SUNRISE, Fla. - More than 2,800 people made the transition on Dec. 11 from Broward College students to graduates.

The fall 2025 commencement ceremony took place in Sunrise at Amerant Bank Arena, home of the two-time Stanley Cup champion Florida Panthers. Judge Catalina M. Avalos of Florida’s 17th Judicial Circuit served as the commencement speaker. The ceremony was a homecoming for Avalos, who earned an associate degree from what was then called Broward Community College.

Avalos highlighted that she earned a scholarship to attend Broward Community College and overcame barriers like not being a native English speaker.

“About 35 years ago, like you, I was sitting at my graduation ceremony,” Avalos said. “Little did I know that my degree and the educational foundation I received at Broward College laid the foundation and opened doors that the little girl that emigrated from Colombia and spoke no English could not even dream of.”

Broward College President and CEO Torey Alston also addressed the Class of 2025.

“You are a reminder and inspiration of why we do this work to change lives,” he said. “Today is a day of celebration, a moment that reflects years of hard work, perseverance, and determination. The achievements and successes that got you here today have contributed to the momentum that is helping Broward College become the #1 destination for academic excellence.”

Some highlights from the Class of 2025:

• The 2,825 graduates broke down into 1,237 Associate of Arts degrees, 513 Associate of Science or Associate of Applied Science degrees, 188 bachelor’s degrees, and 887 certifications.
• There were 17 veteran graduates.
• The youngest graduate was 16, while the oldest was 71.

See the video below for some highlights from the ceremony.