QCC Graduates Reach Record Number in 2016

Many of the speakers at the 2016 Quinsigamond Community College commencement compared college to a journey, one that has only just begun for graduates.

President Gail Carberry compared college to a long car trip, with students who have been sitting in the backseat asking, “are we there yet?”

“Today is only a brief stop on your journey, but now you are behind the wheel, you get to make the choices,” she said.

On May 19, at the DCU Center in downtown Worcester, QCC celebrated the commencement of its largest class with 1,429 graduates.

“Each QCC graduate is unique, but what you have in common is the demonstrated courage, perseverance and willingness to go the distance. Those personal attributes will serve you well in the years ahead,” Dr. Carberry said.

Dr. Carberry said the theme of the event was The QuEST Continues, celebrating the opening of the QuEST Center on campus, which has new high-tech facilities for STEM careers and training.

Speaker Sheila M. Harrity, superintendent-director of the Montachusett Regional Vocational Technical School District, said she was amazed at what the college has done for its students and the city, with expansions in downtown Worcester, with the Healthcare and Workforce Development Center, and on campus, with the QuEST Center. She also mentioned the planned expansion in Southbridge for manufacturing and training, which will increase access to more people outside of Worcester.

“Being part of the 30K Commitment, QCC has made a commitment to making the college dream an affordable reality for many,” she said. “The college has increased opportunities for veterans and non-traditional students.”

“QCC has never been satisfied with the status quo,” Dr. Harrity said. “They are expanding and maintaining cutting-edge college, career and technical programs.”

Student Speakers

More to come soon!

QCC graduate Kayla Paterson, who was chosen as the 29 Who Shine student from QCC, spoke about her experience at the college.

“We are no longer the same people that started at QCC,” she said. “I can guarantee you that we are each a much stronger, wiser version of ourselves.”

Ms. Paterson was the president of the PTK Honor Society for 2015-16, and was selected as a Woman of Distinction and named in Who’s Who in Junior College students.

“Each of us has our own special journey that has brought us here,” she said. “Think of all the things you’ve learned and the ways you’ve grown.”

She said in less than five years, 65% of all new jobs will require a post-secondary education, which she and her fellow graduates have accomplished.

“Be proud of yourself, this is our moment, you are taking a giant step into the next part of your life,” she said. “Each of us is ready to tackle whatever life throws at us next.”

Ms. Paterson will be attending Anna Maria College in the fall on a full scholarship, to continue her studies in Early Childhood Education.

Before the graduates were handed their diplomas, two awards were presented by the college. Stacey duBoise Luster, chairperson of the Board of Trustees, was presented with the Trustees Citizen’s Award for her dedication to the college. Frederick Eppinger, President and CEO of The Hanover Insurance Group was given the Distinguished Donor Award.