Avondale, Ariz. - Estrella Mountain Community College will honor its graduating students on Friday, May 10 at 6:30 p.m. in the EMCC Ceremonial Plaza. The ceremony themed, "Foundation of Knowledge; Lifetime of Empowerment" is the sixth annual and arrives on the heels of the colleges 10-year accreditation status.
A total of 318 associate's degrees and certificates are being awarded. Among the recipients are students of Genesis West, a partnership program that offers students an alternative to traditional high school. Genesis West graduates are able to earn their high school diplomas and associate's degrees concurrently.
Speakers for the evening include: Diane B. McCarthy, president of WESTMARC, Lawrence R. Pesta, Developmental Education faculty and student speaker, Donna Oglesby.
OUTSTANDING GRADUATE SUCCESS STORIES
The following are a few stories to highlight the achievements of graduating EMCC students. To arrange an interview and/or to obtain a photo, call Keisha Truxillo at 623.935.8054.
From Homeless to Endless Possibilities
Taking care of four children as a single-mother is a feat in itself. Add being homeless, and the situation becomes unthinkable. Donna Oglesby faced this difficult situation just two years ago, but has since regained the confidence needed to start over. Donna came to Estrella Mountain in the summer of 2000, were she was able to focus on her studies and quickly became involved in campus clubs and groups. Donna graduates this Friday with an AAS degree in Organizational Leadership and a Microsoft Product Specialist certification. She plans to transfer to Devry Institute of Technology where she will major in business. In the academic year 2001 - 2002, Donna received a total of 11 scholarships, making it possible for her to achieve her goal of a college education. In addition, she was hired in 2001 as a full-time employee of Estrella Mountain.
Genesis West Student Has Strong Future
At age 18 and the parent of a two-year-old child, Tykesha Govan, has a bright future ahead of her. Tykesha is a participant in the Genesis West program, an alternative high school program that allows students to obtain their diplomas by earning both high school and college credit. She receives a high school diploma from home school, Agua Fria, on Friday and plans to pursue a degree in nursing. She is an honor's student and regularly volunteers in the community.