GCC's Season of Ceremony

Ceremony is important, and at no time of year is that more true than when we conclude an academic year. I have been consistently impressed with how GCC faculty and staff handle special events, especially those that focus on academic achievement. In the past two weeks, it was my privilege to participate in at least six end-of-year events. From the nursing pinning ceremony to the automotive program banquet, among many others, different groups on campus celebrated their respective accomplishments amid family and friends. A great deal of behind-the-scenes support makes these events possible, including the hard work of Maintenance & Operations, Media Services, Food Services, Student Life, Community Relations, College Safety, and numerous other units.

Commencement by the Numbers

The capstone to 2002-03 was GCC's 38th annual Commencement ceremony, held last Friday evening and attended by more than 2,000. The event was seamless. Here are a few interesting facts: 762 degrees (from 45 degree programs) and 969 certificates (from 32 certificate programs) were awarded this month, with 282 students participating in Commencement ceremony. Counting these numbers, GCC has awarded a grand total of 23,056 degrees and 6,961 certificates since its first graduating class in 1966.

Our keynote speaker, Maricopa County School Superintendent Dr. Sandra Dowling, did a great job in firing up the graduates and their families. I have already met with her as a follow-up to express our appreciation. Faculty speaker Betty Hufford was equally well received, as were student speakers Nathan Farmer, Robert Gaytan, and Rafael Soto. As always, the music was exceptional, under the leadership of Bill Humbert (symphonic band) and Craig Peterson (vocal jazz). We were pleased also that Governing Board Member Gene Eastin could be with us.

Budget/Capital Planning Retreat

On June 4 and 5, the GCC Administrative Group will hold two half-day retreats to address in depth the college's new budget development process and capital planning issues. For one of those sessions, I have invited the District's Director of Facilities Planning and Development, Lionel Diaz, to discuss with us the next steps in capital planning that will link to the Governing Board's ongoing consideration of a possible bond election in November 2004. These are very important deliberations as they will affect all of us. As always, I'll do my best to keep you posted about decisions made and next steps.

Dr. Phil D. Randolph
President
Glendale Community College