SFSC Celebrates Fall 2024 Commencement
For the SFSC graduates who gathered in the Alan Jay Wildstein Theatre for the Performing Arts on Thursday, Dec. 12, the 2024 Commencement ceremony was a time to celebrate.
Student Commencement speaker Christopher Peragine, who received his Associate in Arts, congratulated his fellow classmates on persevering through their studies to graduation. He offered advice from lessons learned through his own life and college experience: “Success is not about trophies, awards, or applause. It’s about lifting others up. It’s about being an example – just like my mentor was for me. It’s about showing others that no matter how many times you get knocked down, you can always rise. I stand here today with humility because I didn’t get here alone. I got here by the grace of God, with the support of friends, clients, my family, my team, and by falling on my face in the mud more times than I can count. Class of 2024, I’m so proud of you. You’ve got the heart, the strength, the faith, and the determination to take on anything that life throws your way.”
Approximately 308 students met the SFSC requirements by fall Commencement. Of these, 14 received their Bachelor of Science in Supervision and Management (BAS-SM), six received their Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN), 90 received their Associate in Arts, 69 received their Associate in Science, 33 received their State of Florida High School Diploma, 24 received their College Credit Certificate (CCC), and 72 received Career Technical Certificates. The number of students participating in the Commencement ceremony totaled 149.
Early in the program, the graduates received congratulations and words of wisdom from Fred Hawkins, SFSC president. “As you plan your next goals and timelines for where you want to go in your career, I want to remind you of a quote from former Supreme Court Justice Sandra Day O’Connor: ‘Aim high, but be aware that even before you have reached your ultimate professional destination, if you always strive for excellence, you can and should make a substantial impact on the world in which you live.’”
Speaking on behalf of the SFSC District Board of Trustees, Chair Terry Atchley, addressed the new graduates: “As you step into the future, embrace uncertainty with courage, and let your dreams soar. Remember that your education is not merely a degree or certificate, but a compass guiding you toward a purposeful life. And remember that SFSC is forever your home. As you graduate and start out in your career or continue to grow in your current career, stay in touch with the College and your fellow graduates.”
During the ceremony, President Hawkins also acknowledged the upcoming retirements of Teresa Crawford, director of the Hardee Campus; Beth Broen, History professor; and Katrina Blandin, Hardee Campus student advisor.
Mace bearer and chief marshal for Commencement was Mlisa Manning, and marshals were Kelly Fairfield Dec, Courtney Green, Robert Hampton, Candy Jones, Garrett Lee, Michelle Macbeth, Sofia Ochoa, Ricardo Pantoja, Michael Pate, Lena Phelps, Andrew Polk, and Megan Togno.
