Graduation celebrations for recent St. Petersburg College graduates looked a little different this year, but the milestone that so many of our students achieved was no less memorable or important.
Due to the COVID-19 outbreak, the college opted to hold socially-distanced celebrations on Saturday, Oct. 10, one in the morning at the Clearwater Campus and another later in the day at St. Petersburg/Gibbs Campus. Both celebrations gave students the opportunity to walk across the stage, stand proudly with SPC President Dr. Tonjua Williams and other members of SPC leadership while holding their degree, and, of course, get cheered on by their loved ones.
“Saturday was amazing and meant a great deal to our students,” said Dr. Williams.
Many students and guests expressed their gratitude to college staff and event volunteers, as it was unclear if the college was going to able to safely plan an event that properly celebrated graduates while also keeping everyone safe during the pandemic.
Despite the mandatory face masks everyone had to wear, graduates, guests, and employees all stayed in good spirits throughout the celebrations, with much laughter, cheering, and congratulatory elbow bumps. Dr. Williams was also spotted taking some of her signature selfies with graduates. All in all, it was a happy day that showcased the Titan Strong spirit that Dr. Williams frequently talks about.
“I’ve received emails of gratitude from students because many who attended were the first in their family to earn a college degree. Walking across the stage was very meaningful to them and their families,” said Dr. Williams.
The Fall 2020 Commencement Ceremony in December will also be another new graduation experience for SPC and be entirely virtual. It will feature video speeches from college leadership as well as the traditional calling of graduate names.
Graduating students who want to be recognized and have their name announced during the ceremony must register online by Friday, Nov. 6.
For more details on Fall 2020 graduation, please visit spcollege.edu/graduation.