Broward College Celebrates Fall 2016 Commencement

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

FORT LAUDERDALE, FL (DECEMBER 15, 2016) - More than 3,200 degrees and certificates were conferred today to graduates at the 85th commencement ceremony for Broward College held at the Greater Fort Lauderdale Broward County Convention Center.

During the ceremony, Broward College President Armstrong conferred 2444 associate degrees, 192 bachelor's degrees and 639 technical certificates to students who represented more than 101 countries. The oldest graduate was 78. 

"This is a major achievement and I congratulate you for making it to this point. Don't let your dreams and ambitions end with the degree or certificate you receive today," said Broward College President J. David Armstrong, Jr. in his address to students. "We have equipped you to meet the demands of the modern workforce but that is only the start. Your accomplishment here is an indication of your determination to do well. Take that spirit of excellence with you and leave your mark wherever you go. "   

The keynote address was delivered by Joshua Wyner, vice president and executive director of the College Excellence Program at the Aspen Institute. Wyner oversees two key initiatives within the institute: the prestigious Aspen Prize for Community College Excellence and the New College Leadership Project, which works to align the hiring and professional development of college presidents. Wyner has authored numerous reports, opinion editorials and other publications about education, including the book, "What Excellent Community Colleges Do: Preparing All Students for Success."

The Aspen vice president commended the College for being one of the top community colleges across the nation, and he encouraged graduates to continually measure their success by evaluating the contributions of their actions to their communities.  "Let's all, at this somewhat tenuous time in our national experience, dedicate ourselves to giving real value to the notion of liberty, equality and justice for all. That's what drives me in my work and I know so many of you share that value. Once, again congratulations; you have succeeded," he said.

Broward College is one of two Florida Colleges which have earned a place on the Aspen top ten finalists' list. The Aspen Prize is awarded every two years and recognizes outstanding institutions selected from more than 1,000 public community colleges nationwide. The Prize assesses community colleges' achievements in the areas of student learning, certificate and degree completion, employment and earnings for graduates, and access and success for minority and low-income students.  The $1 million prize fund will be awarded in March 2017. The College also made the top ten list in 2013.