MSJC graduates record-breaking class of 2,226

MSJC graduates Natalie Alvarez, Bernardo Britto, Zoe Pailes, and Ben Collier are all smiles at Thursday's ceremony.

News release from Mt. San Jacinto College:

Mt. San Jacinto College celebrated a record-breaking 2,226 graduates on Thursday during two graduation ceremonies at Pechanga Resort Casino in Temecula.

MSJC awarded 3,219 degrees and certificates to the most graduates in the college's nearly 60-year history. They earned a total of 2,717 associate degrees and 502 certificates, as some students earn more than one degree, certificate, or a combination. This year's theme was “Eagles: Unstoppable Today, Tomorrow, and Always.”

Jennifer Larimer and her brother Robert Turcotte graduated together. Jennifer, of Hemet, served as student speaker. Despite her struggles with dyslexia and ADHD, she was able to complete her goals at MSJC.

"I wouldn't have made it this far without the unwavering support of my loving husband, my wonderful family, and the abundant support from the MSJC staff who helped me achieve my goals," Jennifer told the MSJC Class of 2022.

Kayla Jones of Banning earned a degree in science while remaining active at MSJC as a member of Umoja and Honors Enrichment. Kayla is pursuing a career in orthodontics. She also served as a Supplemental Instruction (SI) leader. On Thursday, she led her fellow graduates in the "Pledge of Allegiance." She also served as the student speaker at the college's Imani Celebration for graduates on May 13.

"I'm pretty excited," Kayla said after the ceremony. "I feel like I just can't wait to expand in my career."