WCC will graduate 786 later this week
By Phyllis Moore
Published in News on May 11, 2010 1:46 PM
Two graduation ceremonies will take place at Wayne Community College later this week, including the largest college credit class in its history.
The college set new enrollment records this school year, with 3,722 students in the fall semester -- up from 3,522 the previous semester -- and 3,679 students for the spring term, compared to 3,099 one year ago.
Friday night's commencement will recognize the accomplishments of 566 students receiving 127 certificates, 84 diplomas and 406 associate degrees. Some students are enrolled in dual programs and will receive multiple recognition. Last year's graduating class had 512 members.
The event will be held outdoors, starting at 5:30 p.m. Tickets are not required for admission onto the field.
In the event of rain, the ceremony will be moved into the college's Moffatt Auditorium and will be divided into two sessions -- at 5:30 p.m. for candidates in the business and computer technologies, public safety and arts and sciences programs, and at 7:30 p.m. for candidates in the allied health, public services and applied technologies divisions. For these ceremonies, graduates will be allotted two guest tickets; there will also be an overflow room where a video feed will be shown.
Officials will make the decision by 3 p.m. if there is the threat of inclement weather. The announcement will be posted on the college's website.
Meanwhile, on Thursday, the WCC basic skills program will hold its graduation at 5:30 p.m. in Moffatt Auditorium.
This year's class has 220 students -- 71 receiving adult high school diplomas and 149 earning General Educational Development, or GED, diplomas.
Featured speaker will be Candice Lancaster, a member of the adult high school class.
Tickets will be required for admission. Each graduating student will be allotted tickets for six guests. There will also be an overflow room, where a live video feed of the ceremony will be shown.