Mesalands grads looking to future

Twenty-eight students received their associate degrees at  Mesalands Community College commencement ceremonies Friday night.

“This is the first graduation we’re having on campus,” said president Phillip O. Barry.

A recent addition to the college, the great room is now being used for graduations and other functions.

Commencement speaker, 10th Judicial District Court Judge Don Schutte said his message to the students was about following their dreams and visions.

By accomplishing the goal of graduation, they have lived out one dream and vision, and Schutte said he wanted to encourage them in their next pursuits.

Casey Thomas, who earned her associate of arts degree, said she is looking forward to attending West Texas A&M in Canyon where she plans to study to become a teacher.

O.J. Herrera, a rodeo team member, said he was  planning to return to his home state of Oklahoma where he will finish up his next two years at Panhandle State in Goodwell, Okla.

Six of the students graduating had earned a 3.8 GPA or  higher.

Also at the commencement were students receiving certificates  in the fine arts, truck driving, pre-nursing and automotive and diesel technology programs.

Artist Kimberly Stevens of Conchas and Meade, Kan., said she had always wanted to learn about bronze casting and enjoyed her studies for her certificate.