HCC salutes the Class of 2016 at Commencement Ceremony at NRG Stadium
May 14, 2016
“I made a promise to my mom before she passed away that I would finish my degree and that is why I am here,” said Kelly James, who kept his promise and became one of the 2,650 graduates who participated in the 2016 Houston Community College (HCC) Commencement Ceremony.
Just like James, the journey to this proud moment was filled with obstacles for Joanna Rivas-Nino, who had to be separated from her husband and family while she attended HCC.
“It has been difficult because I am very attached to them,” she said. “It has been difficult to be here by myself but everything has a cost.”
Help was the dominant message of the address Dr. Cesar Maldonado, HCC chancellor delivered to the crowd of about 19,000 family members and guests at NRG Stadium.
“Whether you are a first time graduate or coming back for another degree, if you focus on helping people you are going to have a great career and a great life,” he said.
Chancellor Maldonado’s message was inspired by his own graduation and the experience of seeing his own daughter graduate. For him, each commencement ceremony is unique and uplifting.
“It doesn’t matter how many of these I attend, my message is one of success and hope, dreams and helping others. It is all about people,” said Dr. Maldonado.
Additional words of encouragement came from Houston Texans President Jamey Rootes, who served as keynote speaker.
“Welcome to my house,” Rootes told the excited crowd. “All of you have demonstrated the will to prepare to win in the most important game of all, the game of life. You learn so much in school and now it is time to go out and play it.”
Graduates also heard from the Honorable Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee, representing the 18th District of Texas. A champion for education and for HCC, she pointed out that no matter where we come from, we all succeed together.
She stated, “I don’t know the trials and tribulations that you have overcome, but I know that you have gone across the bridge and no one can turn you around.”
In her comments, HCC Board of Trustees Chair Dr. Adriana Tamez thanked the graduates’ families for their support and praised the graduates for achieving a milestone.
“Without your family and friends this day would not be possible. What you are accomplishing is to be admired—it shows you are up for any challenge so don’t let your dreams go by the wayside,” she said. “You have the world at your fingertips, so take hold of it. I want you to be part of the future of this city and country and do all you can to make it a better place.” said Dr. Tamez.
Robert Glaser, HCC Board of Trustees vice chair, presented Honorary Degrees to four individuals for their contributions to the Greater Houston Area. They are Ponnu Pillai, Jesse A. Rodriguez, Gracie Saenz, and Linda Toyota.
To see the video and photos of the HCC 2016 Commencement Ceremony, please visit hccs.edu/graduation