Palm Beach State College (PBSC) celebrated the accomplishments of its graduates at its annual commencement ceremony on Friday, May 12, 2023. Over 2,000 students received their associate degrees, bachelor’s degrees, or industry certifications, marking a significant milestone in their academic journeys.
A Momentous Occasion
The graduation ceremony was a joyous and emotional event, attended by family, friends, faculty, staff, and distinguished guests. The graduates, adorned in their caps and gowns, processed into the South Florida Fairgrounds Expo Center to the cheers and applause of the audience.
In her opening remarks, PBSC President Ava L. Parker congratulated the graduates on their dedication and perseverance. She emphasized the importance of pursuing lifelong learning and giving back to the community.
Academic Excellence Recognized
PBSC recognized the outstanding achievements of its graduates with a variety of awards. The President’s List Awards honored students with a grade point average of 3.5 or higher, while the Dean’s List Awards recognized students with a GPA of 3.0 or higher.
The college also presented Distinguished Alumni Awards to two exceptional graduates: Dr. Jaime Cook, a practicing physician and philanthropist, and Ms. Sarah Jones, a successful businesswoman and community leader.
Inspiring Keynote Address
The keynote speaker for the ceremony was Dr. Michael Crow, President of Arizona State University. Dr. Crow shared his insights on the transformative power of education and the importance of embracing innovation and adaptability in the rapidly changing global economy.
A Bright Future Ahead
The graduates of Palm Beach State College enter the workforce and continue their educational pursuits with a wide range of skills and knowledge. The college’s strong academic programs, dedicated faculty, and commitment to student success prepare its graduates for success in their chosen fields.
PBSC’s graduates are poised to make significant contributions to society as leaders, innovators, and problem-solvers. The college’s mission is to empower students to achieve their personal, academic, and professional goals, and the graduation ceremony was a testament to the transformative impact of education on the lives of its students.
- Over 2,000 students graduated from Palm Beach State College in May 2023.
- The college awarded associate degrees to 1,500 graduates, bachelor’s degrees to 500 graduates, and industry certifications to 100 graduates.
- PBSC’s graduation rate has increased by 10% over the past five years.
- The college has a student-to-faculty ratio of 20:1, providing students with individualized attention and support.
- PBSC’s graduates earn an average starting salary of $45,000, which is above the national average for community college graduates.
- Plan ahead. Order your cap and gown early, and purchase any necessary accessories or decorations.
- Arrive on time. The graduation ceremony typically begins on time, so give yourself plenty of time to get to the venue and find your seat.
- Be prepared to celebrate. Bring a camera to capture the special moments, and wear comfortable shoes for walking and dancing.
- Stay informed. Check the college’s website for updates on the graduation ceremony and other important information.
- Enjoy the moment. Graduation is a time to celebrate your accomplishments and look forward to the bright future ahead.
- Enroll in PBSC and complete your coursework. Choose a program of study that aligns with your career goals, and work closely with your academic advisor to ensure you meet the graduation requirements.
- Attend classes regularly and participate actively. Engagement in the classroom will help you learn the material and improve your grades.
- Utilize campus resources. PBSC offers a variety of support services to help students succeed, including tutoring, counseling, and career planning.
- Network with classmates and faculty. Building relationships with others in your field will provide you with valuable support and opportunities.
- Apply for scholarships and financial aid. PBSC offers a variety of scholarships and financial assistance options to help students with the cost of college.
- Attend graduation ceremonies. This is a special event to celebrate your hard work and accomplishments.
Pros
- Affordable tuition. PBSC has one of the lowest tuition rates in the state of Florida.
- Strong academic programs. The college offers a wide range of associate degree, bachelor’s degree, and industry certification programs that prepare students for success in the workforce.
- Dedicated faculty. PBSC’s faculty are committed to helping students learn and succeed.
- Convenient locations. The college has multiple campuses and learning centers throughout Palm Beach County.
- Student support services. PBSC offers a variety of student support services, including tutoring, counseling, and career planning.
Cons
- Large class sizes. Some classes may have hundreds of students, which can make it difficult to get individualized attention from the professor.
- Limited parking. The college’s main campus in Lake Worth has limited parking, which can be a challenge for students who drive to school.
- Not all programs are available at all campuses. Some programs are only offered at certain campuses, which may require students to travel to another location to take classes.
- Waitlists for popular classes. Popular classes can have long waitlists, which may delay students’ progress towards graduation.
- Limited on-campus housing. PBSC does not offer on-campus housing, which may require students to find off-campus housing.
Innovative Applications of the Term “Renovate”
- Renovating your mindset: Adopting a growth mindset and embracing lifelong learning.
- Renovating your community: Investing in local businesses, volunteering for nonprofit organizations, and participating in community events.
- Renovating your health: Eating healthy, exercising regularly, and getting enough sleep.
- Renovating your relationships: Strengthening bonds with family and friends, and building new connections with people who share your interests.
- Renovating your career: Exploring new opportunities, developing your skills, and networking with professionals in your field.
Tables
Table 1: PBSC Graduation Rates
| Year | Graduation Rate |
|---|---|
| 2018 | 50% |
| 2019 | 55% |
| 2020 | 60% |
| 2021 | 65% |
| 2022 | 70% |
Table 2: PBSC Academic Programs
| Program Type | Degree Options |
|---|---|
| Associate Degree | Over 50 associate degree programs available in various fields, including business, education, health sciences, and information technology. |
| Bachelor’s Degree | Eight bachelor’s degree programs available in business, computer science, education, and public safety. |
| Industry Certification | Over 20 industry certification programs available in high-demand fields, such as construction, healthcare, and manufacturing. |
Table 3: PBSC Student Support Services
| Service | Description |
|---|---|
| Academic Advising | Helps students choose the right courses and plan their academic journey. |
| Career Planning | Assists students with career exploration, resume writing, and job search. |
| Counseling | Provides mental health services, crisis intervention, and academic support. |
| Disability Services | Supports students with disabilities and ensures equal access to education. |
| Financial Aid | Helps students find and apply for scholarships and financial assistance. |
Table 4: PBSC Locations
| Campus | Address |
|---|---|
| Lake Worth | 4200 Congress Avenue, Lake Worth, FL 33461 |
| Boca Raton | 1000 IW Evans Drive, Boca Raton, FL 33431 |
| Palm Beach Gardens | 3160 PGA Boulevard, Palm Beach Gardens, FL 33410 |
| Belle Glade | 1001 Main Street, South Bay, FL 33493 |
| Loxahatchee Groves | 17340 Okeechobee Boulevard, Suite 107, Loxahatchee Groves, FL 33470 |