York Technical College Honored Graduates During Commencement 2021

York Technical College awarded 1,497 degrees, diplomas and certificates to 1,123 students during Commencement 2021, held on Tuesday, May 11 at Winthrop Coliseum. The College hosted three ceremonies due to capacity limitations caused by the pandemic.

“We are always very proud of our graduates and their many accomplishments,” said York Tech President Greg F. Rutherford. “This year’s graduates in particular, have overcome significant challenges resulting from the pandemic, and so, we are especially excited about their success. I congratulate them all!”

Graduates in the Industrial and Engineering Technologies and Workforce Economic Development divisions graduated at 11 a.m., followed by those in the Health and Human Services Division at 3 p.m., and the Business, Computers, Arts and Science Division ceremony was held at 7 p.m.

“On behalf of the Commission for York Technical College, we are thrilled to celebrate the accomplishments of the graduating class of 2021,” said York Commission for Technical Education Chair Geri H. Rucker. “Our students, faculty and staff have shown their resilience during an unprecedented year of challenges. We are grateful for the important part York Tech plays in cultivating a well-prepared work force and contributing to the economic development in our community.”

Student speaker Moses Blue, a husband and father of five, earned his degree from the Teleproduction Technology program. He encouraged graduates to keep a positive attitude in their future endeavors.

“If they tell you that you can’t, remind yourself that you can,” Blue said. “Tell your fears I can, tell your doubts I can, and when you’re ready to quit, remind yourself that you can’t. Look yourself in the mirror and tell yourself, ‘I am greater than my circumstance.’”

Additionally, the President’s Award for Students was presented to four students from each academic division for their outstanding contribution to the College and community. Criteria includes high scholastic excellence, perseverance and attitude. Recipients included Janine Trask, Patrick Phillips, Aiden Grabb and Kara Sullivan.

Sullivan, a single mom who worked full-time and received her degree from the Paralegal program, said graduation signified her being able to show her daughter the importance of education.

“Committed to re-entering the college experience as a middle-aged, single parent was not an easy decision simply because I didn’t know how I was going to juggle my roles, responsibilities, and commitments in the different areas of my life,” Sullivan said. “The commitment paid off. The journey has been one filled with opportunity, confidence and growth.”

To enroll at the College, or for more information about registering for fall or summer sessions, visit yorktech.edu.