PAC celebrates graduates at 32nd annual commencement ceremony

Palo Alto College celebrated 853 students' academic achievements at the annual Spring Commencement ceremony at 6:30 p.m. on Monday, May 20, at Freeman Coliseum.

Distinguished guests recognized during the ceremony included Rosie Castro, a community champion and retired Palo Alto College employee. Castro also served as keynote speaker and received an honorary degree, the 22^nd honorary degree approved by the Alamo Colleges District.

Since 2013, Palo Alto College has honored a former student during its annual commencement ceremony for exhibiting professional achievement, community service, and support of education. Palo Alto College presented two 2019 Outstanding Former Student awards to Rep. Philip Cortez, Texas District 117, and Maria Garcia, vice president for community engagement at CPS Energy.

More than 150 Early College High School (ECHS) graduates crossed the stage during the Palo Alto College's annual commencement ceremony to celebrate earning their associate degree before receiving their diploma from their respective high schools (Frank L. Madla Early College High School, South San Antonio Early College Academy, Southside Early College High School, S.T.E.M. Early College High School, and Shirleen Zacharias Early College Leadership Academy). Early college high schools allow students to simultaneously earn a high school diploma and up to 60 college credit hours toward an associate or bachelor degree.