THE FOLLOWING IS A DANVILLE AREA COMMUNITY COLLEGE RELEASE
DANVILLE – Danville Area Community College is proud to announce that alumnus and current Director of Audio, eSports, and Community Engagement Michael “Guido” Esteves has been named the 2025 recipient of the Illinois Community College Trustees Association (ICCTA) Pacesetter Award. He was honored at the ICCTA Awards Banquet held Friday, June 6 in Bloomington, Illinois.
The ICCTA Pacesetter Award recognizes recent community college graduates who have made outstanding achievements in their careers and in service to their communities. Esteves, who works full time for DACC, was chosen for his innovative work in music education, digital arts, eSports coaching, and student mentorship—all of which reflect the transformative power of community colleges.
A DACC graduate himself, Esteves returned to college as a non-traditional student, determined to create a meaningful path forward. He found that path at DACC, where he thrived academically and discovered his passion for teaching and mentoring students. Today, he serves as a volunteer music educator through the Project Success program, working directly with students at Danville High School. In this role, he uses music and creative expression not only as an educational tool, but as a way to introduce high school students to the opportunities available through community college.
In addition to his work in the classroom, Esteves is the driving force behind DACC’s nationally ranked eSports program. As head coach, he has guided Jaguar athletes to back-to-back national championships in Mario Kart and helped individual players achieve national rankings. His leadership has made DACC a standout in collegiate eSports and has opened new academic and career pathways for students interested in gaming, digital media, and technology.
“Guido is a powerhouse of creativity, energy, and heart,” said Dr. Randall Fletcher, DACC President. “Whether he’s teaching music, coaching eSports, or mentoring a student one-on-one, he gives his all—and students respond to that. His journey is a powerful example of what a community college graduate can accomplish.”
Outside the classroom, Esteves is known for his dedication to student engagement, diversity, and inclusion. He has helped hundreds of young people find their voice—whether through a musical performance, a digital project, or a competitive gaming experience. His work helps students see education as something personal, empowering, and achievable.
“Winning the Pacesetter Award is such an honor,” said Esteves. “But the real reward is seeing students grow into who they’re meant to be. DACC changed my life, and I’m just trying to pass that on.”
