Roxbury Community College (RCC) celebrated the incredible accomplishments of the Class of 2024 throughout the 48th Annual Commencement Ceremony on Friday, May 17, 2024. Throughout the ceremony, speakers lauded the Class of 2024, comprising over 160 graduates, for their perseverance, resiliency, and dedication.
Keynote Speaker Latoyia Edwards praised the Class of 2024, highlighting the non-traditional path to success of so many graduates: “To me, the phrase non-traditional is a badge of honor,” said Edwards. “Especially if you are a Roxbury Community College graduate. You were unafraid to take road that may be a little more winding and twisting, and the proof of your greatness is the fact that you are sitting here today, ready to claim your diploma.”
Interim President Jackie Jenkins-Scott, RCC Board of Trustees Chairman Steve Tompkins, and RCC Foundation Board Chair Rev. Ray Hammond also spoke and congratulated the graduates on their persistence.
James Anderson, SGA President, Class of 2024 graduate, Boston EMT, and father of five, highlighted the importance of serving as a role model to his children. He shared that he ultimately decided to enroll at RCC because he was challenged to do by his 18 year-old daughter Alana, who promised him they would pursue their studies together. “Today, I celebrate not only my own graduation,” said Anderson. “Next week, I’ll be cheering on Alana as she graduates from Madison Park High School with a high school diploma and an associate degree in criminal justice.”
The 2024 Commencement Ceremony also included an awards presentation recognizing individuals who have supported the College and the Greater Roxbury Community for years. Reverend Liz Walker received the Lifetime Achievement Award. Artist Roberto Chao received the Alumni Achievement Award. And Shaumba-Yandje Wa Dibinga received the Community Service Award.
“Do what makes you happy from depths of your soul,” said Dibinga. “Don’t forget that people will remember how you made them feel and never forget that this community will always be your community. Give yourself some grace. Keep your head high. Bow down to no one. Spread more love and DO YOU.”
The commencement ceremony ended with special recognition for RCC’s interim leadership team. Interim President Jackie Jenkins-Scott, Executive Vice President of Academic & Student Affairs Joyce Taylor Gibson, and Executive Vice President & Special Assistant to the President Marta Rosa were presented with the RCC Leadership Award for their outstanding service to RCC.
Watch the Commencement Ceremony on YouTube
View photos of Commencement on Facebook
