Franklin Ocaña II
Published on: October 15, 2024
Franklin Ocaña II returned to Oakton in 2022 to study Fine Arts. In his art, Franklin explores themes such as his Puerto Rican identity, the concept of home and mental health.
“I haven’t always been a big fan of school, but that changed at Oakton. I just love coming here—it’s so peaceful to me, it just relaxes me. It’s because I 100 percent feel like I belong here. This is my place."
Maciej Padowski, M.D., Oakton College Distinguished Alumni honoree, is the Medical Director of the Emergency Department at Ascension Saint Joseph - Elgin Hospital. Read how he pivoted careers.
Helen Hurry, Oakton College Distinguished Alumni Honoree ‘24, has made a transformational difference in the lives and the communities of those she works with. Be inspired by her persistence and story.
Published on: October 15, 2024
Franklin Ocaña II returned to Oakton in 2022 to study Fine Arts. In his art, Franklin explores themes such as his Puerto Rican identity, the concept of home and mental health.
Published on: October 7, 2024
“When you develop a chronic illness after being able-bodied, everything changes. It’s like telling the Flash he has to crawl—you can’t go at the speed you’re used to. My advice to anyone going through a tough time is this: You are stronger than you think."
Published on: September 17, 2024
EJ Smith is a machinist at a local manufacturing company who is rising in the ranks with training in computer numerical control (CNC) operation at Oakton.
Published on: September 17, 2024
Yann arrived at Oakton looking for a fresh start and the opportunity to learn how to grow his small business.
Published on: January 16, 2024
After immigrating to the United States from Brazil in March 2020, Victor Leca set his sights on a college degree.
Published on: January 16, 2024
Oakton alum Steven Gan knows firsthand the experience of caring for a loved one. He embarked on an educational journey at Oakton, where he found a community of professors and advisors who encouraged him to explore a new career in the medical field.
Published on: January 10, 2024
When Sanele Stewart graduated from high school, he wasn't sure what he wanted to do next.
Published on: December 8, 2023
Lydia Delgado found her path at Oakton as she completed pre-requisite courses needed before her Doctoral in Occupational Therapy degree at University of Illinois Chicago.
Published on: December 7, 2023
Elizabeth Perez is a driven and passionate student whose journey to a fulfilling career in nursing began while she was still in high school.