Serving the High Plains
Serving the High Plains
More than 120 received their associate degree, certification or general education diploma Friday during Mesalands Community College's graduation ceremony.
"You are not here because you are lucky; you are here because you had the strength to follow through," said Donald Schutte, commencement speaker.
Schutte, a local attorney, said the graduates had the strength of their desire to accomplish this goal in their lives. He said as long as the graduates continue to have desire and commitment to accomplishing future goals the will prosper and succeed.
Schutte said while their hard work and determination brought them to this point, the graduates must not forget they could not have done this without the support of their family and friends.
The Tucumcari Convention Center was filled with family and friends who were there to support and cheer on the graduates.
Family is what made this graduation a special event for so many, including the student speaker, Megan Williamson.
Williamson said having her mother not only at her side in support, but also as a fellow graduate, made this event mean so much more.
"It has been my greatest honor having you by my side," Williamson said. "I am truly proud of you."
Williamson and her mother Julie Keck were honored during the graduation for being selected as members of the 2013 All-State New Mexico Academic Team.
Keck said it is a feeling like no other to see and be a part of her daughter accomplishing one of her goals in life.
Williamson said while she and her fellow graduates have achieved so much, there is no reason to stop here. She said today's accomplishment are just the start to what they can achieve in their lives.
Williamson and Keck both plan to continue their education following graduation.
Graduating with an associate of art degree in pre-med, Williamson plans to attend Virginia Commonwealth University in Richmond, Va., and major in radiology.
Keck received an associate of art degree in business management and said she will attend Mesalands next year to earn her bachelor's degree in business through the college's partnership with the University of New Mexico.
"All of you have accomplished so much, this is your day and it marks the beginning of the success you will have in life," said J. Bronson Moore, chair board of trustees.