Graduation season is officially here, and festivities in the region were kicked off with multiple ceremonies spanning two days at the campus of California State University, Stanislaus in Turlock.

At Stanislaus State’s 63rd annual commencement, 2,988 graduates and 373 credential recipients were honored across three ceremonies. The ceremonies also marked the return of all commencement traditions, including a processional, reserved seating for graduates and walks across stage, some of which were paused for ceremonies in 2021 and 2022 due to COVID-19 restrictions.

“What a road you’ve traveled to get to this moment,” said Stan State president Ellen Junn. “No one anticipated that our lives would be disrupted by a global pandemic, but you persevered and made it through the mayhem, and you did so with fierce determination and a positive attitude. You did not lose your resolve. You never lost your hopeful spirit. 

“During your time here, you have often heard talk of our Warrior Strength and our Warrior Pride. You have experienced firsthand what it means to be a Warrior. In fact, each of you epitomizes what it means to be Warrior Strong.”

Briana Sanchez, who is graduating with a Bachelor of Arts in communications studies, was the student speaker for Thursday morning’s ceremony, also reflecting on the difficulties and hecticness of navigating college in such a unique time.

“I urge everyone to just smell the roses; take and enjoy the moments,” she said.

During the afternoon ceremony, Junn awarded Honorary Doctorate of Humane Letters to Norm Porges and son Evan Porges. Norm founded Prime Shine Car Wash in Modesto in 1991. That same year, after Evan graduated from college, he joined his father’s company. In 1997, Norm partnered with the College of Business Administration to establish the Champions of the American Dream award and event, which recognizes individuals in the Central Valley who have distinguished themselves as entrepreneurs and have made exceptional contributions to the community.

“You are now armed with a degree that will open doors and provide you with opportunities,” Evan told graduates. “There is so much opportunity right here in the Central Valley, and we ask that you stay and apply your talent, your brain and your passion right here in your Central Valley community.”

This year’s commencement also marked the final one for Junn, who announced her retirement earlier this year.

“I announced my plans to retire after the end of this academic year, so these are my final commencement ceremonies in which I’ll preside as President of the University. I participated in many commencements throughout my life and my 39 years in higher education, but I will always remember this one with special fondness,” she said.

Recording of each of this year’s ceremonies and photo galleries can be found at www.csustan.edu/commencement/webcast-galleries.