MCC Graduates 864 at 49th Annual Commencement Ceremony
Manchester, CT – (May 30, 2013) … Nine hundred and twelve degrees and certificates were awarded to 864 graduates at Manchester Community College’s 49th annual commencement ceremony held on Thursday, May 30. Graduates from 83 towns across Connecticut and ten other states were awarded associate in science degrees, associate in art degrees, and certificates. The youngest graduate was 18 years old and the oldest was 67.
Nathalie A. Inho, a Newington resident, was the 2013 valedictorian earning an associate in science degree in Marketing. Inho’s educational journey started 25 years after graduating high school. She always had a goal of achieving a college degree so when her youngest daughter enrolled in college, she did to. In her remarks Inho stated, “These are uncertain times; stepping out into the world on a new journey can create a certain level of anxiety. I want to remind you that we all possess within us the ingredients to achieve success, the recipe however, the recipe is up to you”. While studying at MCC, Inho started her own small business, Krutch Pack, which was inspired by a Marketing class project in which they had to develop a product that did not yet exist in the marketplace.
The salutatorian was Paul Golden, a resident of Hebron, who was awarded an associate in science degree in Business Administration.
Dr. Henry C. Lee, one of the world’s foremost forensic scientists, delivered the commencement address. Dr. Lee’s work has made him a landmark in modern-day criminal investigations. He has been a prominent player in many of the most challenging cases of the last 50 years. Dr. Lee has worked with law enforcement agencies in helping to solve more than 8000 cases. In recent years, his travels have taken him to England, Bosnia, Canada, China, Brunei, Bermuda, Germany, Singapore, Thailand, Middle East, South America and other locations around the world.
Lee encouraged graduates to “dream big.” He stated, “We gain knowledge through education. Education is the foundation for success. From science to art, from engineer to finance, from criminal justice to forensic, in whatever field of endeavor you choose, you must have appropriate education. Manchester has provided you with an excellent and a strong foundation for creating your magic.”
William H. W. Crawford, IV of Hartford, received the honorary degree of associate in humane letters, honoris causa. Crawford is President and Chief Executive Officer, Rockville Financial, Inc. Crawford has served two consecutive years as Honorary Chairman for both the Manchester Community College Foundation premier fundraiser, Evening of Fine Wines, and the Channel 3 Kids Camp premier fundraiser, Celebrity Golf Tournament.
The Regional Advisory Council’s Community Service Award was presented to Sharlene A. Roby, of Manchester, for her service to the College. Roby was awarded an associate in science degree in general studies.
Patrick J. Montes of Newington is the recipient of the President’s Student Award. This award recognizes a student who has demonstrated unusual perseverance in spite of difficulties, obstacles or challenges. Montes was awarded an associate in science degree in liberal arts and science.
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. It is the home of Great Path Academy, a middle college high school, serving grades 9-12. MCC is situated on a park-like campus and is easily accessible from I-84.
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