SAN ANGELO, Texas — A new set of graduates walked the stage Dec. 14 in San Angelo, ready to continue their education and/or enter the workforce.
Howard College celebrated its class of 2023 with its 52nd annual fall commencement ceremony located at Foster Communications Coliseum, 50 E. 43 St.
The ceremony began with a processional followed by a performance of the National Anthem and an invocational prayer read by Phi Theta Kappa vice president Cassandra Ratcliffe.
Provost Pam Callen welcomed graduates along with their supporters in the audience, saying, "The journey to this day has not been easy. There have been many classroom and long studying hours, not to mention those pressing tests. Nevertheless, these students have persevered and succeeded."
Callen took the time to thank family, friends, faculty and staff members who might have supported the graduates throughout their education.
From here, many of the graduating class will go on to work in police, fire department, cosmetology and other professions.
"The students we are recognizing today have shown their dedication to learning," Callen said. "These students are now graduates and they have completed this part of their journey."
Approximately 168 San Angelo candidates walked the stage, 128 of those receiving associate's degrees and 42 earning certificates with one obtaining dual credit.
Additionally, some 151 graduates were honored for continuing education with 29 adult education and literacy graduates.
Following Callen's speech, college president Dr. Cheryl Sparks took to the stage to honor current graduates.
"This is a joyful night as you are accomplishing something that's very special," she said to the class.
Sparks also mentioned two students who died in 2023, noting not everyone is going to experience happiness during "the season of joy."
Following her remarks, Sparks welcomed graduates to the stage as each student accepted their respectful diploma or certificate.
The crowd cheered as names were called one by one, honoring all students in this season of joy.
