ECC Stories 2024

Marco Adrianzen Ruiz, student speaker for the Fall 2024 University Transfer Commencement Ceremony

Accomplishment | Commencement | Graduation Essays

Published 12/31/2024

Marco Adrianzen Ruiz: I saw the huge community I had built

In his inspiring commencement address, Marco Sebastian Adrianzen Ruiz, an international student from Lima, Peru, reflects on his journey of perseverance, family, and community. After overcoming financial hardship and his mother’s cancer diagnosis, Marco came to Elgin Community College to pursue his dream of becoming a nurse.

Fay Smith, student speaker for the Fall 2024 Career and Technical Programs Commencement Ceremony

Accomplishment | Commencement | Graduation Essays

Published 12/31/2024

Fay Smith: Success is not achieved alone

In her heartfelt commencement address, Fay Smith, Class of 2024, reflects on her journey from humble beginnings in a large, close-knit family to earning her Associate of Applied Science in Human Services at Elgin Community College. Drawing inspiration from her parents’ examples of compassion and perseverance, Fay shares how her life has been guided by a deep commitment to helping others—while learning the importance of balancing service with self-care.

Elgin Community College Fall 2024 graduate Tracie Hogel

Announcement

Published 12/12/2024

Tracie Hogel: I was excited about this new path

Tracie Hogel, Class of 2024, began her journey at Elgin Community College (ECC) in the Certified Recovery Support Specialist (CRSS) program while working for a local mental health agency. Encouraged by her instructor, Drew Beck, and later inspired by Dr. Liddy Hope, Tracie decided to pursue an Associate of Applied Science in Human Services.

A respiratory care therapist treats a patient

Going to College

Published 12/12/2024

ECC’s Respiratory Care Program: A Breath of Fresh Air in Health Care

Are you ready to make a difference in the lives of others? Elgin Community College (ECC) launched a new Respiratory Care Program in Spring 2025. This cutting-edge program is designed to prepare students for a rewarding career in one of health care's most vital fields, equipping them with the knowledge, skills, and hands-on experience needed to make a difference in patients' lives.

Student smiling in Jobe Lounge

Going to College

Published 12/11/2024

5 Tips for a Seamless Transfer from ECC

Ready to learn how to have a smooth and seamless transfer from ECC?

Students smiling in Jobe Lounge

Going to College

Published 12/11/2024

Support Opportunities Strategies from ECC Accessibility Specialists

Support. Opportunities. Strategies. (S.O.S.)

Elgin Community College Fall 2024 graduate Percy Schulz

Commencement | Graduation Essays | Student Profile

Published 12/11/2024

Percy Schulz: I feel connected to the community here

Percy Schulz, Class of 2024, discovered both creative growth and community at Elgin Community College (ECC). Beginning their journey in 2021, Percy became deeply involved on campus through the Leaders in Creative Writing Scholarship, working in the Writers Center, organizing events, and contributing to Spire, ECC’s literary arts magazine. Under the mentorship of Professor Rachael Stewart, Percy honed their writing craft and confidence as a poet.

Elgin Community College Welding Program

Going to College

Published 12/11/2024

4 In-Demand Manufacturing Careers to Consider for Your Future

The manufacturing industry is a highly technical, innovative field offering rewarding careers with competitive salaries. As industries adapt to new challenges and opportunities, the demand for skilled professionals in manufacturing is higher than ever.

Elgin Community College Fall 2024 graduate Alejandro Ornelas Jr. (Lexi)

Commencement | Graduation Essays | Student Profile

Published 12/11/2024

Alejandro Ornelas Jr. (Lexi): ECC is a tight-knit community that helps each other

Alejandro “Lexi” Ornelas Jr., Class of 2024, found a passion for wellness through Elgin Community College’s Massage Therapy program. What started as curiosity became a journey of hard work, balance, and self-discovery. Grateful for ECC’s supportive instructors and community, Lexi now looks forward to earning licensure and helping others make wellness a way of life.

