Congratulations graduating Riverbats

Austin Community College honored more than 1,600 fall and summer graduates at its fall commencement ceremony, December 11, in the Frank Erwin Center.

The college’s commencement is a celebration for the entire ACC District— students, alumni, faculty, staff, and visiting guests. It is a long-awaited and much anticipated accomplishment.

“Watching our students walk the stage and hearing their family and friends cheering in the crowd is electrifying,” says Dr. Richard Rhodes, ACC president and CEO. “It’s the start of a new beginning for them. We’re honored to be a part of that journey.”

The commencement included a special tribute to Richard Overton, 108. Recognized as the oldest surviving veteran of World War II, Overton received an honorary associate degree from ACC.

“This is nice. I can’t believe I’m putting on a cap and gown,” says Overton. “I’m just a person. I’m not a hero, but it’s nice to be honored.”

He joined approximately two dozen graduating veteran students, who each received medallions in appreciation of their military service.

At the ceremony, Victor Hwang, CEO and co-founder of T2 Venture Creation, served as featured speaker.

“I know it’s been hard to get here. For many of you, it’s been harder than it should have been,” says Hwang. “I have deep admiration for what you’ve done. I’m moved by what your friends and families have sacrificed.”

Fall graduates will join the ranks of ACC alumni along with the more than 1,500 students who graduated in spring. The number of graduates at ACC continues to grow. More than 2,500 students graduated in 2012-13 marking an approximate 59 percent increase over five years ago. Final numbers for 2013-2014 will be released in January.

View additional photos from commencement online:

flickr.com/photos/accdistrict/sets/72157649767886392/

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