The Austin Community College District marked a milestone on Thursday. Nearly 4000 students invited to participate in ACC’s 2024 fall commencement ceremony. The number marks a new record for the district, up 5% from last fall’s graduation.
“I’m so proud to see our students achieving their dreams—it’s the best part of the year for me,” says ACC Chancellor Dr. Russell Lowery-Hart. “Every ceremony, more students are crossing the stage. There’s a lot of work happening behind the scenes to get every student to their finish line — whether that’s transferring to a 4-year university or starting a new career. We’re reimagining ways to support our students from how we schedule our classes to how we support basic needs like housing, child care, and food. That’s the real joy in our work and purpose.”
Among the graduates this semester, the College recognized the following:
30+ new Manufacturing Technicians
46 new Teachers & Educators
249 new Nurses
80 new Firefighters
“It has taken me some years to finally get here as life happens to throw curveballs. It feels amazing to complete all that I’ve worked toward! If you can just keep working at it, it’ll pay off and become something so beneficial to you and a rewarding success that you accomplished on your own and through the help of others,” says Kallie Perez, ACC English Graduate.
Grads who walked the stage have completed an associate degree, bachelor’s degree, workforce certificate, or high school equivalency program.
“It’s the best feeling in the World! (I’m) still not believing that I made it to the finish line after so long. ACC is affordable, location convenience, and classes will work for everyone, including those working full-time and needing evening classes or online courses. No matter how long it takes, get there! The end result is so worth it!” says Cecilia Aleman, ACC Business Office Technology Graduate.
