Last week, hundreds of families, friends, and community members came together to celebrate
the 77th Commencement of Palo Verde College Pirates, honoring the achievements of the Class of 2025 with ceremonies at both the Blythe main campus on Saturday, May 31, and the Needles Educational Center on Thursday, May 29.
With music, applause, and heartfelt speeches, this year’s graduation events recognized
students from across the district who earned associate degrees, GEDs, noncredit certificates,
and short-term career preparation credentials. Together, the two ceremonies showcased
not just student success—but also the college’s commitment to opportunity, and community
growth.
A Week of Milestones and Momentum
At the Blythe ceremony, 349 associate degrees, 469 certificates, and 5 GEDs were awarded to students spanning programs from Nursing to Welding, Child Development to Criminal Justice. For the Needles Center, the ceremony celebrated 2 associate degrees and 9 certificates of career preparation, with a warm hometown crowd in attendance.
The celebrations marked a historic first for Palo Verde College, with noncredit ESL and GED completers participating in the commencement processions alongside degree and certificate earners.
“This year’s commencement marks a powerful milestone for Palo Verde College. Witnessing
a record crowd and, for the first time in our history, celebrating the achievements
of our noncredit and GED students alongside our traditional graduates is both humbling
and historic. It reflects our expanding mission to serve all learners—no matter where
they begin their educational journey. This ceremony symbolizes the inclusive, learner-centered
future we are building together as a college and as a community.”
— Dr. Bruce Moses, Superintendent/President, Palo Verde College
Honoring Academic Excellence
Among the top honors awarded during the ceremonies:
- Valedictorian: Mckenzie Lyn Crawford, earning the highest GPA in her graduating class.
- Salutatorians: Judy Gomez, Galilea Silva-Cid, and Christopher Stewart-Page, recognized for academic distinction.
- Graduate of the Year: Omar Rangel-Lopez, honored for academic excellence and leadership.
• Faculty Member of the Year: Professor Maria Gamez - Staff Members of the Year: Artemiza Lujano, Veronica Barcenas, and Eric Tautala
Dozens of students graduated with honors, including Cum Laude recipients recognized for maintaining a GPA of 3.5 or higher. The ceremonies also celebrated student veterans, student-athletes, Puente scholars, and EOPS participants, with each group wearing cords or stoles to reflect their contributions.
Student Voices, Local Leadership
One of the most memorable moments of the week came from Elizabeth Berry, the student
speaker at the Needles graduation. A full-time mom, 4.0 GPA graduate, and active community
member, Berry spoke candidly about overcoming adversity and finding hope and purpose
through education.
Her message emphasized faith, perseverance, and community support:
“Failure does not mean you are finished; it means you are growing.”
The keynote speaker at Needles, Andrea Wade, a longtime public health nurse and adjunct instructor at PVC, shared her story of
returning to school while raising a family, inspiring graduates to see challenges
as launchpads for service.
In Blythe, Dr. Diana Rodriguez Chancellor of the San Bernardino Community College District delivered an empowering
keynote, reminding students of their capacity to lead and create change. As a PVC
alumna herself, her message resonated deeply with graduates and guests alike.
A Celebration of Community
Each commencement ceremony was more than a recognition of academic achievement—it
was a powerful reflection of the deep connection between Palo Verde College and the
communities it serves. Families, educators, and local leaders were not simply guests;
they were honored as essential partners in each student’s journey.
Stella Camargo-Styers, President of the Palo Verde College Board of Trustees, captured the spirit of the
occasion in her remarks:
"Palo Verde College’s commencement was a celebration of resilience, determination,
and the incredible achievements of our students. Congratulations on reaching this
milestone. Your persistence has brought you here, and we couldn’t be prouder."
"We extend our heartfelt thanks to Dr. Diana Rodriguez Chancellor of the San Bernardino
Community College District for her inspiring keynote address. Her words of encouragement
will stay with our graduates as they step into their futures."
"To the families and community members—your support, sacrifices, and unwavering belief
in our students have been instrumental. This moment is yours, too."
"I’d also like to recognize our new College President, Dr. Bruce Moses, for his leadership
and vision, and express gratitude to Vice President Clint Cowden and our outstanding
faculty and staff. Your dedication has made a lasting difference in the lives of our
students."
"Once again, congratulations to the Class of 2025. May your future be guided by purpose,
filled with passion, and rich with opportunity."
Looking Forward
In his remarks, Dr. Bruce Moses, Superintendent-President Palo Verde College, praised the college’s mission-driven approach and recognized the broad diversity of the student body:
“Whether you’re a dual enrollment student, an adult returning to education, or someone who completed your GED this year—you belong here. And your success proves the value of opportunity.”
With 2025 graduates heading into careers, transferring to four-year universities,
or stepping into leadership in their communities, the ceremonies served as both an
ending and a beginning.
Palo Verde College’s Class of 2025 leaves behind a legacy of persistence, growth,
and achievement—ready to carry the region forward.
“Every step across the stage is a story of perseverance, pride, and possibility. At Palo Verde College, we honor every journey and embrace the diverse voices that shape our future.” – Photo Credit Cecy Garcia
“Superintendent/President Dr. Bruce Moses and college leadership honored the accomplishments of this year’s graduates during both the Blythe and Needles ceremonies.” – Photo Credit Cecy Garcia
“Graduates from the Needles Center gathered with family, friends, and faculty to celebrate their hard work, determination, and academic success.” – Photo Credit Jaclyn Randall
“Moments like these reflect the heart of Palo Verde College — where dedication is honored, achievements are shared, and every graduate’s journey is valued.” – Photo Credit Cecy Garcia