FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla. – Broward College is pleased to announce that Catalina M. Avalos, a judge in Florida’s 17th Judicial Circuit Court and Broward College alumna, will deliver the keynote speech at Broward College’s Fall 2025 Commencement.

The ceremony is scheduled for 2:30 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 11, at the Amerant Bank Arena, 1 Panther Pkwy, Sunrise.

"We’re excited to have Judge Avalos come full circle from Broward College graduate to commencement speaker,” said Broward College President and CEO Torey Alston. “Her success in the legal profession and judiciary demonstrates the power of a Broward College degree and how far it can take you.”

Avalos has been practicing law for almost 30 years and has extensive experience in both civil and criminal court matters, in federal and state courts. She was named a Circuit Court Judge in 2023 by Gov. Ron DeSantis and currently presides over family cases. Avalos previously served as a county court judge, initially appointed by Gov. Jeb Bush and then again by DeSantis. She began her career as an Assistant State Attorney where she prosecuted cases involving the use of firearms and second-degree murders. She then served as a director with the law firm of Tripp Scott, focusing on employment law and complex commercial litigation.

Avalos earned an associate degree at what was then called Broward Community College, followed by a bachelor’s degree at Florida International University and a juris doctorate from Nova Southeastern University (NSU). She received the Broward Community College Distinguished Alumna Award and the NSU Distinguished Alumni Achievement Award. Avalos has been married for more than 30 years and is a grandmother.

Looking for more information about the Fall 2025 Commencement ceremony at Broward College? Check out our dedicated Graduation page.

– BC –