KCC confers 200 degrees, certificates at 28th annual commencement ceremonies

Nearly 200 Klamath Community College students received degrees Friday night on campus with about 800 friends and family looking on.

Keynote speaker, State Rep. Emily McIntire.KCC Photo

The following is a press release from Klamath Community College.

KLAMATH FALLS – Nearly 200 students walked across the stage to receive their diplomas and certificates Friday night at Klamath Community College’s 28th annual commencement ceremonies, with about 800 friends and family looking on.

Several students were recognized for their hard work, and ability to overcome roadblocks to success. Two professors also were honored by the college; one who is retiring and the other who was chosen by her students as an outstanding instructor.

“Students, we have watched you struggle, grow and develop,” KCC President Dr. Roberto Gutierrez told the audience. “We are confident you will turn those struggles into strengths and assets. For many of you, your college experience has resulted in something much more than a degree; it is a chance for a new beginning and a pathway for opportunity and change. For others, their educational experiences have been a time for reflection, self-assurance, direction and a vision for the future.”

Keynote address on education hurdles

State Representative Emily McIntire, whose district includes Klamath County, was the keynote speaker. McIntire focused on the challenges of the education in Oregon, such as student debt and incoming freshmen unprepared for the rigors of college.

“For me, it’s a call to action — to continue advocating for meaningful change, to work tirelessly to prioritize education funding and to ensure every student has an opportunity to succeed,” McIntire said.

“And for you, graduates, it’s a reminder of your own resilience and capacity for greatness. Despite the obstacles you’ve faced, you’ve triumphed. Carry this moment with you as you strive for excellence in all you do.”

Longtime math instructor MaryLou Wogan is honored for her work. KCC Photo.

Longtime faculty honored

Dr. Gutierrez recognized longtime math instructor, MaryLou Wogan, who retires after 27 years on the campus.

“In the time she has been here, she has received numerous distinguished awards; for example, KCC’s Faculty of the Year award, Outstanding Student Advisor award, Faculty Acceleration Merit award,” he said.

Just last week, Wogan was named to the Deanna Conner Community College award, a statewide honor for contributions to the Oregon Education Association, given to one who advocates for Oregon community colleges.

The students honored instructor Linda Williamson, program lead in business administration. Vice President of Human Resources and college counsel Joshua Guest presented the award.

As one student wrote: “Linda has helped me tremendously with my career goals. I know I can be thrown a curveball sometimes, but she is always willing to help no matter the circumstance. I have had her as an advisor and teacher for the past two years. Linda’s willingness to help, teach, and empower are just some of the many reasons she should be recognized.”

Graduate Louie Wahl is honored for his work. KCC Photo.

Students recognized for persevering

A pair of students were also honored by Vice President of Student Affairs Gail Schull—Jamie Goree and Louie Wahl.

Goree is a Ford Family Opportunity Scholar.

“Jamie began her journey at KCC three years ago as a mother of four young children. She wanted to pursue her education to provide her kids a better life and be a role model for them. She wanted to show that you can achieve anything if you set your mind to it.  She welcomed her fifth child last summer while attending school full-time. She suffered the untimely passing of her fiancé shortly after her youngest child was born, but she persevered and still maintained amazing grades in difficult classes. Her fiancé was one of her biggest supporters and she decided to continue on with school to honor his memory; knowing that completing her educational goals is what he would have wanted for her. She is completing her associate of science degree with a 3.0 GPA and plans to go to OIT for a pre-med veterinary degree. I am proud to share that Jamie is one of KCC’s Ford Family Opportunity Scholars; an award that will pay for up to $40,000 per year to help her complete her degree at Oregon Tech,” said Schull.

“Louie Wahl is graduating today with a certificate in Addiction Studies and will complete his AGS in Psychology in the fall. His GPA has earned him a place on the President’s List for most of his time at KCC. He started his education here to turn his life around and become a role model for his young son. Louie struggled with substance abuse and spent time in prison, which made it difficult to find a good job. He is a member of the Klamath Tribes and joined a tribal program that supported his transition to Vocational Rehabilitation, KCC’s Inclusive Career Advancement Program (ICAP), and the SNAP Training and Education Program (STEP). Once enrolled at KCC, Louie joined the TRIO program, and eventually the Ag and Science Clubs. He attributes his academic success to the support he’s received from the Tribes, Voc Rehab, and KCC. He is now focused on maintaining a healthy home and spiritual life, and is working with his ICAP career coach on transferring to pursue a bachelor’s degree.”

The college offers nearly 90 certificates and two-year degrees across 24 disciplines, ranging from accounting to nursing to the construction trades. It serves about 6,000 students; the equivalent of 2,000 fulltime students enrolled annually.

To view a recording of the ceremonies, visit KCC Commencement 2024 (youtube.com)
For more information about KCC and its programs, visit www.klamathcc.edu