STORY AND PHOTO BY JONATHAN SINTORA, STAFF WRITER
On Friday, May 24, Cypress College is hosting its annual Commencement Ceremony, consisting of graduating students from the 2023-24 academic school year.
The ceremony will begin at 4 p.m. with seating available on a first-come-first-served basis. Graduates will be grouped based on their academic pathway followed by a short briefing for students.
In addition to presenting graduates, Cypress College will nominate students and staff for positions of achievement. Presidential Scholars will be honored to nine students who exemplify “What it means to be a Cypress College student.” Alumnus of the Year will highlight the achievements of Cypress College Alumni and their contributions to the community. Outstanding Faculty will recognize staff members who have gone “above and beyond the call of duty.” The “Outstanding Graduate” award will recognize one student who earned a GPA of 3.75 or higher and demonstrated great personal achievement and academic success.
On the day of the ceremony, the Cypress Bookstore will have balloons, flowers, and collegiate gifts available for purchase.
The Cypress Chronicle reached out to students preparing and participating in the commencement ceremony.
Students like Elian Ramirez look forward to a ceremony where their work can be appreciated. Ramirez said, “I’m looking forward to walking with my friends and beginning the next chapter of our education.”
Ramirez, who plans to continue his education at WGU, noted how his time at Cypress College has prepared him for a future in cyber security. Ramirez said, “My experience here at Cypress College has gone really well.”
For many, this year’s commencement ceremony is especially important as many students were unable to participate in previous years due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Graduate Saul Eduardo Conde shared his excitement as he prepared to participate in his first-ever in-person graduation ceremony. Conde, who has attended Cypress College for four years, had several memories to share before the ceremony.
As a Theater major, Conde said, “I suppose everything I’ve learned, it’s been a lot of learning how to do theater, particularly how to participate in the industry.”
Conde continued, “This is my first [in-person] graduation… One thing I hope we get to do is toss our caps!”
Conde concluded, “Whatever school I go to next, I hope it’s like my time at Cypress.”
Ramirez and Conde are just a few students participating in the yearly tradition. As the event draws closer, participants can find more information on the Cypress College website’s Commencement Central.