Kaile Raimondi, web designer and accessibility developer

Staff Profile

Published 12/05/2024

From Student to Staff: Kaile Raimondi

Kaile Raimondi was promoted to Web Designer and Accessibility Developer in Elgin Community College’s (ECC) Marketing and Communications department this semester. Raimondi’s been transitioning through roles, moving up, and finding his career at ECC since he first began as a student in 2008.

ECC Graduate Stands by ECC Sign

Going to College

Published 12/04/2024

5 Things to Know Before Commencement

We are less than two weeks away from the fall 2024 commencement! It is a time to celebrate your graduation from Elgin Community College. This is an important step in your educational journey, and we want to be sure it is as smooth as possible!

Elgin Community College student Kamron Witt

Student Profile

Published 11/27/2024

Meet Kamron Witt of West Chicago

Elgin Community College (ECC) student Kamron Witt of West Chicago, Illinois, said he found his interest in Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) by accident.

ECC Nursing Program

Going to College

Published 11/26/2024

Career Fields in Health Professions at ECC

At Elgin Community College (ECC), there are 18 different programs in the health professions available to students to explore and find what area they gravitate to most.

ECC culinary arts alum with Gordon Ramsay on the set of

Alumni Profile

Published 11/25/2024

The Cook’s Tale

Zach Laidlaw, a 2024 “Next Level Chef” television series finalist, began his culinary journey at just 13 years old in his hometown of Burlington, Illinois.

Mark and Robin Seigle

Foundation

Published 11/25/2024

Seigles’ gift offers full-ride, mentoring to ECC students

The Elgin Community College Foundation is dedicated to empowering students and strengthening the local community. This commitment inspired ECC Foundation Board Member and Secretary Robin Seigle and her husband, Mark Seigle, to establish the Seigle Scholar Program this fall. Their gift of $500,000 for the program is one of the largest the college has ever received.

ECC student Nolan Wright

Student Profile

Published 11/22/2024

Meet Nolan Wright

When Elgin Community College (ECC) student Nolan Wright took environmental science his senior year of high school, he found his career path. As an animal and outdoor lover, Wright enrolled in ECC’s energy management program in the fall of 2024.

Jay Conglis, senior graphic designer

Alumni Profile | Staff Profile

Published 11/22/2024

From Student to Staff: Jay Conglis

Jay Conglis, a senior graphic designer at Elgin Community College (ECC), didn’t have a linear path to higher education. He attended ECC on two separate occasions, with two universities mixed in. He first came to ECC after high school for familiar reasons; it was a local school where he could save some money while attending. After two years, Conglis earned his Associate of Arts degree and transferred to Illinois State University (ISU) as a fine arts major.

Students working on HVAC systems

Going to College

Published 11/19/2024

Upskilling Yourself at Elgin Community College

In today’s job market, adding new skills or advancing the ones you already have can be the key to staying competitive and achieving personal goals. This is where Elgin Community College shines–not only is it affordable and accessible, but it also offers a diverse range of upskilling programs like skilled trades, advanced manufacturing, health care, and more.

ECC student Erek Marcello

Student Profile

Published 11/15/2024

Meet Erek Marcello

When Elgin Community College (ECC) student Erek Marcello graduated from high school, he took a year off, unsure what he wanted to do next. Still unsure, he looked at ECC for answers.

ECC student-athlete Christian Escobedo

Student Profile

Published 11/11/2024

Meet Christian Escobedo

The Elgin Community College (ECC) men’s soccer team recruited ECC student-athlete Christian Escobedo, of Glendale Heights, Illinois, to come play for the team this fall. Under new head coach Dimitri Tsoukalas, the team has excelled in a record-breaking season.

Gema Atta, student life coordinator

Student Profile

Published 11/08/2024

From Student to Staff: Gema Atta

Gema Atta, student life coordinator at Elgin Community College (ECC), is the youngest of five sisters. Deciding to attend ECC wasn’t a difficult choice for her— an Atta legacy had already been established on campus.

