Above left, a special graphic to cheer on graduates from the Career Development and Experiential Learning team. At right Dr. Anne Hermans, Program Coordinator of the Veterinary Technology program, shared a photo from a “Gradzoomation” event she held with her students. “We had completely unofficial class awards for each student that I mailed out to them, and an interactive game,” Professor Hermans said. The online gathering provided celebratory spirit for all involved. Professor Hermans also added it was, “the first time I’ve worn graduation regalia with fuzzy slippers.”
Departments around the college are finding different ways to recognize graduating students. Paul Gallo, Director of Exercise Science and Wellness, mailed an alumni pin and letter to his students, a recognition that is normally awarded at the annual Exercise Science Graduation Night. Students have responded to him that receiving the pin gave them a chance to feel individually recognized and to reflect on their accomplishment.
A similar outreach was made to graduates of the Guaranteed Admission Program (GAP), a shared program between the University of Connecticut and the Connecticut Community College system allowing liberal arts transfers from NCC to continue a bachelor’s degree program at UConn. Graduates will receive a blue and white ceremonial cord on the morning of the virtual commencement to wear with their graduation cap and gown.
“Although it is a small gesture when compared to these graduates’ huge accomplishments, we wanted to make sure our students were able to stand out and be highlighted for all of their hard work in a special way. We hope that this cord can serve as a reminder to our graduates of their constant perseverance, dedication, motivation, and strength. A tangible memory of their smart start at NCC and all of the staff, faculty, and peers they were able to connect with along the way,” said Karla Smith, Student Retention Specialist at NCC’s Student Success Center.
