McHenry County College celebrates 2023 graduates during winter commencement

McHenry County College recognized 784 graduates at its winter commencement ceremony on Saturday, Dec. 9 in the college gymnasium.

Of this group of graduates, 108 earned honors or high honors with a GPA of 3.50 or greater.

The students represented 68 different programs, with Associate in Arts, Basic Nursing Assistant Certificate, Associate in Science, Emergency Technician Certificate, and Firefighter Basic Certificate programs producing the most graduates.

“I hope each one of our students pauses to reflect on their achievements and recognizes themselves for a job well done,” said MCC President Dr. Clint Gabbard. “These students are now part of an ever-growing group of people who have had the drive, courage, and wisdom to attend and find success through a community college. With their accomplishments, we know they have what it takes to go out and make a difference in our community and our world.”

The ceremony included an academic procession of graduates, remarks from Dr. Gabbard, a student presentation by Kathleen Escobar (Class of 2023), an overview of honors designations, and presentation of degrees and certificates.

“People who have been a part of a strong community like MCC become far more capable of building a strong community,” said Escobar to students in her commencement address. “This is how I see every one of us: a strong individual capable of building our own spaces for community, for connection, and for family. Not only has our time here taught us to appreciate these lessons, but also to share them. Beyond this knowledge, we have also gained a determination that will help us create compassionate and educated communities that we all want to live in.”

In the week leading up to the commencement ceremony, all soon-to-be MCC graduates were encouraged to participate in a variety of activities including e-portfolio assistance, Alumni Association signups, and fun photo sessions.