Richard J. Daley College

Meet Paulina Szkodon, Valedictorian, and Emiliano Escutia, Salutatorian of the — two Richard J. Daley College graduates whose journeys show how determination can open new doors.

For Paulina, returning to mathematics after more than a decade away required courage and trust in herself. As a first‑generation immigrant student, she relied on family and friends for support while rebuilding confidence in a challenging field. Today, she graduates as a two‑time Presidential Scholar, President of the Student Government Association, and an active member of Phi Theta Kappa and the Daley Honors College. She now plans to pursue advanced degrees in mathematics—and one day create a daycare that introduces children to STEM at an early age.

Emiliano’s path was shaped by curiosity and accountability. A setback programming an autonomous robot in high school sparked a deeper interest in computer science that has since evolved into a passion for data, probability, and statistical modeling. A first‑generation college student and the oldest sibling in his family, Emiliano learned time management and discipline through caring for and tutoring his younger sister. Beyond the classroom, he continues to build his skills through hackathons, professional workshops, and a Google Data Analytics certification.

Congratulations to two graduates whose stories reflect the promise of possibility through education. 💛 🎓 🌟 Meet all of the 2026 Vals & Sals: https://graduation.ccc.edu/top-students/

The City Colleges of Chicago School of Engineering offers transfer pathways to a bachelor's degree in Engineering or Computer Science. The curriculum is rigorous, but the optional Summer Bridge program can help ensure you're ready. With a math-intensive, chemistry-infused approach, the Bridge provides full support to students.

The deadline to apply for this year's Bridge is May 1. Learn more at www.ccc.edu/engineering.

🙋🏻‍♀️ Join us for the second ACTIVATE event, filled with interactive STEM, technology, and engineering activities. Discover our facilities including Makerspace and Robotics, gaining valuable exposure to innovative technologies, and connect with emerging fields in STEM and Advanced Manufacturing.

🚗🥐 Free parking is available, and we’ll have light breakfast refreshments ready for you.

Don’t miss your chance to get inspired and take the next step toward your future!

📅 Saturday, May 16
🕙 10:00 AM – 1:00 PM
📍 MTEC @ Daley College: 4101 W 76th St
👉 RSVP NOW: tinyurl.com/DaleyActivate516

Congratulations to Emiliano Escutia, Daley College's 2026 salutatorian! The Southwest Chicago Post has details at this link: http://www.swchicagopost.com/2026/04/hes-man-to-look-up-to.html

Thank you to everyone who joined us this morning to celebrate. Adult Education sponsored our “Honor Your Cultura” El Grito event. Join us again today at 6:30 pm for the second celebration!

This week, we are celebrating Adult Education and Family Literacy Week, as students like Ana Santillan from Richard J. Daley College share why Adult Education matters. Ana’s sign reads, “Adult Education matters because it can help you find a better job and give you more confidence to achieve your dreams.” Illinois Community College Board

Richard J. Daley College was so proud to be part of this community celebration:

On August 25, the National Community College Hispanic Council (NCCHC) presented City Colleges of Chicago Chancellor Juan Salgado with its prestigious Liderazgo Visionario CEO Award for 2025. The award honors an executive whose “visionary leadership has significantly benefited their community college and its Hispanic student population.” Read more: https://colleges.ccc.edu/2025/08/27/chancellor-salgado-receives-national-award-for-commitment-to-equity-access-and-student-success/

Please note: all City Colleges of Chicago campuses will be closed in observance of Labor Day on Monday, September 1. Have a safe and restful 3-day weekend!

Welcome to the fall semester!

Welcome to the first day of the fall semester at City Colleges of Chicago! We'll see you on campus.