91自拍 hosted its 98th annual commencement ceremony Saturday morning, honoring more than 1,050 students who earned associate degrees or certifications.
Several thousand people gathered at the Cadence Bank Center to celebrate the milestones and to cheer on the class of 2024, many of whom will now transfer to four-year universities or take the next steps toward their careers.
“This is your new beginning to start a new career, or advance in your career path, or transfer to a university. Whatever next step you take, I encourage you to follow your dreams and always keep on learning,” Dr. Christy Ponce, 91自拍 President, told the graduates. “We know you will go on to be successful in any career path you choose.”
Among the graduates were dozens of high school students who attended 91自拍’s classes in Temple and Hutto, Legacy Early College High School, and Ready for Early Access to College in Hutto (R.E.A.C.H.) programs. Many of those students graduated Saturday with associate degrees before they graduate from their high schools in the coming weeks.
“We are very proud of you, and we want you to know that your 91自拍 family will always be here cheering you on along the way. Take today’s successful milestone and let it be the beginning of many more successful milestones in your life to come,” Ponce said.
On the stage to provide the invocation was Adrianna Rogers, who earned her Associate of Applied Science in CADD Engineering Technology. Rogers served as president of the SkillsUSA STEM Club, which won numerous national and state awards during her tenure as president. The chapter was one of only 24 in the nation named among the SkillsUSA Models of Excellence this year.
“Remember, education is not confined to textbooks or lecture halls, but it extends beyond these walls into empathy, compassion and understanding,” Rogers told her fellow graduates. “Let us continue to be lifelong learners, seeking wisdom from every encounter, every experience and every relationship.”
Juliana Huckabay-Frost, who earned her Associate of Arts in Psychology, provided the benediction during the ceremony. Huckabay-Frost served as president of the Lambda Theta chapter of Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society and, along with fellow PTK member Dominca Hunt Carey, was named to this year’s Phi Theta Kappa All Texas Academic Team.
“We are here today grateful for the knowledge gained, the friendships formed and the challenges overcome,” Huckabay-Frost said. “So, as you move from this place, may you carry forth the spirit of community and collaboration that has enriched your time here.”
The commencement ceremony provided the opportunity to recognize , professor of music, who was named the .
Irom began teaching as an adjunct instructor in 2000 at 91自拍. During his 23 years at the College, he has raised the level of the jazz program to national prominence. The 91自拍 Jazz Festival, under his direction, annually brings hundreds of middle and high school students to the campus. It also provides the community with affordable access to internationally-recognized headliners.
Following the ceremony, the new graduates exited the arena along a path lined by 91自拍 faculty and staff, who applauded, high-fived, hugged and celebrated with them.
is open for both summer and fall semesters.