College of the Canyons held a commencement ceremony for the 2018 graduating class and looked back at a year of challenges, commitment and achievements.

Over 2,000 graduates filled up the honor grove at the Valencia College of the Canyons campus Friday morning to receive their diplomas – the largest graduating class in the college’s history.

Tien Phan, outgoing president of the Associated Student Government, led the audience in the pledge of allegiance followed by the Star Spangled Banner, sung by Cassandra Duschane, Sara Lopez, and Hannah Shenberger.

Dr. Michael Wilding opened the event with introductions and recognized students who made mentionable achievements this school year.

Just over 50 students that walked the stage were recognized as valedictorians, with a GPA over 4.0. Nearly 600 graduated as honors students.

Dr. Dianne G. Van Hook, chancellor of College of the Canyons, addressed the graduates and audience welcoming those who attended and spoke about the class of 2018’s accolades and achievements.

“You’ve brought home awards in the future business leaders of america against four year college competitors, said Van Hook, “You’ve claimed 5 conference titles as student athletes…and that’s the tip of the iceberg. You’ve left your fingerprints all over this campus and in our community and set new standards for people to try to meet.

Dr. Van Hook quoted Gandhi in her closing remarks about the graduating class, reminding them to make a difference in the future.

“You bring life to the words of Gandhi when he challenged others to be the change you want to see in this world”, said Van Hook, “You, the graduating class of 2018, are that change.”

Dr. Herry L. Buckley, assistant superintendent and vice president of academic affairs, introduced Valedictorian Student Speaker, Yvette De La Vega to the audience.

De La Vega, one of the 50 valedictorians for the 2018 graduating class, stepped up to the podium and spoke to the crowd about being adventurous.

“Step outside your bubble and comfort zone and experience other cultures by traveling” said De La Vega, “Don’t rely on your GPS sometimes. Even if you get lost, you might just find a treasure off the beaten path or, even better, you might just find yourself.”

Following the commencement speeches Steven Zimmer, president of the college’s Board of Trustees, approached the podium to confer students degrees before the audience.

The College of the Canyons graduating class of 2018 were called up one by one by administrators to receive their diplomas on stage. Graduates held their diplomas and posed for pictures with Chancellor Dr. Van Hook and Zimmer before they ascended to receive their diplomas.

The Honor Grove echoed with cheer as parents, friends and family members applauded the students as they left the ceremony.

To see more pictures from the graduation, view the gallery below:

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