CCBC CHANCELLOR BRINGS KEYNOTE ADDRESS TO GRADUATES

Baltimore County, Md. -- The Community College of Baltimore County (CCBC) welcomes its “nationally renowned” leader, Chancellor Irving Pressley McPhail, as the graduation speaker for its 2003 ceremony scheduled for 2 p.m. May 31 at the Retriever Activity Center at the University of Maryland Baltimore County (UMBC). More than 400 graduates are expected to participate in the ceremony.

Like the graduates, the chancellor is also celebrating a milestone of sorts –– his five-year anniversary with CCBC. Under his leadership, the college has grown into a nationally recognized, premier learning-centered institution.

“The graduation ceremony reflects the heart of CCBC’s LearningFirst mission,” said McPhail. “It’s our charge to provide students with the educational tools and resources necessary for them to reach their goals. Graduation symbolizes that the goal has been achieved. I’m extremely honored to provide our graduates with their departing words.”

A new twist to this year’s graduation ceremony is the recognition of student’s receiving certificates. Even though they will not walk in the processional or wear caps and gowns, the chancellor will officially recognize them during the ceremony.

“Many of our students come to CCBC to update their skills or to get certificates in special areas,” said McPhail. “Even though those students aren’t seeking degrees, they’ve accomplished their educational objective. It’s important that we recognize all levels of academic accomplishment.”

A student competition led to the selection of this year’s student graduation speaker. Shavonna Rivers, a CCBC Essex student receiving her associate’s degree in General Studies, won the coveted spot after competing against 13 other CCBC student hopefuls. Speaking ability, as well as poise and confidence played a key role in the selection process.

Additional highlights for the graduation ceremony include an original music composition by CCBC Essex Music department Chairman William Watson. Titled “Look to this Day,” this original work will be sung by CCBC Essex students Jennifer Johnson and Russell Twining. The chancellor will also announce LearningFirst Medallion winners –students who have demonstrated exemplary leadership skills and service in facilitating or advancing the learning process for fellow students.

A reception for graduates immediately follows the ceremony in UMBC’s University Center. For more information, call 443-840-4822.

CCBC is one of 12 Vanguard Learning Colleges noted nationally for its commitment to student learning. CCBC is a premier, learning-centered, single college, multi-campus institution consisting of three comprehensive campuses and five extension centers in metropolitan Baltimore County, Md. CCBC serves its diverse community as a center for lifelong learning to improve the quality of life in Baltimore County and the region.