ECC student Leslie Galvan

Student Profile

Published 11/04/2024

Meet Leslie Galvan

Elgin Community College (ECC) student Leslie Galvan of St. Charles, Illinois, immigrated to the US with her two brothers in 2021. Galvin’s ECC journey began in English as a Second Language (ESL) and pre-algebra courses. She pursued college credit classes after improving her English and basic academic skills.

ECC student Thomee Bolden

Student Profile

Published 10/28/2024

Meet Thomee Bolden

On November 8, Elgin Community College (ECC) student Thomee Bolden will take the stage in the ECC Theatre production of “You Can’t Take It With You.” Bolden will play one of the main characters, Tony Kirby.

Logan Widtfeldt, executive assistant of institutional advancement and Sarah Stayner, office coordinator for student financial services

Student Profile

Published 10/28/2024

From Student to Staff: Sarah Stayner and Logan Widtfeldt

Every now and then, Elgin Community College (ECC) can foster more than just friendship between its students. Sarah Stayner, office coordinator for student financial services, and Logan Widtfeldt, executive assistant of institutional advancement, found love in one another while attending ECC as students.

A student using a CNC machine

Going to College

Published 10/21/2024

Manufacturing Month: Honoring our History, Building our Future

With the recent groundbreaking ceremony for ECC's new Manufacturing and Technology Center in September, it is fitting that we now celebrate Manufacturing Month throughout October.

ECC international student Grace Sakabunda

Student Profile

Published 10/18/2024

Meet Grace Sakabunda

Elgin Community College (ECC) international student Grace Sakabunda celebrated her first year in the U.S. this past August. Grace is thousands of miles from her home of Johannesburg, South Africa, to pursue her dream of becoming a doctor.

Industrial Manufacturing Technology Professor Umberto Tinajero.

Faculty Profile

Published 10/14/2024

From Student to Staff: Umberto Tinajero

Beginning as an English as a Second Language student, Tinajero progressed through ECC’s manufacturing programs, earned his associate degree, and later completed a bachelor’s degree and continued graduate studies. After a decade as an adjunct instructor, he became a full-time faculty member and was recognized with the 2024 Orrin G. Thompson Award for outstanding contributions to student learning and success.

ECC student Hedgar Barerra

Student Profile

Published 10/14/2024

Meet Hedgar Barerra

Elgin Community College (ECC) student Hedgar Barerra of Carpentersville, Illinois, was named the Vice President of the Asian Filipino Club this past year. Barerra began at ECC in 2022 and was encouraged by his friends to join the club and start coming to campus for student life events.

ECC student Percy Schulz

Student Profile

Published 10/07/2024

Meet Percy Schulz

Elgin Community College (ECC) student Percy Schulz of East Dundee, Illinois, isn’t afraid to expose his vulnerability to a crowd. During a storytelling event at ECC called “ECC Speaks,” Schulz told a story about his hair.

ECC students Mariana and Paola Gomez Garcia

Student Profile

Published 09/30/2024

Meet Mariana and Paola Gomez Garcia

Twin sisters Mariana and Paola Gomez Garcia, students at Elgin Community College (ECC), have led ECC’s student club, the Organization of Latin American Students (OLAS), for two semesters now. Although identical twins, they appear as opposites sitting behind their club table or out at a student life event, but they are on their academic journeys together.

Melissa Corral Quinones, post-secondary success coach for Elgin Community College’s (ECC) TRiO Talent Search

Staff Profile

Published 09/27/2024

From Student to Staff: Melissa Corral Quinones

When Melissa Corral Quinones, a post-secondary success coach for Elgin Community College’s (ECC) TRiO Talent Search, began her role in 2022, she remembers experiencing “a total 360,” having been a student not too long ago.

