GCCC Alumni Spotlight: Angelica Castillo Chappel
[Garden City, KS] August 4, 2025 – When Angelica Castillo Chappel graduated from Garden City Community College in 2007, the moment marked both a personal achievement and an important step forward for her and her family. A first-generation college student, Angelica began her educational journey at GCCC with a clear purpose: to invest in her future. “I knew that one of my biggest and most valuable investments would be to continue with my higher education,” she shared. “My local college, GCCC, provided an accessible and affordable way to build my knowledge, skills, and qualifications needed to stay competitive in today’s job market!”
At GCCC, Angelica found not just opportunity, but life-changing support. She credits the college’s Student Support Services (SSS), a federally funded TRIO program, for playing a major role in her success. “GCCC and their Student Support Services had a huge role in my educational journey,” she said. “The help was always there, from academic advising and tutoring to counseling and career guidance. They provided the encouragement, direction, and structure I needed to succeed. Support to others is my motto in life, and I learned a lot of that while attending GCCC!”
After earning her Associate in General Studies, Angelica transferred to Friends University to complete a degree in business administration with a focus on management. GCCC had laid a strong foundation academically, emotionally, and professionally. “It wasn’t just academics,” she said. “GCCC helped me believe in myself and pushed beyond what I thought was possible. They opened the door for me to reach the next level of success.”
Today, Angelica serves as Assistant Vice President at Security State Bank in Garden City, where she leads public relations efforts and more. In her role and in her life, she continues to embody the values she embraced at GCCC: dedication, service, and leadership.
“Being part of this alumni family is both an honor and a privilege I hold dear,” Angelica said. “I am incredibly proud to be a first-generation college graduate from my local college, GCCC. This journey wasn’t easy, but it was deeply meaningful, not just for me, but for my family. Walking across that stage was a moment that honored the sacrifices, hopes, and part of my parents’ American dream for their children. I hope my story inspires others to believe in what can be done, no matter how old you start. ¡Sí Se Puede!”
For current and future students considering GCCC, her message is clear and heartfelt. “You can do this! Your journey isn’t over. I did it, so can you. Education isn’t about age or timing. It’s about growth, and it’s never too late to take the next step. You are not alone. Right here in our own community is a local college filled with support, resources, and people who genuinely want to help you succeed, one step and one class at a time.”
Angelica’s story is one of resilience, gratitude, and the lasting impact of community-driven education. Through her success, she continues to show others what’s possible, starting right here at home.
Garden City Community College is proud to have played a part in Angelica’s path. Make a difference for future Busters by starting your own Endowed Scholarship through the GCCC President's Scholarship Initiative
From HERE, you can go ANYWHERE.
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Garden City Community College exists to produce positive contributors to the economic and social well-being of society.