May 24, 2019

Students celebrate success and perseverance at Triton’s annual commencement ceremony

Rosemont, Ill. – Family and friends gathered to support the more than 400 graduates who took part in Triton College’s annual commencement ceremony at Rosemont Theatre on Saturday, May 18.

Triton President Mary-Rita Moore addressed the graduates during the ceremony, commending their commitment to achieving their educational goals, despite the obstacles and hardships many of them faced along the way.

“We know that that the key to personal success and the betterment of society is education,” President Moore told the graduates. “Making the decision to attend Triton College has opened the door for a whole new world of opportunities for you.”

Graduate Carlos Garcia Sanchez delivered the student reflection.

“Although sometimes tedious and successful, especially with occasional failure, we successfully persevered and overcame hurdles because of a strong support system that our peers, our professors, our advisors and our families provided.”

A touching video saluting the class of 2019 conjured up both tears and laughter from the graduates and the crowd. The video captured students reflecting on their journeys as Triton students, recalling their feelings on their first day of class, their favorite events and hardest classes.

All told, more than 1,400 Triton students received degrees or certificates this school year. Some will go on to study at four-year colleges or universities, while others look forward to entering the workforce.

One of the graduates, Dasia Rushing of Broadview, earned an Associate of Arts Degree. She plans to transfer to University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign to pursue a law degree.

“I came to Triton to figure out what I wanted to do with my life and I had a lot of fun doing it. I switched my major a few times, but law is really what I like.” Rushing said. “The TRiO and SURGE Programs were a huge help for me, in terms of helping me deal with stress and keeping me on track.” 

Yasmine Bricka graduated with a degree in diagnostic medical sonography and looks forward to beginning her career as an ultrasound technician. She was happy to share her success with her sister and mother who joined her at commencement.

“They supported me throughout my two years at Triton, so having them here means everything to me,” she said.

Best wishes to all of the graduates as they embark on their next academic or professional adventure.

Click here for photos from the commencement ceremony.