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Audio of the article was made possible by the CAST11 Prescott Podcast Network. Production of Talking Glass Media.
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Family, friends, classmates, faculty and staff celebrated the graduation of more than 340 Yavapai College students at the 53rd Annual Graduation Ceremony held at the Findlay Toyota Center in Prescott Valley on Sunday, May 7. .
Yavapai College’s Vice Chancellor of Student Affairs and Dean of Students Tania Sheldahl, a YC alum, opened the ceremony.
Photo credit: Yavapai College
Yavapai College’s Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs, Dr. Diane Ryan, welcomed the graduates.
Before introducing the keynote speakers, I would like to introduce faculty, family, and friends to Yavapai County Magistrate Mitchell J. Padilla.
Judge Padilla, a former board member of the Yavapai College District, spoke to attendees about the importance of hope and inspiration.
“You found hope in yourself, and someone or something inspired you to start this journey,” Padilla said. or pause or continue? Only you have these answers.”
In his remarks, Judge Padilla noted that some similarities may exist in this year’s graduate’s experience, noting that he himself was educated part-time while working a full-time job during the day. It indicates that he was a first-generation college student.
“One day, when you look back on your life and think about your achievements, know that they are important not only to you, but to those who look up to you. We are role models, and today someone looks up to us and sees how we “made it” and why we chose the path we took. increase. ”
Marie Hardman, Yavapai College Allied Health Instructor, spoke to YC alumni on behalf of the faculty, saying she didn’t get a college education until she was 26 despite graduating in the top 10 from high school in Maine. I was.
“Looking back on my childhood experiences, it’s no surprise that I became a teacher,” Hardman said. “I love learning. When my students are committed and respond with enthusiasm, I become their cheerleader. I like to encourage my students to explore in a safe environment.” I teach adults because their rich history provides a starting point for furthering their education.My passion is to inspire my students. ”
This year’s student speaker, Jamie Oltersdorf, is president of the Yavapai College Student Government Association and an Air Force veteran. Her educational journey she began in Kentucky in 2007 but was delayed due to military service in Altersdorf.
After a personal tragedy in 2020, Altersdorf needed a release. “I found that release in an art class here at Yavapai University,” she said.
“We are all destined to write. It’s up to us how we use our heads and hearts to get where we want to be and to be who we want to be.” It is true that many things have gone wrong, but it is also true that many things have gone well, and we are here today to embrace one of the things that went well.”
Dr. Lisa Rhine, President of Yavapai College, took the podium after the graduates crossed the stage to receive their degrees and certificates. “Today is the day you and your dreams come true. Never say that dreaming is a waste of time. Sow the seed,” Rhine said.
“Dreams do come true at community colleges. The great thing about community colleges is the diversity of ages and types of students who attend,” continued Rhine, adding that this year’s youngest graduate is 15 years old from Polden, and this year’s ‘s oldest graduate is 84 years old. She is a 1 year old resident of Cottonwood.
Yavapai College operates six campuses and centers throughout Yavapai County, offering over 100 degrees and certificates, bachelor’s degrees, student and community services, and cultural events and activities.
For more information on YC, please visit: www.yc.edu.
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