TSTC honors spring graduates with virtual celebration

Texas State Technical College honored 337 candidates for graduation during a spring virtual commencement celebration last month.

TSTC Chancellor and CEO Mike Reeser celebrated the graduates’ accomplishments with a video message.

“Throughout your time at TSTC, you strengthened yourself with the skills needed to make your life better and for those that matter most to you,” Reeser said.

Cledia Hernandez, TSTC’s provost in Harlingen, said graduates are ready for the next stage of their careers.

“You are fully trained and ready to go into our workforce. We know a lot of hard work and dedication went into that,” she said of the college experience. “Now, go out and impact the world.”

Many of the graduates thanked families, friends and instructors with messages posted on social media following the virtual celebration.

“I just want to take the time to thank God, my mom, my brothers and my friend Cynthia for believing in me to get to where I am right now. The path will be long, but you will eventually get to where you want,” said Evelyn Davila, who earned an Associate of Applied Science degree in Education and Training.

Abigail Cortez, who received an Associate of Science degree in Biology, said several people supported her during college.

“Thank you to my family and parents for supporting me, day in and day out, during this chapter of my life. I am beyond grateful for having such a strong support system throughout my journey,” she said. “This is just the beginning of what is yet to come, and I cannot wait to achieve it all.”

Arick Ortiz also said he had a strong support system while attending TSTC.

“I’d like to thank my wife for her endless support, and our kids who keep us motivated to become better people every day,” said Ortiz, who earned an Associate of Applied Science degree in Building Construction Technology.

Before the virtual celebration, graduates could pick up a graduation “swag bag” that included a TSTC diploma cover, travel mug and face mask.

Catherine Guardodo, who earned an Associate of Applied Science degree in Business Management Technology, said her degree is just the beginning for her and other graduates.
“This is only just the beginning of my career, and I am ready for the next stage,” she said.

For more information, visit tstc.edu.