McHenry County College graduates winter class of nearly 500

Almost 500 students earned associate degrees or certificates at McHenry County College’s winter graduation ceremony this month in the college gymnasium in Crystal Lake.

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Graduates celebrate their achievements at McHenry County College's Winter Commencement Ceremony on Saturday, Dec. 14, 2024. (Photo provided by McHenry County College)

The graduates – including about one-fifth of whom earned honors or high honors with GPAs of 3.5 or higher – came out of 67 different programs, according to a news release. These programs included Associate in Arts degrees, Associate in Science degrees, basic nursing assistant certificates, emergency technician certificates, firefighter basic certificates and Associate in Applied Science – occupational therapy assistant degrees.

“We truly are better off because you have been here,” MCC President Clint Gabbard told the group. Remarks also were given by student speaker Justice Peterman.

One graduate, Malisa Vanderwest, said she was inspired to return to school by her oldest daughter, who graduated from MCC in 2017, according to the release. Vanderwest earned a degree in health information management.

“I had been afraid my whole life of pursuing education,” Vanderwest said. “But although I was afraid, I found comfort at MCC immediately by finding so many ‘nontraditional’ students everywhere. I felt safe and welcomed.”