Arizona Western College announced on May 5 that it will award more than 3,200 degrees and occupational certificates at its upcoming spring commencement, marking the highest number in the college’s history. The ceremony is scheduled for Friday, May 15, at Veterans Memorial Stadium and will include graduates from across Yuma and La Paz counties.
The increase in awarded credentials highlights a growing emphasis on higher education in the region. Dr. Daniel Corr, Arizona Western College President, said, “This milestone reflects the growing momentum of college-going culture in our region and the life-changing opportunities our students are pursuing. Each credential represents a step forward not only for our graduates, but for the strength and future of our community.”
Graduates will include local high school students earning Associate of Arts degrees through the Dual Credit program as well as many who are receiving multiple certificates or degrees. The event is open to the public and will be livestreamed on AWC TV at azwestern.edu/live.
Jeff Kleinwachter has been selected as this year’s Student Commencement Speaker. Kleinwachter said, “Commencement is more than a ceremony, it’s a celebration of perseverance, growth, and the hard work we’ve all put in to reach this moment. As graduates, including those of us who have served in the military, we’ve taken unique and often challenging paths to get here. We invite our community to come out and be part of recognizing these achievements and the journeys behind them.”
Other student speakers from university partners participating in commencement include Jocelyn Andrade (Arizona State University), Sugehis Stoddard (Northern Arizona University-Yuma), and Josett Clark (University of Arizona-Yuma). Biographies for each speaker highlight their academic achievements as well as their commitment to service within their communities.
The college encourages those interested in further details or updates about this year’s commencement activities to visit azwestern.edu/commencement.
