Yakima Valley College presented its 92nd Graduating Class on June 18, 2021 with an online, live-streamed event. The celebration included both photo and video submissions from graduates, and encouraging messages from faculty, staff and administrators. YVC’s Choir performed a rendition of “Home,” the debut single from American Idol season 11 winner Phillip Phillips, as part of the celebration.
The celebration was streamed live over social media sites Facebook and YouTube as well as on public access channel YCTV 192. Students and their families enjoyed the event and had a great night celebrating their accomplishments. As a special gift, individual recognition video clips celebrating each student’s achievement were available following the ceremony that students and family members can share on social media.
The graduating class of 2021 includes 828 students ranging in age from 17 to 70. Seven of the students are veterans and 185 are Running Start students. This year the college awards a total of 866 degrees and certificates.
Among the graduates were the first cohort of students graduating with a Bachelor of Applied Science in Teacher Education. Twenty-five students made up this inaugural class, who started their studies in 2018. Many of these students were already YVC graduates and members of the Yakima community with half currently working in local school districts in para-professional or support staff positions.