CCV sent graduates across the stage for first in-person graduation since 2019
The Community College of Vermont sent more than 450 students across the stage this weekend to get their degrees. The ceremony was held at Norwich University on Saturday.
“I’m excited, but I’m also nervous at the same time,” John Clark, 2022 CCV Graduate said. “But I’m very proud of myself for making it this far, I didn’t really think I could do it.”
Faculty and staff from CCV were delighted to see students graduate in person for the first time since 2019, overcoming the adversity being thrown their way over the more than two years.
“We talk about it as a two-year degree, but a lot of people work on it for much, much longer than that,” Erin Wetherell, CCV Advisor said. “And they’re balancing work, and family, and many other life challenges. And so, they’ve done it. They’ve persevered and gotten through that.”
“It doesn’t feel like I’m graduating,” Liz O’Connell, 2022 CCV Graduate said. “I’ve been at this for six years. Because I had to work full time and whatnot. But it feels cool to be here.”
Students said the time spent on their degree was well worth it.
“There’s so much value in the amount of time that you go there,” Chelsea Kellogg, 2022 CCV Graduate said. “You only go for a couple of years, but the amount you can learn in that amount of time is incredible.”
The pride of the graduates and their families was felt throughout the building.
“I never graduated high school, I got my GED later in life and so this is my first graduation ever so it’s very exciting, I’m very proud,” Kellogg said. “And I feel like having children, it was a great example for them to see that it doesn’t matter how old you are or what might have gotten in the way, anyone can do it.”
“This is an exciting day. A day that I hope you all cherish for the rest of your lives,” Kirsten Kersey, 2022 CCV Graduate and student speaker said addressing the audience remotely.
Gov. Phil Scott addressed the graduates.
“Congratulations to the class of 2022. You have so much to be proud of,” Scott said. “Whatever degree you’re receiving today, I hope you’ll use it right here in Vermont.”
“It really marks the beginning of the journey for some students, but kind of the end of the journey for other students who may be the first in their family to go to college,” Wetherell said. “Who weren’t sure they could do this.”
“This is for you, and all of this is for us,” Dr. Wanda Heading-Grant, Keynote Speaker said. “Congratulations.”