On May 24, Gavilan College broke previous records and graduated its all-time largest class, earning the highest-ever number of associate’s degrees and certificates, according to spokeswoman Jan Bernstein Chargin.
Approximately 582 students were awarded 880 degrees and certificates, including new degrees, such as the Associate’s Degree for Transfer. With so many graduates in attendance, each was limited to four tickets for guests, and no extra tickets were available. Keynote speaker Karen Beppler-Dorn, the Park Superintendent for Pinnacles National Park, shared “ranger wisdom” with the graduates, including some tips on positive thinking, and getting along with others.
This was the first year the new Associate Degrees for Transfer, which provide guaranteed transfer to California State University with upper division standing in the degree field, were awarded. Gavilan College now offers nine options for the degree, with more under development. Of the 55 awarded, 33 were in Administration of Justice, 19 were in Communication Studies, two in Kinesiology and one in Mathematics.
By the numbers:
• 584 – number of graduates
• 880 – number of degrees and certificates conferred (many individuals received more than one)
• 307 – Associate of Arts degrees
• 156 – Associate of Science degrees
• 412 – Certificates awarded
• 12 – number of graduates who graduated from the Dr. T.J. Owens Gilroy Early College Academy (GECA) the same week
• 55 – Associates Degrees for Transfer
Most popular awards:
• Certificate of Achievement in California State University General Education (120)
• Certificate of Achievement in Intersegmental General Education Transfer Curriculum (UC) (87)
• Associate of Science in Health Science (67)
• Associate in Arts in Liberal Arts – Multiple Subjects (59)
• Associate in Arts in Business – General Business option (39)
• Associate in Arts in Liberal Arts – Behavioral and Organizational Social Science option (35)
• Associate of Science in Administration of Justice (31)
• Associate in Arts in Communication Studies (29)
Gavilan College cultivates learning and personal growth in students of all backgrounds and abilities through innovative practices in both traditional and emerging learning environments; transfer pathways, career and technical education, developmental education, and support services prepare students for success in a dynamic and multicultural world.
