On June 16th, 2023, Clatsop Community College celebrated student achievement and success as the Patriot Hall gym floor transformed into a sea of green, filled with the proud graduates donning their caps and gowns. The 63rd annual Commencement Ceremony honored over 100 students who reached significant milestones in their educational journeys, including the completion of associate degrees, certificates, and GED programs.
The event commenced with Faculty Marshal Julie Brown giving opening remarks followed by Student Marshal Jennifer Ginn-Bennett along with GED student speakers Brandi Swiderski and Gaspar Van den heuvel addressing their fellow classmates and gathered family and friends in the audience. Guest Speaker Chris Gustafson, one of CCC’s first graduates of the Historic Preservation and Restoration program who now owns his own company, Vintage Window Restoration, shared his insights on the journey of life and what makes a person and community successful.
In addition to the annual Commencement Ceremony, CCC hosted other graduation festivities as well. The Nurses Pinning Ceremony was held on June 15th with students and their families gathered for this school of nursing tradition which signifies the official initiation into the nursing profession. Also on June 15th, CCC held their first ever Lavender Graduation which celebrated the accomplishments and history of queer graduates and allies.
Clatsop Community College congratulates all its graduates and applauds their dedication and hard work in pursuit of knowledge and personal growth. These remarkable individuals have not only accomplished significant milestones but are poised to contribute to their communities, making a positive impact in their chosen fields.
A link to commencement photos can be found on the Commencement webpage on the CCC website: www.clatsopcc.edu/academic-planning/graduation-commencement/
