Graduates start journey

More than 100 Mesalands Community College students began a new journey in their life during Friday's commencement ceremony.

"The journey you all have been on has shaped your lives and changed you in way you are yet to understand," said Nasha Torres, Dean of Students, University of New Mexico.

Torres, the keynote speaker, said each graduate's journey does not end after the gradation. She said a choice on where the journey goes next will be made by each graduate.

"Some will choose to continue with their education, others will enter the workforce," Torres said. "The hard work, sacrifices each of you have made, along with the support, sacrifices of your family and friends has put you on a road to success."

Torres said the graduates now have the foundation to build upon to create a successful future. She said the graduates accomplishments through their journey has not only shaped the landscape around them, it has inspired the ones around them.

"Your hard work, the struggles you endured to reach this very moment, may have inspired someone close to you to pursue their dreams," Torres said.

Torres said one of the most important things for the graduates to do along their new journey is 'to pay it forward,' by helping others pursue their dreams.

"You worked hard to better yourself," Torres said. "As you succeed in life you will have opportunities to make the world around you a better place."

Of the 101 graduates, 13 of them were dual enrollment students from area high schools, said Kimberly Hannah, Mesalands Public Relations Director.

"Being able to participate in the dual-enrollment class at Mesalands has given me a huge jump start to my college education," said Angelina Arellano, who earned her Associate of Arts Degree in university studies.

Arellano said the credits from Mesalands will transfer over to Eastern New Mexico University in Portales, where she plans to continue her undergraduate studies for a degree in psychology.

"The staff, faculty at Mesalands have been so amazing," Arellano said. "Offering the dual-enrollment courses gives students a headstart in the pursuit of their secondary education."

Friday's ceremony was dedicated to the honor and memory of the late J. Bronson Moore, who had served on the college's board of trustee from 2002-2018.

Moore, who died April 28, had been a trustee chair since 2007.

Gillard said Moore worked hard with the board of trustees and president to ensure the students of Mesalands received a high quality education.

"J. Bronson Moore was a great man, we will all miss him," Gillard said. "Mr. Moore was deeply admired by the campus community. Mesalands will always be grateful for his service."