FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
CONTACT:
Doug Schultz
Communications Supervisor
626-852-6497
dschultz@citruscollege.edu
Record Number of Graduates Celebrated at Citrus College Commencement Ceremony
Glendora, Calif. (June 19, 2018) – Citrus College celebrated a record-breaking number of graduates during its 102nd annual commencement ceremony on June 16.
With 1,674 students applying for graduation, the Citrus College class of 2018 includes 270 more students than the class of 2016, which holds the previous college record. This is the largest graduating class in the college's history.
"Citrus College has been committed to increasing completion rates for several years, and the entire college community strives to create an environment in which students are empowered to reach their academic goals. These numbers show that we are doing just that," said Dr. Geraldine M. Perri, superintendent/president. "I am very proud of each of this year's graduates. Their persistence and determination have driven them to complete their associate degrees, and this will undoubtedly serve them well as they continue to pursue their goals."
In addition to being the largest graduating class, the class of 2018 also received the highest number of associate degrees for transfer (ADT). In fact, 27 percent more ADTs were awarded this year than during the 2016-2017 academic year.
Glendora resident Julianne Rodriguez is a member of this year's graduating class who received an ADT in art, as well as an associate of arts degree. Transferring to a university in the fall, her ultimate goal is to earn a Ph.D. in medical anthropology.
"Citrus College helped me realize that I am capable of so much more," she said. "I would never have reached my potential had I not enrolled. I am so grateful that I have been given the opportunity to make something of myself."
Brenda Elizabeth Chavez was also among those honored during Saturday's ceremony. A resident of Covina, she enrolled at Citrus College to save money on her undergraduate education and prepare for transfer to a prestigious university.
Brenda will be attending the University of California, Berkeley, in the fall and hopes to become a college professor.
"Citrus College is a place that provides students with the tools they need to be successful in the future," she said.
Dr. Patricia A. Rasmussen, president of the Citrus Community College District Board of Trustees, believes that the experiences of these two graduates are representative of many Citrus College students.
"More than 20,000 students enroll in classes at Citrus College every year, and they each have unique goals and challenges. The stories of achievement that can be told by the Citrus College class of 2018 are inspirational," Dr. Rasmussen said. "On behalf of the board of trustees and the entire college community, I congratulate each student who has reached this significant academic milestone. We are so grateful that you chose Citrus College to help you reach your goals."
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