More than 260 Merced College students from the Los Banos area will be eligible to walk in the campus’s fourth annual commencement ceremony at the Los Banos Campus (22240 Highway 152) on Thursday, April 30 at 7 p.m.
The Los Banos ceremony continues to expand as more students choose to complete their education close to home, creating a celebration that reflects the strength and pride of the Westside community.
This year’s ceremony falls earlier on the calendar than in past years due to the college’s transition to 16-week semesters, a change aimed at improving course success and helping students reach completion more quickly.
“It’s been so rewarding to see this ceremony become such an important tradition for Los Banos and our surrounding communities,” said Jessica Moran, Dean of Instruction at the Los Banos Campus. “Each year, more students and families are able to celebrate this milestone close to home, and that sense of community makes the experience even more meaningful.”
This year’s graduating class reflects continued growth at the Los Banos Campus, with 263 students earning a total of 354 associate degrees. Among them, 72 students will graduate with honors, having earned a grade-point average of 3.50 or better with a minimum of 45 units completed, and 8 have earned President’s Honors for achieving a perfect 4.0 grade-point average.
Merced County District Attorney Nicole Silveira, a Merced College alumna, will deliver the keynote address. The ceremony will also be livestreamed at youtube.com/mercedcollege.
“Commencement is one of the most meaningful moments in the life of our students,” Merced College President Chris Vitelli said. “This year’s graduates represent resilience, determination and a deep commitment to their goals.”
