MCC Celebrated its 48th Commencement on May 31
Manchester Community College Held the 48th Annual Commencement on May 31, 2012
Manchester, Connecticut -(May 29, 2012)…More than 900 degrees and certificates were awarded at Manchester Community College’s 48th annual commencement ceremony on Thursday, May 31. Graduates from 70 towns across Connecticut and five other states were awarded associate in science degrees, associate in art degrees and certificates. The youngest graduate was 16 years old and the oldest was 70.
Daniel H. Bates, a Newington resident was the 2012 valedictorian earning an associate in science degree in Engineering Science. While at MCC, Daniel successfully completed 98 credits of coursework, earning an “A” in each of his courses. In his remarks Daniel Bates stated, ”The professors at Manchester are great teachers and dedicated to their students. They are easy to talk to and it’s motivating to know they care about students’ success. I’m grateful for the experiences I had in the classroom at Manchester and the professors, deans and entire faculty deserve our sincere thanks on this occasion.” Bates, who completed his degree in December, was rock climbing in Kazakhstan at the time of the ceremony. His valedictory speech was read by Dean Joanne Russell.
The salutatorian was Kevin M. MacVane, a resident of Manchester, who was awarded an associate in science degree in general studies. Kevin enrolled in classes at MCC in 2010 and, earned an “A” in every course. He is transferring to Eastern Connecticut State University this fall.
Lewis J. Robinson, Jr. gave the commencement address to the graduates. He is a seasoned attorney with a comprehensive background in business, law and government affairs, as well as charitable organizations. He retired as General Counsel of Travelers Property Casualty, Personal Lines and has served in a volunteer leadership capacity with a variety of non-profit organizations. Most recently he was appointed by Governor Malloy to serve as Chairman of the Connecticut Board of Regents for Higher Education.
In his remarks, Robinson stated, “Planning, working hard, being responsible, kind and respectful, valuing education: all of these attributes are essential for success, but perhaps the most important one is integrity.”
The Regional Advisory Council Award was presented to Shae Ming Sau, a resident of Windsor. This award is given to a student in recognition of service to the college.
Jackie Dannaher, a resident of West Hartford, was the recipient of the President’s Student Award, which recognizes a student who has demonstrated unusual perseverance in spite of difficulties, obstacles or challenges.
The honorary degree recipient was Timothy J. Devanney, President of Highland Park
Market. He has demonstrated a commitment and dedication to Manchester Community College and currently serves as a member of the college’s Regional Advisory Council.
Posthumous recognition was given to Thomas P. Sheridan, Esq.’ 73, of Glastonbury, who embodied the vision of a community college graduate. He was a decorated Vietnam veteran, attorney and clerk of the Connecticut State Senate. He served as a long time member of the Manchester Community College’s Regional Advisory Committee and was a valuable adviser to the presidents of MCC.
Students of any age who possess the desire to pursue higher education are welcome at Manchester Community College. MCC is proud of its academic excellence, new facilities, flexible schedules, small classes, low tuition and faculty with both academic and “real world” credentials. The college offers over 60 programs, transfer options, financial aid and scholarships, as well as access to baccalaureate degrees through guaranteed admissions programs with several universities. MCC is situated on a park like campus and is easily accessible from I-84.
