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As part of its RISE 2030 strategic plan, Waubonsee Community College is strengthening the student experience by providing ongoing opportunities for its students to bridge the gap between classroom theory, leadership, and civic engagement. A collaborative partnership between the Office of the President, Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion, and the Latinx Resource Center supported a group of 22 students and staff to return to the United States Hispanic Leadership Institute (USHLI) National Conference, held in Chicago on February 12-15, 2026.
"This experience was inspiring and eye-opening," said Waubonsee student David Atabongafac, of North Aurora. "It felt powerful to be in a space filled with students who care about leadership, culture, and community. I felt challenged to think bigger about my role on campus and in society. It wasn't just an event; it was a reminder of why I started this journey in the first place."
"Being in a space filled with leaders passionate about education and culture motivated me to reflect on the impact I want to make in the future," said Waubonsee student Melany Herrera, of North Aurora.
The success of these initiatives is illustrated by the journey of Lourdes Magana, of Aurora. A graduate of West Aurora High School, Magana spent her summer working extra shifts to self-fund her education at Waubonsee. Last year, her hard work and leadership potential were recognized on USHLI’s national stage, where she was named a 2025 Dr. Juan Andrade Jr. Scholarship for Young Hispanic Leaders Recipient. It recognizes Hispanic students with demonstrated financial need and a commitment to servant leadership.
“As a first-generation college student, receiving USHLI’s national scholarship felt more than just financial relief. I was so proud to receive that scholarship because it reminded me that all my hard work is paying off,” says Magana. Since receiving that national recognition, Magana has earned her Basic Nurse Assistant Training certificate at Waubonsee.
"I feel grateful to have had the opportunity to witness our students become inspired and realize their full potential for a second year in a row,” said Latinx Engagement Coordinator Araceli Muñoz Salazar.
Waubonsee’s commitment to providing transformative opportunities to students reflects the diversity of its student body, with over 59% of Waubonsee students identifying as an ethnicity other than White. Across its four campuses, Waubonsee’s multicultural student body is a place where various histories, languages, stories and communities converge.
“Students can gain so many things from attending conferences like USHLI. For example, I felt a sense of family and belonging while relating to other students on what their goals are to further connect their communities,” said Waubonsee student Sophia Martinez Devaldivielso. “There are certain things that students are able to take back home and apply in their daily lives and current career choices/plans.”
To further support the community, the Latinx Resource Center invites prospective students and their families to "Your Voice Matters: Advocacy and Social Justice” on March 25. Held as part of the College of Empowerment (Colegio de Empoderamiento), this free workshop will take place from 5:30 to 7 p.m. at Waubonsee’s Aurora Downtown Campus, located on 18 S. River St. Sessions will be in Spanish.
Visit waubonsee.edu/coe to learn more and register. Discover how Waubonsee is strengthening the student experience by visiting waubonsee.edu/RISE.
Above: Waubonsee Community College students attended the United States Hispanic Leadership Institute (USHLI) National Conference, held in Chicago on February 12-15, 2026.
Pictured in the back row (left to right): Issac Del Toro; David Atabongafac; Luis Baez; David Daniel; Alondra Anguiano; Ariana Anguiano; Juliana Barajas; Andrea Leon; Alexis Quiroga
Middle row (left to right): Gianna King; Daniel Basurto; Cynthia Patino; Michelle Alaniz; Maria Santillan; Diego Vargas; Anali Casarez; Melany Herrera
Front row (center, left to right): Angela Bolanos; Sophia Martinez Devaldivielso; Daniela Alfano. Not pictured: Cynthia Serna and Bianka Valdez
