05/01/2026
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/
