Westchester Community College Graduates Record Class

WHITE PLAINS, N.Y. - Westchester Community College graduated a record number of 1,854 students Thursday at its 65th commencement held at the County Center in White Plains.

Westchester Community College Valedictorian Alessia Rivers delivers remarks at the 65th commencement at the County Center.

Photo Credit: Danny LoPriore

Westchester Community College President Joseph Hankin delivers remarks at the 65th commencement at the County Center.
Photo Credit: *Danny LoPriore*

Westchester Community College Student Governement President Taje Champagnie speaks at the 65th commencement at the County Center.
Photo Credit: *Danny LoPriore*

Westchester Commuity College held its 65th commencement at the County Center in White Plains.

Family and friends packed the County Center for the Westchester Community Collegr graduation.
Photo Credit: *Danny LoPriore*

Westchester Community College graduate Tonette Smith sings the National Anthem.
Photo Credit: *Danny LoPriore*

by Danny LoPriore

05/24/2013 9:00 a.m.

Valedictorian Alessia Rivers and Salutatorian Enrico Villa led the graduates in Associate of Science and Arts programs as the Valhalla-based college Class of 2013 were applauded by family and friends.

President Joseph Hankin greeted the audience and Westchester County Executive Robert Astorino, New York State Board of Regents member Harry Phillips III, Faculty Senate member Sean Simpson and Student Government President Taje Champagnie offered remarks. Both Rivers and Villa graduated with associate degrees in Cybersecurity. The Class of 2013 included students from ages 19-65 representing 56 countries. Rivers, a native of Italy who spoke little English before moving the United States several years ago, was one of 39 graduates who earned 4.0 grade point averages. Rivers spoke about the opportunity Westchester Community College offers to a diverse student body. "Regardless of how we measure success, studying at WCC has provided a tool and experience for us to become successful whatever the nature might be," Rivers said. "I believe that success is fulfilling your deep personal potential. Here at WCC, the staff the works diligently to meet the needs of each individual student to nurture our individual talents. You own pathway is your own success." Westchester Community College also honored 10 graduates of the Class of 1963 who were in attendance for the 50th reunion.

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