Atascadero Campus celebrates its first graduation

The SJVC Atascadero campus held its first graduation on June 28, 2019, at the Atascadero Bible Church in Atascadero, Calif. This was a special event as it was the first graduation for the campus and included guests from throughout the community.

The Class of 2019 included 26 graduates who completed one of three programs: Clinical Medical Assisting, Medical Office Administration, and Business Administration. The event included keynote speaker Richard Gearhart, who is a local KSBY News Anchor and Journalism Professor.

Two students in particular were recognized for outstanding achievements including Arlene Nunes, who received the SJVC Founders’ Award, and Amanda Hall, who received the Valedictorian award. The Founder’s Award honors one graduate who most exemplifies the standards set forth by SJVC’s founders, Robert and Shirley Perry.

“San Joaquin Valley College has given me a firm foundation to be able to have a successful career as a medical assistant,” said Arlene Nunes. “If I had never sent an email to SJVC asking for more information about the campus, I would have still been working a dead-end job that I didn’t enjoy.”

Graduation is an exciting time for students and faculty. It marks both an ending and a beginning; it’s warm memories of the past and big dreams for the future. The graduates are honored to be among the first to bring career college skills to the local community. While many follow a path, the Class of 2019 traveled where there was none and instead left a trail behind them.

“SJVC has become my family,” said Amanda Hall. “They have become the friends that I never knew I needed. San Joaquin Valley College isn’t just a school, it’s an entire support system.”

We are proud of their success and excited as they take the next step in their journeys.