Phoenix College

Luis Duque arrived at college with a 2.3 GPA and, by his own admission, very little faith in himself. A PC track coach offered him a scholarship, and that athletic opportunity became the foundation for his academic pursuits. In May 2024, he crossed the stage at Arizona Veterans Memorial Coliseum to accept his Associate's degree in Criminal Justice — and enrolled in summer school the next day to begin his Bachelor of Applied Science in Public Safety Administration. Two years later, he stood on that same stage, this time with his bachelor's degree, a 4.0 grade point average, and the honor of being selected as the student commencement speaker.

Luis stepped up to the podium to address PC's Class of 2026. Behind him on stage were Phoenix College leaders dressed in their academic regalia. Before him on the coliseum floor were 765 Phoenix College graduates. Surrounding him in the stadium-style seats were 5,000 of the graduates' friends and families. Luis understood the weight of the moment. Just minutes before, Phoenix College Student Government President Galilea Guzman had calmed his nerves with quiet encouragement as they sat next to each other in their commencement caps and robes.

Luis started his speech with his characteristic upbeat energy. He shared a quote by Robert Collier. "In every adversity, there lies a seed of equivalent advantage." But when Luis started to describe the struggles he and his family have endured as immigrants, he was overcome with emotion and stepped back from the microphone. Within seconds, the audience's encouraging cheers echoed off the coliseum's walls, giving Luis the strength to continue his inspiring speech. He spoke about persisting through his struggles to find his purpose and ended his speech with an uplifting message.

"When you're tested in life, it's okay if you get scared, but don't let it stop you. Embrace it. See yourself doing great things, just like you did tonight. Congratulations, shoot for the sky, Class of 2026."

After the commencement ceremony Luis noted that “what truly broke me down was the thought of trying to help my people and having others tell me it’s not possible. When I say ‘my people’ I refer to those struggling in my communities.” More than 20 strangers sought him out to say his words had moved them. He continued, "I think the reason why the crowd was so supportive is because they could relate to a lot of the things I said."

Glad to have been part of Community College Day at the Capitol and to highlight the impact of community colleges! 🎓

Maricopa Community College Day at The Capitol! 👏