Tunxis Community College marked a historic milestone on May 26 with its 50th Commencement, celebrated with remarks delivered virtually, followed by an in-person degree conferral in caps and gowns on campus the following day for the Classes of 2020 and 2021.

Approximately 590 graduates received degrees and certificates, including non-credit certificates awarded through Continuing Education and Workforce Development.

“I hope that during your time at Tunxis, you’ve gained the knowledge and critical skills necessary to lead, inspire, and positively impact your respective communities,” said Tunxis Campus CEO Darryl Reome, Ed.D., as he congratulated graduates virtually, who span in age from 18 to 61. “As we look to the future, I am confident that your education will serve you well as you move forward in your academic pursuits and professional careers.”

Dr. James Lombella, North-West regional president of the Connecticut Community Colleges, Dr. Jane Gates, interim president of the Connecticut State Colleges & Universities, and Matt Fleury, chair of the Board of Regents, were among other college and state officials who addressed the Class of 2021 with recorded remarks congratulating graduates, available at tunxis.edu/classof2021.The site also recognizes Class of 2021 graduate candidates by name with photos, and features a commemorative 50th Commencement video with historic photos and faculty greetings.

Valedictorian Emma James Burke noted that community colleges are transformative institutions that bridge equity gaps and afford more life chances. “We’ve all accomplished so much under circumstances unprecedented in our lifetimes,” said Burke, who completed the majority of her studies online during the pandemic and received an associate in arts degree in CSCU transfer: sociology studies. Salutatorian Michael Anthony Lonergan, who received an associate in science degree in general studies, also delivered virtual remarks available on the commencement page, and is one of several generations in his family to attend Tunxis.

Since the first graduation in 1972, approximately 24,347 credit and noncredit graduates have been awarded degrees and certificates from Tunxis Community College.

Tunxis offers over 70 associate degrees and certificates, providing critical thinking and problem-solving skills that prepare students for transfer to bachelor’s degree programs and employment in areas with industry need. Located in Farmington, more than 6,000 students enroll in credit and continuing education programs at Tunxis each semester. For more information, visit the Tunxis website at tunxis.edu.

Photos can be viewed/downloaded at http://ow.ly/8dkc50F0y4V