ECC student Maya Wade stand in front of her Wall Art in the Safety-Kleen Gallery

Student Profile

Published 09/23/2024

Meet Maya Wade

Maya Wade of Elgin, Illinois, decided to attend Elgin Community College (ECC) originally to pursue law. That changed drastically after her former pastor asked her to take over the video responsibilities at their church.

Liddy Hope, PhD, assistant professor of human services, assists ECC student Jess Heiser

Going to College

Published 09/17/2024

5 Accommodations to Help Students Achieve Academically

The struggle is real. But does it have to be? At Elgin Community College (ECC), we know that it takes hard work and dedication to succeed on your academic journey. We also understand that you’re more than just a student; you’re a person with an entire life outside of campus walls.

ECC student Maddy Fraser

Student Profile

Published 09/12/2024

Meet Maddy Fraser

Elgin Community College (ECC) student and Bartlett, Illinois resident Maddy Fraser, who uses they/them pronouns, found solace in the atmosphere ECC provided them.

ECC student body president Seth Hernandez

Student Profile

Published 09/06/2024

Meet Seth Hernandez of South Elgin

Elgin Community College student Seth Hernandez of South Elgin, Illinois, has been elected to serve as the student body president for the 2024 and 2025 academic years. As an advocate for his fellow students, Hernandez said he is committed to creating a welcoming and inclusive campus environment.

Diane Kerruish, senior executive assistant to the president

Administrator Profile

Published 08/30/2024

From Student to Staff: Diane Kerruish

Diane Kerruish, senior executive assistant to the president, has celebrated many milestones, both professional and personal, since enrolling at Elgin Community College in 1974.

Spartacus

Staff Profile

Published 08/23/2024

Meet Spartacus of Sparta

There's a new face around campus! Spartacus, Elgin Community College’s newest mascot, joined our campus community this fall. SpartaCat, ECC’s original mascot, gracefully handed over the position, ready to head into a much-deserved retirement.

Administrators and Faculty Celebrate at New Student Convocation

Going to College

Published 08/12/2024

What is New Student Convocation?

Kick Off Your College Journey at Elgin Community College’s New Student Convocation

Students in the Jobe Lounge

Going to College

Published 08/21/2024

5 Tips for Getting the Most Out of Your Time at Elgin Community College

We know that college is more than just classes, so here are 5 tips to help you make the most of your time here.

Students at First Stop

Going to College

Published 07/23/2024

Applying to College: 3 Tips

Applying to college can seem daunting. Do they really need ALL this information? Yes, they do! Here are three tips to ensure your application process goes as smoothly as possible!

ECC's Truck Driving Program

Academics | Going to College

Published 07/16/2024

Go to school, get a job: 4 in-demand career program options at ECC

Attending college can be life-changing for many, but that doesn’t mean you can’t feel uncertain about your future. When choosing a college degree or program or finishing one, that inevitable yet essential question, “Will I be able to get a job?” looms over us until it lands hard.

An Elgin Community College Financial Aid Officer assists a student

Going to College

Published 07/08/2024

Paying for College

You often hear “scholarships,” “free tuition,” “grants,” and “financial aid,” as if paying for college should be a breeze. But then you look into the cost of college and start asking yourself, “How can I afford it?”

ECC student Joseph Patino (left) with Joe Ruffalo, vice president of operations at MRK

Student Profile

Published 06/24/2024

Elgin Community College student Joseph Patino turns internship into employment

Elgin Community College student Joseph Patino dove into higher education after high school, beginning at ECC in August 2023. Determined to forge a path for his future, Patino sought further guidance through ECC’s Future Workforce Leaders Program.

ECC alum Sandro Miller in his Chicago home and studio

Alumni Profile | ECC 75

Published 06/19/2024

The photographer: Sandro Miller

Sandro Miller's story is one of resilience, passion, and the transformative power of photography. The world-renowned photographer has collaborated with icons such as Michael Jordan and John Malkovich. But his journey began far from the glitz and glamour of success — it started at Elgin Community College (ECC), fueled by a desire to escape a difficult childhood and a deep fascination with capturing the world through a lens.

