Southwestern College is holding its 63rd annual commencement ceremonies on May 24. With 2,866 students receiving degrees and certificates, the college is holding two ceremonies at DeVore Stadium, one at 10 a.m., and another at 4 p.m., depending on student’s area of study. Both ceremonies will be livestreamed on YouTube at www.youtube.com/@SWC_College.
“We congratulate our graduating class of 2024,” said Southwestern College Superintendent/President Dr. Mark Sanchez in a press release. “In 2024, the value of a college education is as important as it has ever been. When you walk across this stage, you’re taking your first steps towards your future, whether you later become a teacher, a paramedic, a nurse, or a computer programmer. I wish the best for each and every one of you as you prepare for the opportunities of today and tomorrow.”
As part of the ceremonies, the college will award an honorary degree to Angelina “Angie” Stuart, a longtime English as a Second Language instructor who counts her navigation of Southwestern College through rigorous accreditation cycles, and her tenure as president of the Academic Senate. Stuart will attend the 4 p.m. ceremony.
Stuart began Southwestern College in 1990, joining as an ESL instructor. Growing up in a household where Spanish was her primary language, her upbringing uniquely equipped her to connect and empower her students. Over her tenure, Stuart has assumed various roles including, World Languages and ESL Department chair, Tenure Review Coordinator, and Academic Senate president during a period of significant change at the college.
“Her tenure at SWC was marked by both triumphs and challenges. She recalls the initial sense of belonging, akin to joining a family, which motivated her to excel in her teaching and leadership roles. However, institutional and personal challenges tested her resilience. Yet, through trust, collaboration, and unwavering dedication, Stuart and her colleagues overcame obstacles, strengthening the fabric of SWC’s community. Among her proudest achievements are the renegotiation of the Academic Senate’s agreement and navigating SWC through rigorous accreditation cycles. These accomplishments underscored SWC’s commitment to faculty leadership and its indomitable spirit in facing challenges head-on.”
Receiving an Honorary Degree is a testament to Stuart’s dedication and impact on SWC. While humbled by the honor, she attributes her success to the collaborative efforts of the college community.
As South San Diego County’s only public institute of higher education, located just 8 miles from the California-Mexico border, Southwestern College serves as a valuable pipeline powering a vibrant binational economy. Whether they enter the workforce right away or transfer to a four-year university, Southwestern College graduates contribute $362.2 million annually to the local economy, equivalent to supporting 3,743 jobs. Graduates will take on some of San Diego County’s most needed jobs, with many of this month’s graduates planning on entering fields from emergency response to nursing.
