Alex Theimer earn his associate degree and transfer to Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT).
ECC’s Spartan Food Pantry is growing [vegetables]
A hearty supply of fresh garden-grown vegetables are now available at Elgin Community College’s student-run Spartan Food Pantry thanks to two garden beds in the Advocate Sherman Hospital Natural Prairie and Community Garden.
Students experience reality and rewards of cold case police work
The case is over for Michelle Cortez, but future students of Elgin Community College’s Cold Case Investigative Research Institute will continue to research the mysterious 2013 disappearance of 24-year-old model Ryan Singleton, whose unexplained death in California made national headlines.
IMPACT: Purpose and Passion
After high school, Aimee Padilla did not know what she wanted to do, so she came to Elgin Community College to explore. She took classes she liked, including biology and math, hoping to find her passion.
IMPACT: Integrating Interests
People often treated Pietrek Kubasak differently when they learned he was homeschooled–it was usually in a good way. “A veterinarian explained biology and surgery to me. An HVAC specialist described how a system worked,” Pietrek recalled.
In life and in yoga, less is more for Richmond
Senior Director of Human Resource Information Systems Kristin Richmond "makes molehills out of mountains…of paper." She supervises the area that is responsible for HR systems strategy, implementation and maintenance, in addition to the function that maintains data related to Elgin Community College employees
Adult Basic and Secondary Education celebrates student achievement
On Saturday, April 28, Elgin Community College’s English as a Second Language Program celebrated with an annual tradition. The event honored 89 students who transitioned from one ESL level to the next, or who have completed ESL and transferred into college-level classes.
Solana Victoria: I found my passion and purpose at ECC
Things like this don’t happen to people like me; I was brought up in adversity, and I spent most of my life in adversity. There was never a time in my life when I thought I would be graduating from college with a 4.0 GPA, be selected as a commencement speaker, and have a full-time job in the field in which I am earning my degree.
Priscilla Gonzalez: ECC wasn’t my first choice, but it was my best choice
Elgin Community College was not on the list of the colleges and universities I originally wanted to attend. Back in high school, I heard about community college stereotypes and remember wanting to be like the kids who planned to go to four-year universities.
Nick LaRocco: ECC helped me develop academically and personally
My journey at Elgin Community College has been not only long and arduous, but quite rewarding and meaningful! After graduating a semester early from high school in January 2015, I had a head start on beginning my college career at ECC, where I’ve worked hard to earn my associate degree in management.
Michelle Kuzdzal: ECC’s paralegal program changed my perspective
I moved to Algonquin with my mom in 2015. At that point, I was a high school dropout with no motivation and a past I wasn’t proud of. So, I took moving as an opportunity to start over and make something of myself. Shortly after getting settled, I got a job, received my GED, and I began my journey at Elgin Community College.
Krystal Calhoun: The journey doesn’t stop here
“Don’t be afraid. Be focused. Be determined. Be hopeful. Be empowered.” This influential quote by Michelle Obama has become the reality of my journey at Elgin Community College. My college journey began in the spring of 2016 and has carried me through some incredible moments since then.
Juan Chavez: Through the ESL program, I found my voice
Learning English was one of the most important goals that I wanted to achieve when I moved to the United States in 2013. Back then, I only knew a couple words, and I could not understand anything when someone was talking to me. I felt frustrated because I really wanted to know what people were talking about and to be a part of their conversation.
Jaida Olvera: I will be the first woman in my family to earn a degree
During my senior year of high school, I started at Elgin Community College through the amazing tech prep program and discovered my goals; but the opportunities I received didn’t stop there.
Fatima Cruz: I will continue to strive for a better future
At Elgin Community College, I have gained valuable experiences. Through Student Government, in the position of senator and vice president, I was able to work with a team of fellow student leaders to promote student welfare. I became exposed to the art of advocacy while representing the ECC community to legislators in Springfield
Edgar Alba: I discovered my passions through unforgettable experiences
Two years ago, I was ready to dive into debt for a private university education instead of considering Elgin Community College. Today, I leave saying that attending ECC is one of the best choices I have ever made due to its affordability, quality professors, and the important connections and lasting friendships I found.
Brittany Pales: ECC invests in smart, caring students who make a difference in the world; I am that difference
Everything is possible with Elgin Community College as a starting point. I have been attending ECC for three years to earn my Associate in Arts degree. I have been involved in Phi Theta Kappa, engaged in honors program classes, and included on the President’s List each semester of my attendance.
Brianna Russell: The ECC Foundation helped me achieve my dream
When I reflect on my time at Elgin Community College, I am overwhelmed at the sense of accomplishment and joy that I feel in earning my dream degree. I have attended ECC for the past four years, and will be finishing my Associate of Applied Science in nursing degree with honors.
Ana Rojas: At ECC, I found my voice and advocated for issues I care about
My last three years at Elgin Community College have been like a roller coaster, with many ups and downs. ECC has always accepted me and provided me with enormous opportunities for which I will forever be extremely grateful.
Alex Buckwinkler: I wouldn’t be who I have become without ECC
I began my journey at Elgin Community College just under two years ago. Along the way, things haven’t always been easy, yet I managed to persist with my education and will now be graduating with my Associate in Arts this spring.