ECC alum Lisa Marshall in her family home

Alumni Profile | ECC 75

Published 06/19/2024

The CEO: Lisa Marshall

Lisa Marshall recently celebrated her first year as the CEO of the Wisconsin Board of Realtors, an affiliate of the National Association of Realtors. Marshall, who said she is also the first Black CEO in her role, said she learned to strive for excellence through missteps.

ECC alum Frank Catalano at the House Pub in St. Charles, Ill.

Alumni Profile | ECC 75

Published 06/19/2024

The Musician: Frank Catalano

Grammy Award-winning saxophonist Frank Catalano has graced stages across the globe with his Frank Catalano Quartet jazz band. A former Elgin Community College Jazz Band member, Catalano’s musical journey has seen him collaborate with iconic American rock band The Smashing Pumpkins on six albums.

ECC student Elija Miskic in an welding classroom at ECC

Alumni Profile | ECC 75

Published 06/19/2024

“Bright Future” campaign empowers students to succeed

Elgin Community College Foundation initiated the public phase of a student-centered “Bright Futures” fundraising campaign in December 2023 to help more students achieve their dreams. Despite the affordability and accessibility offered by community colleges, many students increasingly require assistance to persist in pursuing higher education.

Students smiling in classroom

Going to College

Published 06/13/2024

Why College is Right for You

Is a college education worth it?

Melia Delaney, student speaker for the Spring 2024 Career and Technical Programs Commencement Ceremony

Accomplishment | Commencement | Graduation Essays | Student Profile

Published 05/21/2024

Melia Delaney: It was ECC that helped me make that difference

Let's give another round of applause for our graduates here today! All that work and effort to bring each one of us here. It's the work of these 200-plus students that fills this space, with so many more watching online right now.

Alex Greiff, student speaker for the Spring 2024 University Transfer Commencement Ceremony

Accomplishment | Commencement | Graduation Essays | Student Profile

Published 05/21/2024

Alexander Greiff: Never forget what you have accomplished here

The American philosopher Ralph Waldo Emerson once said, “It’s not the destination; it’s the journey. Truer words were never spoken. My journey here at ECC has been nothing short of remarkable.

Elgin Community College Spring 2024 graduate Kimberly Carreto-Duran

Commencement | Graduation Essays | Student Profile

Published 05/15/2024

Kimberly Carreto-Duran: I decided I wouldn't let my fear bring me down

During my senior year of high school, I had the opportunity to join the Dual Credit Program at Elgin Community College. At first, I was very doubtful about it. I didn't know if I was capable enough to take on this challenge and if it was going to be good for my mental health.

Elgin Community College Spring 2024 Graduate Julian Juarez

Commencement | Graduation Essays | Student Profile

Published 05/15/2024

Julian Juarez: I have found purpose and meaning in my life and future

My time at Elgin Community College has been nothing short of an enlightening experience and the beauty of graphic design. I have been supported by encouraging professors, talented classmates, and kind friends throughout my three years.

Elgin Community College Spring 2024 Graduate Fitz Ramirez

Commencement | Graduation Essays | Student Profile

Published 05/15/2024

Fitz Ramirez: I have learned and accomplished much more than I thought I ever would

When I first graduated high school, I was unsure what career I wanted to pursue. So, when I enrolled at Elgin Community College, I went for an Associate in Arts degree to get my general education courses out of the way and explore different fields to discover the career I am passionate about.

Elgin Community College Spring 2024 Graduate Fatima Ahmed

Commencement | Graduation Essays | Student Profile

Published 05/15/2024

Fatima Ahmed: Every opportunity I discovered, I attempted to take advantage of

I didn’t expect much of ECC, especially since I had heard little about it. However, in an effort to act alongside my mindset of ‘new school, new me,’ I entered excited yet neutral with the simple goal of having better experiences than my past two years. ECC began to exceed my expectations quickly.

