Harford Community College held its Sixty-Sixth Annual Commencement on Thursday, May 23, 2024. Two ceremonies were held this year in the APG Federal Credit Union Arena at the College. The 10 AM ceremony was for graduates of the Arts and Humanities and the Behavioral and Social Sciences divisions, and the 2 PM ceremony was for graduates of the Business and Applied Technology, Nursing and Allied Health Professions, and Science, Technology, Engineering and Math divisions. In traditional cap and gown ceremonies, graduates of the Class of 2024 received an associate degree and/or certificate at the events.
Professor James M. McFarland (Faculty Marshall) led the processional at the 10 AM ceremony along with Professor Colleen M. Webster (Student Marshall). Professor Tami Imbierowicz (Faculty Marshall) led the processional at the 2 PM ceremony along with Assistant Professor Michele L. Catterton. Student Soloist Rue Echegaray sang “The National Anthem.” Both ceremonies began with a welcome from Dr. Theresa B. Felder, President of Harford Community College. Richard P. Streett III, DVM, Chair of the Harford Community College Board of Trustees, offered greetings.
Dr. Diane Ryan, Vice President for Academic Affairs, presented the candidates for graduation and Dr. Felder conferred the degrees and certificates. Harford’s Class of 2024 includes August and December 2023 graduates and May and August 2024 candidates for graduation.
Xiomara Bradden delivered the Student Graduate Address at the 10 AM ceremony. Xiomara, a recent graduate of Harford Community College with an associate degree in Political Science and International Relations, is preparing for the next chapter of her academic journey at the University of Maryland. Holding memberships in Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society, as well as serving as president of the student multicultural club and vice president of UNICEF, Xiomara has showcased remarkable leadership and dedication to fostering diversity and addressing global issues. Xiomara’s commitment to service was evident during her participation in the Alternative Spring Break trip to the Florida Keys, where she actively engaged in various volunteer activities. Xiomara’s roles as a social media ambassador, fitness center staff, and sports announcer highlight her versatility and dedication to both campus and community. With her drive, leadership, and unwavering dedication, Xiomara stands as a deserving candidate for Commencement honors.
Alaki Wellington delivered the Student Graduate Address at the 2 PM ceremony. Alaki completed an associate degree majoring in Psychology, and will be transferring to Towson University in the fall. Alaki is a member of the Honor’s Program and Psi Beta Honor Society and served as treasurer of the Psi Beta Psychology Club. She was also a peer mentor with My College Success Network and volunteered in community organizations that serve to bridge social inequality issues such as Project Connect. Alaki was also vice president to a new club at Harford – Inspirational Gems. She enjoys meeting people and serving in the community.
Olivia Borkowski-Johnson was presented with the Outstanding Student Leadership Award from Dr. Jacqueline S. Jackson, Vice President for Student Success. The award recognizes a student who has earned a minimum GPA of 3.0 and has made significant overall contributions to the College and community where personal time, effort, and dedication are evident.
Olivia, a Nursing major who has completed an associate degree, will be transferring to Towson University in Northeastern Maryland this fall. She has served as President of the Rho Beta Chapter of Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society for two years. Through her work with Phi Theta Kappa, Olivia and the other officers of PTK have planned and completed multiple service-learning projects in the community. She has also been an active participant in the Office of Student Life, completing the Emerging Leaders program, Leaders in Action program, and Student Wellness Ambassador program during her time at Harford. Olivia plans to pursue a bachelor’s degree while working as a Registered Nurse at Upper Chesapeake Medical Center.
Eric T. Rebbert, Chair of the Harford Community College Foundation Board of Directors, gave the Alumni Welcome. He offered congratulations from the Foundation and welcomed the graduates to the alumni body of over 23,000 degreed prior Harford graduates. He urged the new alumni to stay connected and involved with the College and urged them to showcase Harford Community College and the campus as only proud alumni can.
Dr. Felder presented Anthony C. Comes with the 2024 Distinguished Alumni Award. The award honors the achievements of former students who have attained outstanding success in their chosen profession, demonstrated a commitment to the community, and maintained an interest in and service to Harford Community College.
