Publish Date: May 23, 2017
Hartnell presents the largest graduating class yet!
SALINAS, Calif. – Hartnell College is proud to present the Class of 2017 at Commencement this Friday, May 26, 2017 at 6:00 p.m. Rabobank Stadium at 175 Maryal Drive, Salinas, CA.
This year, Hartnell College will recognize 1092 students - the largest number of graduates to date. There will be 1108 associate’s degrees and 767 certificates issued. Among the graduates, 14 are valedictorians and 414 are graduating with honors.
“At commencement each year, we get to recognize our students who have reached their educational goals at Hartnell,” said Superintendent/President, Dr. Willard Lewallen. “These students have demonstrated tremendous tenacity, perseverance, and grit in achieving their goals.”
During the ceremony, the 2017 Distinguished Alumnus, Emmett Linder will address the crowd with an inspirational keynote speech. Valedictorian Alex Gomez will address the audience on behalf of his peers.
“I look forward to personally congratulating these students during the commencement ceremony and joining with their families in celebrating their accomplishments,” Dr. Lewallen added.
Among the Class of 2017, we have two sisters graduating together, two students with birthdays on graduation day, 15 students who share the name Jose, 28 students who share the name Maria, our oldest graduating student is 60, our youngest graduating student is 19, and one will be receiving his 11th and 12 th degree.
Media contact for graduation is Esmeralda Montenegro Owen at 831-206-9422 or email at emontenegro@hartnell.edu . An admission pass is required for all guests. Media passes for press.
Hartnell Community College District – established in 1920
The Hartnell CCD serves over 17,000 students annually through its main campus in Salinas, the Alisal Campus in East Salinas, the King City Education Center, and various outreach learning centers throughout the Salinas Valley. Hartnell College, a Hispanic Serving Institution, provides workforce training, basic skills courses, and prepares students for transfer to four-year colleges and universities. Hartnell College is recognized for its innovative public and private partnerships that support world class STEM education, career technical education, fine and performing arts, humanities, and athletics. We are proud to be the winners of the Innovation Award for CSin3 – a Computer Science degree in three years. We are growing leaders through opportunity, engagement, and achievement. For more about Hartnell CCD, visit www.hartnell.edu .
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