Elgin Community College Spring 2024 Graduate Elizabeth Del Rio

Commencement | Graduation Essays | Student Profile

Published 05/15/2024

Elizabeth Del Rio: Do not be afraid to put yourself out there

I am a first-generation college student; both my parents are Mexican immigrants. They wanted me to have better opportunities than they did, and thanks to their sacrifice and daily motivation, I am now the first in my family to graduate college.

Elgin Community College Spring 2024 graduate Diana Ayala

Commencement | Graduation Essays | Student Profile

Published 05/15/2024

Diana Ayala: I wouldn’t be where I am today if I hadn’t stepped out of my comfort zone

My time at Elgin Community College has been a journey of self-discovery. Right after school, I felt lost in what career path to follow. I decided to attend a community college to explore my options and transfer to a four-year college because I ultimately knew I wanted to pursue a bachelor’s degree.

Elgin Community College Spring 2024 Graduate Chuck Snoad

Commencement | Graduation Essays | Student Profile

Published 05/15/2024

Chuck Snoad: At ECC, I recognize the values that brought me to the mental health field

I have lived experience with mental illness, specifically depression and anxiety. In the spring of 2022, I heard about the Recovery Support Specialist program at Elgin Community College while attending a National Alliance on Mental Illness support group. Open to sharing my recovery story to help others heal—the core component of working as a recovery support specialist—I applied online and was accepted within a week.

Elgin Community College Spring 2024 Graduate Christopher Ferrusca Nava

Commencement | Graduation Essays | Student Profile

Published 05/15/2024

Christopher Ferrusca Nava: It’s not always about how you start; it's how you finish

On March 20, 2022, I was honorably discharged from the United States Navy, culminating almost four years of active duty service. Many people have asked me why I chose to join the military, particularly at 18. The truth is, at that time, I didn't have a clear direction for my life after high school.

Elgin Community College Spring 2024 Graduate April Ramangkoun

Commencement | Graduation Essays | Student Profile

Published 05/15/2024

April Ramangkoun: The world is full of good people. If you can’t find one, be one

In 2010, fresh out of high school at the age of 18, I enlisted in the United States Army as a combat medic. During my service, I experienced many things that forced me to ‘grow up’ faster than the average person my age. I spent my 21st birthday celebrating with Welch’s grape juice while deployed in Afghanistan.

Elgin Community College Spring 2024 Graduate Adrian Nevarez

Commencement | Graduation Essays | Student Profile

Published 05/15/2024

Adrian Nevarez: ECC provides such a great opportunity

Every day here mostly seems the same. Students, both younger and older, make their way to classes, and the faculty all work to ensure that this area is a great place for that. For the two years I attended Elgin Community College, that’s what it looked like on the surface.

Elgin Community College Spring 2024 Graduate Matt Brady

Commencement | Graduation Essays | Student Profile

Published 05/14/2024

Matt Brady: This college lives up to its name: A community

My attendance at Elgin Community College was born out of uncertainty about the future. Right on the heels of leaving for an expensive four-year college in 2021, I began to question whether the life-changing decision I was about to make was right.

Elgin Community College Spring 2024 Graduate Loreanne Ugochukwu

Commencement | Graduation Essays | Student Profile

Published 05/14/2024

Loreanne Ugochukwu: Don’t let anyone make you believe you can’t

I remember driving past Elgin Community College a few times over the years and thought, “Wow, such beautiful grounds.” It didn’t look anything like I had envisioned a community college to look like. I got the nudge to go back to school after hearing an ad on the radio that talked about obtaining a degree in two years would allow you to work with children in foster care.

ECC student Michael Hall

Student Profile

Published 05/06/2024

Meet Michael Hall

Elgin Community College student Michael Hall interacts with many faces on campus as a student worker for the café and cafeteria. The convenience of an on-campus job has kept Hall behind the counter for the past two years.

