The Austin Community College District (ACC) celebrates its summer and fall graduates during commencement 6 to 8 p.m. Friday, December 16, at the Frank Erwin Center (1701 Red River St.).

More than 2,700 students are eligible to participate, a 17 percent increase over fall 2015.

“Our students continue to inspire me,” says Dr. Richard Rhodes, ACC president and CEO. “Starting college isn’t easy. These students have persevered and grown both academically and personally. I’m proud of their commitment to complete a college degree. It’s not only a commitment to a better life for themselves, but for their families, and our community. “

The commencement ceremony includes a tribute to graduating veterans, who will receive medallions in appreciation of their service.

Former Austin Mayor Gus Garcia and his wife, Marina, will deliver a joint keynote address. A staunch political and educational leader in the community, Gus Garcia has been honored with the LULAC Award for Political Involvement & Education and recognized with the Martin Luther King Association Humanitarian Award. He became the first Hispanic elected to the Austin Independent School Board and helped galvanize voter support for the establishment of Austin Community College. He served as mayor for the city of Austin from 2001 to 2003. An educational leader herself, Marina Garcia spent 20 years leading bilingual special education programs in Central Texas schools.

The ceremony will stream live on the college’s website. Visit the Commencement page to learn more and to watch the live stream.

Tags: fall commencement, Frank Erwin Center, graduates, graduation, Gus Garcia, Marina Garcia