NMCC Celebrates 59th Commencement Ceremony

On a day marked by achievement and celebration, Northern Maine Community College (NMCC) proudly honored its 59th graduating class at its ceremony held at the Presque Isle Forum. The event began at 10 am on Saturday, May 11, 2024, commemorating the academic accomplishments of 178 graduates from NMCC’s diverse academic programs and 311 students from workforce training programs.

The event opened with an invocation delivered by Reverend Bud Fancy of the Framework Church, setting a tone of reflection and gratitude. Abbigail Martin, an NMCC alumna of the Class of ‘24, sang the national anthem.

Joyce Maker, Chair of the Maine Community College System (MCCS) Board of Trustees, extended warm greetings and congratulations on behalf of the MCCS Trustees.  She also shared that she was confident that the graduates were fully prepared to take the next step.  “Commencements are a day of celebration,” Maker said.  “It is an opportunity for all of us here today to share with you and your families an accomplishment that is of great significance, an accomplishment that reaffirms the belief that Maine people are willing to work hard to achieve their dreams.”

Jalen Isaiah Lucas, recipient of the Student of the Year award, delivered the student address, reflecting on the shared journey of the graduating class.  Jalen, an international student from Trinidad and Tobago, shared words of advice with his fellow graduates.  “Our time here together as a senior class will not be remembered by grades, popularity, likes, or favorites, but by relationships and the kind of people we were; these are legacies, the kind we should leave.”

NMCC was honored to welcome Brigadier General Diane Dunn, the 41st Adjutant General of the Maine National Guard and Commissioner of the Department of Defense, Veterans, and Emergency Management, to deliver the Commencement Address at the ceremony.  With her extensive leadership experience and commitment to service, General Dunn shared advice, “Your opportunities are endless, and I offer the following three words to you as you go from here, three words that I use as a guide and I believe are applicable regardless of life or career path – learn, work, and serve.”  General Dunn also encouraged graduates to stay in Maine and contribute to their communities.

NMCC’s President Tim Crowley shared a message with the graduates: “Throughout your time here, you have not only pursued academic excellence but also become integral members of our close-knit community. From participating in campus events to engaging in community service projects, your contributions have had a lasting impact on our campus and beyond. I deeply value the sense of camaraderie and mutual support that defines our community, and I encourage you to carry these values with you as you embark on the next step of your journey.”

After the ceremony, family and friends gathered alongside faculty and staff to celebrate the graduates’ achievements, enjoy hors d’oeuvres and refreshments, and take photos.

By Development & Public Affairs | May 14, 2024