Nick Brown, student success coach

Staff Profile

Published 04/29/2024

Take Five with...Nick Brown

Nick Brown, student success coach, is an Elgin Community College Alum and is happy to be back in the hallways he once graced as a student.

ECC student-athlete Ty Sierpien

Student Profile

Published 04/22/2024

Meet Ty Sierpien

Elgin Community College student-athlete Ty Sierpien’s last semester at ECC is coming to a bittersweet end this spring. The second baseman and occasional pitcher for the ECC baseball team said he’s enjoying his final season and plans to transfer to Northern Illinois University in the fall.

Ami Kalisek, massage therapy adjunct faculty member

Faculty Profile

Published 04/15/2024

Take Five with…Ami Kalisek

Ami Kalisek, massage therapy adjunct faculty member, began at Elgin Community College just over 20 years ago. She began teaching at ECC at the start of the Massage Therapy Program and has been a massage therapist since 1989.

ECC nursing student Nichole Drab

Student Profile

Published 04/11/2024

Meet Nichole Drab

Nearly 20 years after graduating high school, Nichole Drab, is following her passion for nursing.

Shelby Stanley, ophthalmic technician program director

Academics | Administrator Profile

Published 04/08/2024

Shelby Stanley shares unconventional journey into ophthalmic tech

Since childhood, my fascination with biology and health care sciences has been unwavering. It began with seeing my mother work hard for her nursing degree from a community college.

ECC student Isabela Olivarez

Student Profile

Published 04/08/2024

Meet Isabela Olivarez

Math lover Isabela Olivarez, a student at Elgin Community College, has had a passion for numbers since she was a little girl. “I’ve taken a lot of math classes here, and when I got into calculus and higher-level classes, I found that I really liked it,” Olivarez said. “It’s a challenge for me, and I like getting to know the answer because there always is one.”

ECC nursing student Rida Lakhani

Student Profile

Published 04/01/2024

Meet Rida Lakhani

When Elgin Community College student Rida Lakhani of West Dundee entered the nursing program, she was the youngest in her class but held little fear in pursuing her passion for becoming a nurse. Lakhani got her early start in the nursing program because she completed her Associate of Arts degree while simultaneously receiving her high school diploma as a Dual Credit Program student.

ECC student Lesley Kwarteng

Student Profile

Published 03/18/2024

Meet Lesley Kwarteng

Elgin Community College student Lesley Kwarteng of Elgin said he was a curious child, always asking questions and raising his hand in the classroom. Unexpectedly, a skinned knee when he was younger led to his passion for chemistry, as he questioned what ointments his mom was putting on the injury and why they would help him heal.

Chris Foster, multimedia and creative services coordinator

Staff Profile

Published 03/18/2024

Take Five with…Chris Foster

Chris Foster, multimedia and creative services coordinator, brought his talents to ECC’s Marketing and Communications Department in October 2022. He was doing similar work at another college, and we couldn’t be happier he’s here as a Spartan, helping develop and produce award-winning video content for the college’s marketing and enrollment efforts.

Maggie Wright, communications and social media manager

Administrator Profile

Published 03/11/2024

Take Five with…Maggie Wright

Maggie Wright, communications and social media manager, knows what she’s doing when she snaps your photo for a social media post on ECC’s channels. Wright owned her own photography business for 12 years before working in a nonprofit as their fundraising and event coordinator and finding her home here at Elgin Community College in 2023.

ECC international student Daniel Alves

Student Profile

Published 03/08/2024

Meet Daniel Alves

Elgin Community College international student Daniel Alves is embarking on his next journey here in the US. Originally from Parana, Brazil, the culinary arts graduate decided to enroll in ECC’s criminal justice program.

ECC student Jess Heiser

Student Profile

Published 03/04/2024

Meet Jess Heiser of St. Charles

Elgin Community College student Jess Heiser of St. Charles said the drive to help people started as a child. Heiser plans on majoring in social work and is pursuing an Associate of Arts degree and an Associate of Applied Science – Human Services Generalist degree.

