Students celebrate receiving secondary credentials

MOSES LAKE — Students who earned a GED or high school diploma through the transitional studies program at Big Bend Community College were recognized in graduation ceremonies recently.

The ceremony recognized 37 students who received a secondary degree during BBCC’s summer and fall quarters, said BBCC communications coordinator Tiffany Fondren. The program has graduated more than 700 students during the last four years, she said.

Graduation ceremonies are held in June and December, and it’s “typically one of the most positive and emotional events held on campus.” Big Bend officials loan graduation caps and gowns to the participants.

Faviola Barbosa, dean of transitional studies, complimented the graduates for their hard work. “This isn’t your last step. This is a milestone and there is so much more that this opportunity is going to open doors for you to do. Consider college. It’s possible, and want to encourage you and see you go to the next level and continue to grow.”

Christopher Browning, a program instructor, was the keynote speaker.

“A highlight of the evening is an open microphone for high school diploma and GED recipients to tell their stories and thank their families,” Fondren said. Graduate Maria Garcia was one of those speakers, congratulating her fellow graduates and expressing gratitude to the program’s instructors.

“I finally decided to do it this year. I want to thank my teacher Emily (Anderson). If it wasn’t for her supporting me and telling me I did such a good job, I wouldn’t have had that belief in myself. So thank you.”