Fall Commencement Recognizes Student Achievements

12/11/2024

St. Petersburg College held its 146th commencement ceremony on Tuesday, Dec. 10, at The BayCare Sound in Clearwater.

What typically takes months to plan was pulled together in just a few weeks as the College had to quickly shift gears and find a new venue due to the damage to Tropicana Field from Hurricane Milton. The weather and scenic waterfront at The BayCare Sound was a picturesque backdrop for the evening’s celebration.

SPC President Dr. Tonjua Williams opened the ceremony by recognizing the students for their resolve and determination through the recent hurricanes. “Many of you faced the formidable forces of Hurricane Helene and Hurricane Milton,” she said. “You adapted to the circumstances, turning challenges into opportunities for growth. These hurricanes were not just natural disasters. They were moments that defined your college experience and shaped your character.”

Samantha Diaz

Dr. Karalynne Brubaker, Pastor of Positive Impact Church gave the invocation, and SPC music student Elizabeth Daley led the singing of the National Anthem.

Following recognition of student achievements including those graduating Cum Laude and Magna Cum Laude, approximately 700 graduates in attendance crossed the stage to receive their degree. From nursing to business to music, more than 1,700 degrees and credentials were awarded to graduates from the Summer and Fall 2024 terms.

Single mom Samantha Diaz realized her goal of receiving her Associate in Science in Health Services Administration. After a challenging journey of overcoming addiction, she persevered at SPC with the support of SPC’s Women on the Way program. “SPC made me feel like I belong, and helped me become the woman I am today,” she said. Diaz will continue at SPC to pursue a bachelor’s degree and hopes to join the Nursing program.

Tayvon Young

Tayvon Young’s SPC experience helped him achieve his goal of joining the music industry. He received his Associate in Science in Music Industry and Recording Arts, and has already begun his career as a sound engineer thanks to SPC. He’s been on two music tours – Luke Bryan and Zach Bryan – and is scheduled to work a show in the very venue where he was seated with his cap and gown.

“My experience at SPC was amazing. I made a lot of friends and connections. It helped me step into the field with confidence,” he said.

Kenya Welch

Kenya Welch, who at 22 owns her own beauty salon, graduated with a Bachelor of Arts in Business Administration, with a focus on entrepreneurship. She held back tears as she said, “I did this for my grandparents.”

Stephanie Baldwin, age 43, received her Bachelor of Science in Nursing. As a nurse of more than 14 years, she decided to continue her education with the ultimate goal of getting a doctorate and becoming a professor.

Graduates ranged from 17 to 77 years old, including 13 graduates over the age of 60, and more than 300 who were first in their families to receive a degree.

Following the conferring of degrees, as Dr. Williams announced, “I present the graduating class of Fall 2024,” a round of applause filled The Sound.

To see an album of candid graduation photos, visit the SPC Facebook page.