Broward College Celebrates Spring 2015 Commencement

FORT LAUDERDALE, FL (May 5, 2015) - Broward College conferred more than 4,000 degrees and certificates today at its 83rd commencement ceremony at the BB&T Center. These students joined more than 125,000 students who have graduated from Broward College since it was established in 1959. 

“We commend all of our graduates on their many accomplishments and wish them much success in their future endeavors,” said Broward College President J. David Armstrong, Jr. “This major milestone empowers them to meet their academic and career goals, and so much more.”

The keynote address was delivered by Donna Shalala, the current president of the University of Miami, who is stepping down to become the president and chief executive officer of the Clinton Foundation. During more than 30 years of experience as an accomplished scholar, teacher and administrator, Shalala served in the Carter administration as assistant secretary for policy development and research at the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, and in 1993, U.S. President Bill Clinton appointed her secretary of Health and Human Services (HHS). She served for eight years — the longest term of any HHS secretary in U.S. history. 

During the ceremony, Broward College President J. David Armstrong, Jr., conferred 2,567 associate’s degrees, 203 bachelor’s degrees and 1,728 technical certificates to students who represent more than 100 countries. The oldest graduate was 73 and the youngest was 16. There were 177 graduates 50 years of age and older. 

 student success stories 

• David Lewkowicz, 18, a hardworking and driven student, graduates with a high school diploma, a 4.0 GPA and an associate of arts degree from Broward College. He has already been accepted into the United States Naval Academy. 
• A “dreamer” student, Maria Madrinan escaped with her family from the unstable political climate and terrorist threats in their native country of Colombia. Through many challenges, Madrinan saw a door and a pathway leading toward a better future.
• Steven and Joel Pencle, father and son, graduated together. Despite job loss, divorce, legal challenges, temporary displacement and a demanding academic schedule, they never gave up their educational dreams. 

The ceremony also featured a commissioning for ROTC graduate Ricardo A. Ellis. The commissioning ceremony is a time honored tradition that signifies an officer joining the U.S. Army and is a visible transformation from cadet to officer. Major Craig L. Halsey, professor of Military Science Army ROTC South Strike Battalion at Florida International University, conducted the commissioning of Ellis, promoting him to the rank of second lieutenant. 

For more information regarding Broward College’s commencement ceremony, contact Angela Nicoletti at 954-201-7939 or anicolet@broward.edu. 

-BC-