On May 8, more than 1,360 SLCC students crossed the stage at the Maverick Center to celebrate the culmination of their SLCC career. Among them was Jesus Orozco Zavela, a first-generation college student whose journey is not just a personal achievement but a blueprint for his younger siblings of what is possible through resilience and community support.
For Jesus, the path to becoming an architect has been anything but straightforward. Without a familial roadmap to higher education, he had to navigate college life on his own. However, what began as a challenging journey became a profound experience of growth and empowerment. Jesus transformed what once felt like an intimidating environment into his second home, fueled by a passion for design and a commitment to building a brighter future.
"Many times, I was the last person leaving the STEM tutoring center," Jesus recalls with pride radiating from his smile. All the dedication and hours spent studying and investing in his education at the library resulted in Jesus graduating with honors. He acknowledges that it was not only his determination and hunger to succeed that led him here; he expressed his gratitude to his family, the SLCC STEM center, library resources, and faculty and staff at SLCC.
Jesus's vision for his future in architecture transcends the brick-and-mortar design. He aspires to create spaces that foster safety and community. "I hope through my designs I can create a building that are not only safe and aesthetically pleasing, but they create a welcoming and safe environment for all—whether they are hospitals, commercial spaces, or residences," he explains. His passion lies in creating places where people can feel at home, just as he did at SLCC.
As Jesus embarks on the next chapter of his education, pursuing a bachelor's degree in architecture, he carries with him a spirit that embodies the essence of the SLCC community—a spirit of empowerment, creativity, and determination. His journey reminds us that, with support and resilience, we can lay the foundations for both personal and community success.
To Jesus and all the 2026 SLCC graduates, congratulations! Welcome to the SLCC Alumni family, where your success is all our success!
Go Bruins!
Graduation by the numbers: