Celebrating Graduates Safely

TJC recognizes Spring 2021 graduates with multiple small ceremonies

Tyler Junior College celebrated 1,207 graduates for the Spring 2021 semester during 10 small ceremonies on May 10 and 11. The special graduations were created to honor the students’ achievements and allow them to walk the stage while still maintaining health and safety guidelines. TJC held the 10 ceremonies over two days in Wagstaff Gymnasium with limited attendance at each session. Each graduate was allowed to bring four guests, and physical distancing and face coverings were required. Graduates crossed the stage to receive their diplomas in the presence of TJC President Dr. Juan E. Mejia, Provost Dr. Deana Sheppard, and a TJC Faculty Senate representative. Also present at the ceremonies were Mitch Andrews, vice president for institutional advancement, who emceed the ceremonies; Kim Lessner, vice president for operations, working out logistics; Kevin Fowler, chief human resources officer, assisting the graduates; and a limited number of faculty and staff. Of the more-than-1,400 degrees and certificates awarded, 30 graduates received baccalaureate

degrees: nine in dental hygiene and 21 in healthcare technology and medical systems. Among the graduates were four Associate Degree Nursing students who also received their Bachelor of Science Nursing from The University of Texas at Tyler in the inaugural class of the concurrent enrollment program. More than 100 graduates were high school students “We always look forward to celebrating our graduates and honoring them for their hard work and success.” who simultaneously received their high school diplomas and associate degrees through dual credit courses or Early College Dr. Juan E. Mejia High School. For Shemina Maddox, it was a special celebration with her son Billy, and daughter Brittley, as all three received TJC degrees. Shemina Maddox earned her Bachelor of Applied Technology in Healthcare Technology and Medical Systems while Brittley and Billy received their associate degrees. Ms. Maddox, the first in four generations to graduate from college, said, “I’m at a loss for words; it’s unexplainable but so exciting. I think it’s a push for them [Brittley and Billy] to keep going and not give up.”