WHITPAIN — Gov. Josh Shapiro on Thursday addressed graduates of Montgomery County Community College’s Class of 2024 with praise and admiration as they prepared to receive their diplomas.
He returned to his native Montgomery County to give the commencement address at one of three ceremonies taking place.
“Earning a degree is an impressive accomplishment,” Shapiro said. “It requires dedication, persistence and especially resilience. I know many of you had to balance the demands of your studies with the rest of your responsibilities, whether they be work or family.
“I’m sure there was a moment — maybe even quite a few moments — where giving up would’ve made life easier,” he continued. “But you stuck with it, and you are here today earning this incredibly valuable credential.”
The Class of 2024 had 1,533 graduates receiving 1,613 degrees and certificates from the community college that operates out of Blue Bell and Pottstown campuses, as well as virtually. Business administration, liberal studies and nursing programs made up a majority of graduates.
In addition, 327 students were graduating with an “honor of distinction,” which means they earned at least a 3.25 GPA. This year’s graduation slate included 523 first-generation graduates as well as 30 who are veterans or in active military duty.
Youngest and oldest
Aislinn Curran, 17, was the youngest graduate to receive an associate degree in life sciences, and Debra Sharrah, 68, was the oldest graduating student receiving a medical coding certificate.
“Graduates, you should feel proud and confident knowing you are well prepared to inspire, lead and transform,” said Montgomery County Community College President Victoria Bastecki-Perez.
Bastecki-Perez and Shapiro were among several speakers who delivered remarks directly to the graduates and their loved ones during the afternoon ceremony. Among them included educational leadership and elected officials who touted the reputation the community college has cultivated over the past six decades.
“Every year, you produce leaders who will shape the future of Montgomery County, and the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania,” Shapiro said.
Community Impact
Montgomery County Commissioners’ Chairwoman Jamila Winder agreed, underscoring the impact the college has on the community as a whole. Montgomery County designated more than $24.5 million to the community college as part of the 2024 adopted budget, according to financial documents, with a specific tax rate of .39 mills.
“Let me tell you what an asset we have right here in Montgomery County,” Winder said, stressing that it’s an “investment our taxpayers are willing to make.”
Shapiro spoke favorably about the institution of higher learning, the faculty as well as improvements made to the hospitality, as well as science, technology, engineering, and math programs.
“To the faculty and staff who create that opportunity, and the parents and families who support and nurture those dreams, I want to say thank you, and to the Montgomery County Community College Class of 2024, congratulations. You’ve made it,” Shapiro said.
Diploma is ‘shield’
This diploma would serve as a “shield” and a “tool” for graduates, Shapiro said, as they prepare to start the next chapter of their lives.
“Let your diploma be a shield against the naysayers. The thing that blocks out the noise, silences the doubters and offers a stiff arm to the status quo,” he said. “Let your diploma be that shield, and let it also be a tool you use to forge a brighter future for yourself and the rest of us.”
“Our community needs you to do big things. Pennsylvania needs you to do big things. Our world needs you to do big things,” Shapiro said. “But as you set out to do big things, don’t lose sight of who you are and where you’re going.”
Words of wisdom
Each speaker imparted some words of wisdom to the Class of 2024.
Winder recalled advice she fondly recalled her mother and grandmother telling her: “Have a plan and don’t be deterred by any obstacles.”
Bastecki-Perez encouraged them to “seize every opportunity with courage and excitement,” “be fearless” and “whatever you do, always be your authentic self.”
Shapiro’s recommendation was a little more active as he marveled at the county’s existing open space along the Pennypack and Schuylkill River trails.
“So my advice is take a walk: in your community, in nature, in life,” Shapiro said. “Use the tools you’ve been given, especially the diploma you’re about to receive, to blaze a unique path in this world.
“I firmly believe that everyone deserves the freedom to chart your own course and the opportunity to succeed,” he continued. “To me, that means that you’re the only one who gets to choose where life takes you.”
