2024 - Four Elgin Community College Scholars Awarded Scholarships

Three Elgin Community College (ECC) students and a recent graduate received scholarships totaling $ 4,000 from the Elgin Hispanic Network (EHN) earlier this month. 

The 37th Annual Techsgiving Luncheon, held at Villa Olivia in Bartlett, Illinois, brought together students, sponsors, and community leaders to honor the scholars’ achievements and celebrate their promising futures. ECC Interim President Peggy Heinrich, EdD, ECC Board Chair Donna Redmer, and Board Trustee Jennifer Rakow attended the event along with other ECC staff.

“Through these scholarships, we are investing in future generations,” said EHN President Linda Ramirez. 

Meet the Scholars

Jonathan Aguina

Current ECC student and soon-to-be graduate Jonathan Aguina attended the recognition ceremony. The first-generation college student said he plans to graduate on December 14 with an Associate in Arts degree in Communications. 

His journey at ECC has been transformative, providing him with clarity on his career goals and a sense of belonging. With 30 hours of observation completed at Bartlett High School and active participation in clinicals, Aguina said he aspires to continue his education at either Illinois State University or the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign.

Expressing gratitude for the scholarship, Jonathan shared: "This scholarship means a lot to me. It’s helping me pay off my college tuition. As a first-generation college student, this support is crucial in overcoming financial barriers and pursuing my goals."

He credits ECC’s accessibility, affordability, and supportive environment for his academic success.

"I found my path when I went to ECC,” he said. “It’s affordable, close to home, and the best fit for me right now."

Valeria Hernandez

An aspiring second-grade teacher, Valeria Hernandez is studying elementary education at ECC and plans to graduate with her associate’s degree in the summer of 2025. The youngest of two siblings, Hernandez draws inspiration from her older sister, who recently earned a degree in ophthalmology.

Hernandez sees the scholarship as a recognition of her dedication and community involvement, noting, "This scholarship is a symbol of the importance of education and hard work. I hope to bring the knowledge I gain back to Elgin to make a positive impact."

Looking ahead, she is considering transferring to Eastern Illinois University to continue her educational journey.

Sirlene Machicado

Originally from Bolivia, Sirlene Machicado is studying English as a Second Language (ESL) and business communication at ECC. With a long-term goal of pursuing a career in accounting, she hopes to support her mother’s small business and fulfill her family’s aspirations in the U.S.

"My mom has always told me that this country has a lot of opportunities," Machicado said. "Thank you, EHN, for helping me take my education to the next level."

Sirlene’s family has a strong connection to ECC—her sister attended the college 12 years ago—and she is pursuing her own ECC journey with the goal of graduating in two years.

Aolany Campuzano

A lifelong Elgin resident and recent ECC graduate, Aolany Campuzano earned her Associate in Arts degree in December 2023 and is now majoring in Public Health with a minor in Latino Studies at the University of Illinois Chicago. During her time at ECC, she served as president of the Organization of Latin American Students (OLAS) and was active in TRiO and student life, building a close-knit community of peers and mentors.

"This scholarship is a great opportunity and means so much to me as a lifelong Elginite and active community leader," Campuzano said.

She credits her mentor, ECC Associate Professor of History Antonio Ramirez, for inspiring her to pursue higher education.

"His class and guidance deepened my love of learning and influenced my decision to minor in Latino Studies."

ECC is proud of the pivotal role it plays in shaping these scholars’ educational journeys and congratulates Jonathan, Valeria, Sirlene, and Aolany on their well-deserved recognition.