Schoolcraft College’s 57th annual Commencement, scheduled for 2 p.m. on Saturday, May 7, in the St. Joe’s Mercy Elite Sports Center (ESC) on the main campus, will be open to a new era.
That’s because this will be the first Commencement at ESC that will welcome guests. Last year’s graduation ceremony was open to students only due to health-related precautions.
“We’re pleased to welcome guests to this year’s Commencement,” said Dr. Glenn Cerny, President of Schoolcraft College. “Graduates share with us how important the support from family members and friends has been during their journey, so it’s our privilege to once again have their guests here in person to share in their great day.”
This year’s keynote speaker is Marina Shoemaker, the Director of Global Diversity and Inclusion Strategies DEI External Partnerships for General Motors.
“It’s our honor to have such a distinguished speaker,” Dr. Cerny said. “Marina has been a great friend to Schoolcraft College over the years, willingly lending her expertise to important initiatives, including helping incorporate a DEI component into our STARS DEI leadership program and serving as a co-chair of our Foundation’s Vision 2025 campaign.”
More than 900 applications for graduation were received by Student Records, with nearly 400 students signed up to participate in Commencement.
Skills Certificates, Certificates, Associate degrees, Bachelor of Science degrees and Post-Associate degrees will be awarded. In addition, the College will confer Honorary Degrees and recognize a Distinguished Alumni during Commencement.
The Student Reflection will be delivered by Catreese Qualls, whose many accomplishments and contributions to Schoolcraft College include:
- 2021/2022 Division III International Vice President, Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society
- Michigan All-Academic Team Silver Scholar
- Coca-Cola Scholar
- STARS DEI mentor
- Oberndorf Scholar
- Kehrl Communications Arts Scholar
Ozzy, the new Schoolcraft College mascot, will make its official debut and will be available for photos, including in a new 360-degree photo booth where users can instantly share their photos. (Maximum of four people in the photo booth.)
Traditional photo booths also will be available. Students can upload their photos on their social channels and use the hashtags #OcelotPride and #OcelotGrad.
Doors open at 12 p.m. Students are asked to arrive by 1 p.m.
A livestream will be available.