Record number of participants at CCC graduation ceremonies

More than 420 students participated in two graduation ceremonies at Clackamas Community College (CCC) June 13 and 14 – a record number for the college. Ninety-three students took part in Thursday’s GED and Adult High School Diploma ceremony, while 318 students participated in Friday’s degree and certificate ceremony.

In 2013, 415 total students earned the GED (General Education Development). The oldest person earning a GED was 64, and the youngest was 16. Twelve students earned an Adult High School Diploma.

During the 2012-13 academic year, CCC conferred 1,520 degrees and certificates. The oldest student earning a degree or certificate is 69, and the youngest student is 17. One hundred graduates earned a 4.0 cumulative grade point average, and 542 earned a cumulative GPA between 3.5 and 3.989.

Each year a number of students, nominated by their instructors, are recognized for their achievements during graduation. Some of these students are academic achievers while others have overcome great personal obstacles to receive their degree, certificate or diploma. This year’s honored students are:

• Nelva Ramirez Sierra, who came to this country as a teenager and began working in the fields picking fruit. She earned her GED.
• Anthony Morales, a former homeless man, who earned a GED at 33 and went on to earn his degree in Water and Environmental Technology at CCC.
• Jeremy Hutson, completed his nursing degree after returning to school at 40. He has been a leader involving nursing students in service projects.
• Suzanne Richards escaped a violent relationship five years ago. Through her classes and instructors at CCC she rebuilt her life and graduated with a degree in human services.
• Pam Kedev started taking CCC classes at CCC as a sophomore at Clackamas Middle College. She is one of two students at CCC recognized by Gov. John Kitzhaber as part of the All Oregon Academic Team.
• Jeffrey Kesterson entered CCC’s manufacturing program after losing his job in the retail industry. He has earned several scholarships, earned a 4.0 GPA and was part of the All Oregon Academic Team.

Another highlight of the graduation ceremony Friday was the final concert of vocal instructor Lonnie Cline. He has worked with CCC for 32 years.

For information about graduation at CCC, please contact Janis Rosenlof at 503-594-3022.

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