Kishwaukee College holds Spring 2024 Commencement ceremonies

Kishwaukee College held its Spring 2024 Commencement on Saturday, May 18, in the gymnasium, with 218 students attending ceremonies to commemorate their achievements.

Kish held a 9 am ceremony for 124 students graduating with Associate in Applied Science degrees, Certificates of Completion, Short-Term Training or Illinois High School Diploma credentials, followed by an 11 am ceremony for 94 students graduating with Associate in Arts, Associate in Engineering Science, Associate in Fine Arts, Associate in General Studies and Associate in Science degrees. Overall, 428 students applied to graduate and were eligible to participate in the Spring 2024 Commencement ceremonies.

Perla Gonzales, who graduated with an Associate in Applied Science degree in Registered Nursing, served as the Student Speaker for both ceremonies. Gonzales reminded her fellow graduates to value the support they received from family, friends, faculty and staff to help reach their academic goals.

“Success isn't just about GPA or how many extracurriculars you can cram onto your resume — it's about having the courage to chase your dreams, the resilience to bounce back from failure, and the humility to acknowledge the support of those who helped you along the way,” Gonzales said. “Always remember to pay it forward, spreading kindness and positivity wherever you go.”

Along with Gonzales, students heard remarks from Dr. Laurie Borowicz, President of Kishwaukee College; Bob Johnson, Kishwaukee College Board of Trustees Chair; and Megan Kasigyi, Radiologic Technology Program Director. Kasigyi shared how graduates can successfully transition to their next step by taking on life’s challenges one day at a time.

“Hold onto your unique passions, gifts and talents. As you set new goals, rather than worrying and looking at the seemingly unsurmountable obstacles, take one day, one project, one task at a time. This will help lead you to success,” Kasigyi said.

The ceremonies were livestreamed on Kish’s social media channels and website. To view the ceremonies, visit www.kish.edu/commencement.