Office Space: Javier Coronado-Aliegro

Javier Coronado-Aliegro started at Elgin Community College as an adjunct faculty member in 2011. After becoming a full-time faculty member in 2013, he settled into his home away from home.  

“We spend so much time in our workplaces, it should feel comfortable and reflect who you are,” he said.  

This Spanish professor has always been good with languages. They came naturally to him. Being a native Spanish speaker, he learned French first, and then English, before it dominoed from there. 

Since starting 14 years ago, he’s been amazed at how much the college has grown and changed —from the midcentury touches of the older buildings to the modern design of the new spaces. 

“We are so lucky to have such a nice campus. We have all of these connecting buildings, they are blend into one another so seamlessly.”  

This lifelong learner has a secret soft spot for books and all things comics, with little nods to characters placed all around his office. Read more about Coronado-Aliegro below! 

What is the theme of your space? I have no idea! I guess it is who I am. So much of this has been given to me, it all means so much.  

What is your favorite thing here and why? Two things: I have this art print. This print was given to me in 2000. This was in my apartment in Akron, Ohio, and has come with me everywhere. I love the idea of having an art poster from the National Gallery of Art. The other thing is my family crest and the history of my last name. I got it at a Renn Faire in California. It was such a surprise to find it. I learned so much about my last name.  

What is your snack stash and what is your go to? I love miso soup for lunch, oatmeal is always in here, there are a few munchies, and some iced tea.  

What do you listen to while you are working? Favorite music or podcast? I always have music on! I use Spotify now. I have a lot of playlists, but they have so many. Indie, house music, 80s, it all depends on how I am feeling.  

Do you have an office supply you are obsessed with? Gel pens for grading. I have tried others, but the gels are the smoothest.