One day last week I happened to look out my office window and saw a familiar sight for this time of year – a student dressed in full graduation regalia taking pictures with her friends in front of the Tallahassee Community College sign. That day had been a particularly demanding one, but as I witnessed the soon-to-be-graduate’s pride in her achievement and her alma mater all my concerns were momentarily set aside.

She didn’t know it, but she had instantly reminded me of what makes my job so special and why graduation weekend is my favorite time of year. People often ask if I ever get tired of commencement exercises. I could never. It’s when I get the privilege of shaking the hand of our graduates and congratulating them each on a job well done.

At Tallahassee Community College, we stand on the principles of human dignity, individual responsibility and that education should be accessible to everyone regardless of their socioeconomic status. These principles have not changed since they were laid out by our founders 50 years ago. We have always believed in providing opportunities for personal success through higher education pathways, workforce opportunities and civic engagement experiences.

As a member of our class of 2016, this year’s graduates are very special. They will follow in the footsteps of the tens of thousands of TCC graduates who have come before them. Our 50th Anniversary has granted us the opportunity to reconnect with many of these past alumni and we’ve cherished their stories of success and how far they’ve gone because of the foundation they built here. Our graduates are well-positioned thanks to the quality of the education they’ve received from our excellent faculty and the support they’ve had from our dedicated staff.

But graduation is a celebration of the student, not the college. It’s about their growth, their accomplishments and their potential. This is not a last stop, it’s just their first. It’s why we’re here and we are proud to have been part of their journey.

With that I just want to say thank the class of 2016. Thank you for your contributions to this College. Thank you for your presence here. However short or long your time studying at TCC, you left an indelible mark. As your name is called and you receive your diploma know that you have helped solidify this institution so that students just like you will be able to receive the same access to education you enjoyed. Celebrate that legacy just as that young graduate was last week – take pride in your achievements and your alma mater.

Moving forward I hope you know that our doors will always be open to you. Take the opportunity to join the Alumni & Friends Association and stay in touch.

Congratulations and best of luck in all your future endeavors!