ROCKLAND COUNTY, NY — Rockland Community College (RCC) has announced its plans for the 2024 Commencement Ceremony, which will honor the achievements of its Spring 2024 graduates and those who completed their studies in Summer and Fall 2023. The ceremony is scheduled for May 20, 2024, at 11:00 AM and will take place at Clover Stadium in Pomona, New York.
This year, the graduates will be addressed by Dr. Alfredo Medina, Jr., Vice President for Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion at Bennington College in Vermont. With over three decades of experience in strategic leadership within the not-for-profit and higher education sectors, Dr. Medina has made significant contributions to fostering an institutional culture of equity and anti-racism at Bennington. His initiatives include recruiting diverse faculty and student bodies, aligning with his expertise in educational policy and leadership.
During the ceremony, RCC will also honor the recipients of the SUNY Chancellor’s Award for Student Excellence (CASE), celebrating the outstanding achievements of Ilyssa Shapiro and Sundari Ruth. Shapiro, who is graduating with an associate degree in Natural and Physical Sciences, has been an active member of the Sam Draper Honors Program and is looking forward to pursuing a bachelor’s degree in biology. Ruth, earning her degree in Humanities, has notably contributed to the RCC community through her roles as Student Government Association President and as an active member of various campus organizations.
The commencement will be a significant event not only as a celebration of academic accomplishments but also as a platform for Dr. Medina to share insights that may inspire the graduates as they transition to the next stages of their professional and educational journeys.
For those unable to attend in person, a livestream of the ceremony will be available, ensuring that all family members, friends, and community members can participate in celebrating the graduates’ milestones. More information about RCC and the commencement can be found on their website or through their various social media platforms.
RCC continues to be a pivotal institution in the community, providing educational opportunities that are supportive, affordable, and accessible, thereby enabling individuals to positively transform their lives and their communities.