Sarah Bass, English adjunct faculty member

Faculty Profile

Published 03/01/2024

Take Five with…Sarah Bass

Sarah Bass, English adjunct faculty member, is a natural teacher and leader. Bass, who grew up in West Chicago, was the oldest of seven siblings. She graduated with her Bachelor’s degree from Amherst College, double majoring in English Literature and Black Studies.

Sarah Stayner, office coordinator of enrollment services

Staff Profile

Published 02/23/2024

Take Five with…Sarah Stayner

Many roles at Elgin Community College spill over and splash into multiple departments. That’s never been truer for Sarah Stayner, office coordinator of enrollment services. Stayner supports Admissions & Recruitment, Registration & Records, First Stop, Testing, Global Engagement, and Financial Aid.

ECC student Esme Rodriguez

Announcement

Published 02/23/2024

Meet Esme Rodriguez of Carpentersville

Elgin Community College student Esme Rodriguez said that as high school graduation approached, she was still unsure about which career path to take. But it turns out she didn’t have to search for long. Her passion for automotive work stemmed from a young age, and in the fall 2023 semester, she enrolled at ECC.

Tremayne Simpson, EdD, associate dean of sustainability, business, and career technologies

Announcement

Published 02/20/2024

Take Five with…Tremayne Simpson

Tremayne Simpson, EdD, associate dean of sustainability, business, and career technologies, is no stranger to higher education. Having worked in the industry for over 15 years, he decided to bring his skills and experience to Elgin Community College in 2023.

Innocent Ngalewa, ECC international student

Student Profile

Published 02/12/2024

Meet Innocent Ngalewa

In his home country of Tanzania, Africa, Elgin Community College student Innocent Ngalewa practiced medicine — a childhood dream he made his reality through hard work, focus, and grit. Although Ngalewa was living his dream, he said he barely survived, making between $600 and $700 monthly. So, in January of 2021, Ngalewa made the courageous decision to move to the United States for a better life.

Patrick Carberry, assistant professor of English

Faculty Profile

Published 02/02/2024

Take Five with…Patrick Carberry

Patrick Carberry, assistant professor of English, joined Elgin Community College just last year, commuting over from Evanston, Ill., where he’s lived for about ten years. Growing up in the south suburbs of Chicago, Carberry attended Illinois State University on a speech and debate scholarship.

Ian Smith, ECC student-athlete

Student Profile

Published 02/02/2024

Meet Ian Smith of Bartlett

Like many kids, Ian Smith, of Bartlett, wanted to be a professional athlete, and his sights were set on the NBA. Although childhood dreams changed over time, he showed up strong on the court to play varsity for three years at his high school and continued to play for the Elgin Community College men’s basketball team.

ECC student Wanchay Itmis

Student Profile

Published 01/26/2024

Meet Wanchay Itmis of Elgin

A mother. A wife. A lawyer. An immigrant. After enrolling in one art course at Elgin Community College to allow her daughter access to ECC’s early childhood lab school, Wanchay Itmis adds the title “Artist” to her resume.

Stephen Stassen, emergency management administrator

Administrator Profile

Published 01/26/2024

Take Five with…Stephen Stassen

Stephen Stassen, emergency management administrator, is here for each of us on Elgin Community College’s campus. In his role, Stassen helps support routine matters like weather forecasts for special events and coordinating responses for potential major disruptions that may affect the college.

Ryan Kolbusz, ECC student trustee

Student Profile

Published 01/19/2024

Meet Ryan Kolbusz of South Elgin

Ryan Kolbusz, of South Elgin, is charting his way through his final semester at Elgin Community College. As ECC’s 2023-24 student trustee and a student worker at ECC’s First Stop, the college’s information desk, he’s a familiar face ready to go above and beyond to help his peers and the campus community.