From teaching to teaching teachers, Hope serves faculty at all levels
Currently in her first year as director of Elgin Community College’s Center for the Enhancement of Teaching and Learning (CETL), Elizabeth "Liddy" Hope, PhD, describes herself as a teacher for the teachers. Having taught at ECC as a unit adjunct faculty member in sociology since 2011 (and at nine institutions total since 1998), Hope is well-prepared to serve ECC faculty.
From GED to EdD, Ulysse overcomes challenges to progress as an educator
Humanities Adjunct Instructor Baudelaire Ulysse, EdD, was searching for a home when he first visited Elgin in 2007. While he found a home elsewhere, a tour of Elgin Community College made a strong impression with him.
Kane encourages creativity through the “Aha” moment
A decision to learn how to juggle over 20 years ago turned into a relatable, lesson-worthy opportunity for Elgin Community College Professor of English and Honors Program Director Jason Kane.
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Disability Awareness Month dispels stereotypes and stigmas
When Pietrina Probst, Elgin Community College’s coordinator of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and student disabilities services, discussed the idea of Disability Awareness Month, ECC students didn’t hesitate. Probst, the advisor of ADAPT—a student club that advocates for disability awareness—said students were eager to get plans in motion.
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In teaching and singing karaoke, Doty’s performance is always a hit
Elgin Community College Adjunct Math Instructor Will Doty knows the importance of preparation, practice and adaptation, both in his leading role as professor and side gig as a crowd-pleasing karaoke singer. A big fan of music and theatre, Doty compares teaching to “producing, rehearsing and performing a new concert or play daily,” because of the amount of effort, planning and rehearsing that goes into just one day’s lesson plans.
For Obradovich, learning and martial arts go hand in hand
For Assistant Professor of English Nick Obradovich, learning and martial arts go hand in hand. Read more to learn why he compares studying Brazilian Jiu-jitsu to earning a bachelor’s degree.
Chief Kintz has goals for keeping ECC safe
Nearly three months in as Elgin Community College’s top cop, David Kintz can put away the breadcrumbs. If he ever needed directions anywhere on campus during his first two weeks at ECC, Kintz noted that everyone—students, faculty, staff or administrators—have been more than willing to point him in the right direction.
Serving students keeps instructor Divya Ajinth motivated
Divya Ajinth is motivated by the opportunity she has each day to impact the lives of the students she teaches in her Adult Basic Education (ABE) and Adult Secondary Education (ASE) classes. Her role as an ABE/ASE instructor prepares those Elgin Community College students for not only to take the High School Equivalency (HSE) Exam, but also qualify for better educational and career opportunities.
Eaton coaches in the classroom and on the court
In the classroom, in basketball and in life, Professor of Digital Technologies Heidi Eaton believes in learning, taking calculated risks, growing, and above all else-never giving up.
Munson credits music as foundation for career in teaching
Music is a big part of Dawn Munson's life, having played trumpet since she was 10 years old. In fact, music also brought her to Elgin Community College, where she participated in the Elgin Youth Symphony Orchestra when she was in seventh grade.
Student Activists Embody the Spirit of Marjory Stoneman Douglas
Student survivors of the horrific mass shooting at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School in Parkland, Florida are grieving. But they are also organizing. Within days of the tragedy students used social media, television events, and a planned “March for Our Lives” on March 24th to shape the message around the shooting: #NeverAgain.
David Rudden goes the distance for big data at ECC
David Rudden, managing director of institutional research (IR), describes his position as the “Chandler Bing job of higher education,” referring to the popular character on the TV show “Friends” who no one knows what he does for a living.
Wagner serves students facing financial hardships
Kim Wagner, executive director of student financial services and auxiliary enterprises, oversees the teams that operate the financial aid, student accounts, business and finance systems, food operations, bookstore and child care departments within the business and finance division at ECC.
Haske’s heart is in Elgin and teaching law
Elgin native Laura Haske, JD, assistant paralegal professor and paralegal instructional coordinator, moved out of state for college and lived in a few different cities before returning to Elgin in 2009, a move that was prompted by the desire to be closer to family.
With math, Wheaton always finds a problem to solve
What does a guitar have to do with math? Plenty, says Mathematics Instructor Greg Wheaton. “There is an overlap,” he explains. “It's thinking about strategy and having precision when you play.”
Quinn facilitates employee relations at ECC
Hired as a consultant for Elgin Community College's Human Resources Department in November 2016, ECC could have been just another client for Mary Quinn. Instead, ECC became her permanent work home.
Chattopadhyay believes in the beauty of physics
Soma Chattopadhyay, PhD, adjunct professor of physics and engineering, found a way to combine some of her favorite things-math, science, research and nature-into a career teaching college-level physics.
To Kernler, all of it matters
For Dan Kernler, associate professor of mathematics, it all matters. From helping students become college-ready in math, to providing the knowledge and skills to complete courses and master content directly related to their major and future career, he has been positively impacting students for 14 years since joining the college in 2003.
McClure is a true blue devotee of ECC, Cubs
Managing Director of Enrollment Services Jennifer McClure swings for the fences and never misses when it comes to helping students and employees. Read about her accomplishments and her devotion to the Chicago Cubs as well as the Spartans.