MESA, Arizona – June 2, 2020 -- Mesa Community College (MCC) recognizes the accomplishments of 2,645 students who collectively earned more than 4,689 degrees and certificates during the 2019-2020 academic year.
A commencement ceremony is being planned for December; however, degrees and certificates earned will be mailed to graduates as soon as they are processed and verified.
MCC confers associate's degrees and certificates of completion. The largest number of associate's degrees being bestowed this year are in Networking System Administration, Business, Fashion Merchandising and Design, Caterpillar Technology Training and Computer Information Systems.
The top certificates of completion are from the Emergency Medical Technician, Firefighter Operations, Police Science, Nursing Assisting, Welding and Real Estate programs.
MCC Interim President Dr. Lori Berquam recognizes the new MCC graduates in a congratulatory video. (https://youtu.be/etUtFyYcTJI) “I am thrilled to congratulate all of our graduates. You’ve worked hard for this achievement. We are proud of all that you have done, and we know that you will take your education from here and put it to good use,” Berquam said. “Wherever you go, remember, you are always a Thunderbird. You are always welcome here at MCC.”
MCC alumnus and former professional baseball player Shea Hillenbrand was scheduled to address students as the keynote speaker during our traditional May ceremony. Although the graduation event could not be held in person, Hillenbrand shares key life lessons in a video to MCC Thunderbird graduates. (https://youtu.be/gnPz1kHFoMg) “Whatever industry you go into, whatever profession you choose…understand your identity,” Hillenbrand said. “When you do that you can stand on the fullest version of yourself and live a life of fulfillment. With that being said, congratulations again guys. Great job.”
Graduates and their friends and family are encouraged to share their achievements and future goals on social media using #mesacc2020grad for possible inclusion in the college’s website tribute. These stories are being collected currently and are being shared on the MCC graduation webpage (mesacc.edu/graduation).
Elizabeth Ward, executive vice president of the Associated Students of Mesa Community College (ASMCC), also congratulates the student body in a video. (https://youtu.be/cShBSqew6XI) “You have all worked so hard to accomplish what you have achieved here today. Even in uncertain times, you have remained focused and determined, and have never given up,” Ward said. “I am so honored to have served you guys in this role, getting to know each and every one of you throughout this year. You did it. We did it.”
2019-20 Preliminary Graduation Statistics
Number of individuals earning a degree or industry certificate, for the summer, fall and spring semesters: 2,645.
AAS -- Associate in Applied Science degrees: 580
AA -- Associate in Arts degree: 1,074
AAEE -- Associate in Arts, Elementary Education degree: 45
AA, FA - Dance -- Associate in Arts, Fine Arts - Dance degree: 1
AA, FA- Arts -- Associate in Arts, Fine Arts - Arts degree: 14
AA, FA - Theatre -- Associate in Arts, Fine Arts - Theatre degree: 6
AB-GR -- Associate in Business - General Requirements degrees: 174
AB-SR-- Associate in Business-Special Requirements degrees: 23
AGEC- Arizona General Education Curriculum - Arts certificates: 1,153
AGEC- Arizona General Education Curriculum - Business certificates: 196
AGEC- Arizona General Education Curriculum - Science certificates: 212
AGS - Associate in General Studies degree: 140
AS- Associate in Science degree: 216
CCL- Certificate of Completion: 820
AC - Academic Certificates: 22
AAS - Nursing - 199
AAS - Emergency Response and Operations - 28
Each Mesa Community College student has a unique story to tell about the journey to graduation day. A few stories from the college’s diverse student body are shared online to help inspire others to pursue or persist in obtaining a college education. (https://www.mesacc.edu/graduation/graduation-success-stories/spring-2020-stories)
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Media contact: Dawn Zimmer, dawn.zimmer@mesacc.edu or 480-461-7892
Mesa Community College is nationally recognized as an Aspen Prize Top 150 U.S. Community College and is known for service learning, career and technical programs, civic engagement and innovative approaches to education. The college has served as a resource for career readiness, transfer education, workforce development and lifelong learning throughout its 50-year history. Host to more than 30,000 students annually, MCC offers degree and certificate programs online, and at its two campuses and additional locations. Through Guided Pathways with Integrated Support Services, MCC is transforming the ways it champions student success, college completion, university transfer and career attainment or advancement. MCC is a Hispanic Serving Institution and more than 50% of its students are the first in their family to attend college. Its American Indian Institute serves 22 federally recognized Arizona tribes and more than 30 out-of-state tribes. The diverse student body includes more than 400 international students representing over 60 countries. Award-winning faculty are dedicated to student success, providing the education and training that empowers MCC students to successfully compete in the workforce. Located in the East Valley of Phoenix, Arizona, MCC is one of 10 colleges in the Maricopa County Community College District. Visitmesacc.edu to learn more.
Mesa Community College is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC).
The Maricopa County Community College District (MCCCD) is an EEO/AA institution and an equal opportunity employer of protected veterans and individuals with disabilities. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, or national origin. A lack of English language skills will not be a barrier to admission and participation in the career and technical education programs of the District. MCCCD does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, disability or age in its programs or activities. For Title IX/504 concerns, call the following number to reach the appointed coordinator: (480) 731-8499. For additional information, as well as a listing of all coordinators within the Maricopa College system, visit www.maricopa.edu/non-discrimination.