Simiat
When Simiat first heard about City Colleges of Chicago’s Early College Program as a junior at Dr. Martin Luther King College Prep High School, she knew it was an opportunity she couldn’t pass up.
In his role as an Adult Education transition specialist at Malcolm X College, Abel Gonzalez helps students who are taking English as a Second Language (ESL) and high school diploma preparation classes continue their education. He supports students with completing their college applications and registering for classes, all while making sure they know about the diverse educational opportunities Malcolm X has to offer.
Abel’s goal is to create a welcoming, inviting environment for students because he knows that the best way to support communities is through education. Due to his unwavering commitment to student success, Abel received a Luminary Award in the spring of 2025.
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