Kishwaukee College holds Spring 2017 Commencement ceremonies

Posted 5/29/17

Kishwaukee College held Commencement Ceremonies for the Spring 2017 graduates on May 20, at the college.

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Kishwaukee College holds Spring 2017 Commencement ceremonies

Posted

MALTA — Kishwaukee College held Commencement Ceremonies for the Spring 2017 graduates on May 20, at the college.
There were 585 students who completed the requirements for degrees, certificates and credentials in their programs in Spring 2017. The members of the Class of 2017 participated in one of two ceremonies held on campus dependent on program they completed. The graduates were celebrated by members of the Kishwaukee College Administration, faculty and staff as well as their families and friends.
During her welcome address at both ceremonies, Dr. Laurie Borowicz, President of Kishwaukee College, introduced the Board of Trustees’ members, citing their service to the college. She also recognized the administrative staff, stating, “The Senior Leadership Team and President’s Cabinet work closely with the staff under their direction and make recommendations, affecting the vision and mission of the college. They also work with the entire college staff to create a positive learning environment for our students.”
The 9 a.m. ceremony included students who completed Associate in Applied Sciences degrees and certificates in the Career Technology fields, Healthcare fields, Short-Term Training programs and the High School Equivalency Credential. There were 142 students who participated in the 9 a.m. ceremony. The 2017 John C. Roberts Community Service Award was also awarded during the ceremony. This year’s recipient was Bob Wildenradt, Sycamore.

The 11 a.m. ceremony included students who completed an Associate in Science, Associate in Arts, Associate in Fine Arts, and Associate in Engineering Science degrees, all of which are fully transferable to four-year colleges and universities. There were 114 students who participated in the 11 a.m. ceremony.
At both ceremonies, students received words of wisdom by speakers David Dammon, Criminal Justice instructor who delivered the Faculty Farewell address; and Gabrielle Cultra, Earlville, who was the student speaker; and Dr. Laurie Borowicz, President of Kishwaukee College, who delivered the Commencement Address.
Dammon drew on his experience as a police officer, regaling the graduates and guests with a story about an unfortunate traffic stop and then pulling 10 life lessons from the tale, including to trust one another, communicate, take action and not second guess yourself.
Cultra graduated with an Associate in Science degree and will be interning with the Whiteside County Farm Bureau this summer before she transfers to Iowa State University where she will study Agriculture Education. In her address, she shared her own story as a Kish student and the unique experiences it offered. She reminded the graduates that they will always be part of the Kishwaukee College Pride.
Dr. Borowicz related the students’ current situation of being poised on the edge of an unknown future with her own decision to leave Wisconsin and move to Illinois to become the President of Kishwaukee College a little over a year ago.
“This is what it’s all about - getting your degree, the beginning of your future.  We are so proud to be a part of this step in your educational journey -  whether you are transferring to a university or going into the workforce, we believe you made a great choice by coming here.  I trust you feel the same, and are proud to call yourself an alumnus of Kishwaukee College,” Dr. Borowicz said.
Graduates enjoyed light refreshments after their respective ceremonies, sharing memories with faculty members and family and friends.