14230606194_e7bc2fb3f7_zSkyline College’s annual Education Graduation Celebration was held Thursday evening, May 15, at the Skyline College Child Development Center. Both Skyline College and Cañada College students completing an Early Childhood Education [ECE] or Special Education [ECSE Certificate] or ECE degree during the Summer 2013, Fall 2013 and Spring 2014 semesters were honored by noting their achievements and their future plans. The Program was opened with songs by the graduating preschoolers, followed by welcoming remarks by Skyline College ECE/EDU Program Coordinator Kate Williams Browne, Dean Don Carlson, and Vice-President Sarah Perkins.

14251026573_ed24401aaa_zInspiring keynote addresses by Senator Jerry Hill and Alumna Drea Gabriel served as bookends to announcements of each student graduate as s/he walked across the stage. Refreshments and cake were served to families, friends, faculty and graduates, accompanied by Skyline College’s Jazz Quintet. Congratulations to ECE students who have worked hard to accomplish their goals! This year, students have earned 41 Certificates [ECE, ECSE, Foundations] and 41 Degrees [ECE, AST, & High Honors]! Skyline College and Cañada College are proud of you and know that you will help to make the world a better place for children, families and educational settings here and beyond.

Special thanks to all who helped make the event success: Dave Haw of Facilities, Rick McMahon of Pacific Dining, Zack Bruno of the Music Department, Dean Linda Hayes, Val Goines & Sue Eftekhari of Cañada College, Cece Rebele & Shawna Whitney of Skyline College, and the staff of the Early Learning Child Development Center.

 Article and photos by Kate Williams Browne