HVCC GRADS FINISH WITH UNIQUE STORIES
Senior class features students of all ages, backgrounds
TROY, N.Y. » More than 2,000 students, ranging from age 17 to 67 and representing close to 40 countries, graduated from Hudson Valley Community College Saturday afternoon at the school’s McDonough Field House.
College President Andrew J. Matonak shared stories about several graduates. Matonak explained how every student has a story to share, and he personally highlighted certain obstacles specific students had to overcome. For instance, Tyler Sims received financial aid to play football, but the Atlanta native lost his financial aid due to poor grades. Instead of giving up, Sims worked in the Capital Region, saving enough money to attend classes at Hudson Valley Community College. With a recommitment to grades, Sims earned financial aid and a spot on the football team. He’ll continue his education, playing football and attending classes at Mars Hill University. Ryan Hinkle, Matonak explained, was diagnosed with cerebral palsy at birth. Hinkle earned his associates in Adolescent Education Saturday, and he’ll continue his education at The College of St. Rose to pursue a dual degree in special and elementary education.
In addition to Matonak, Neil J. Kelleher, class of 1991, Rensselaer County Executive Steven McLaughlin and Rensselaer County Legislature Chairman Michael Stammel offered words of encouragement and congratulations to the graduates.
“You’ve shown what dedication and commitment can bring. Understand that today your possibilities and opportunities are almost limitless,” McLaughlin said. “Set high goals, strive to do your best and do not let failure or disappointment define you. Never give up, never stop
believing in yourself and never forget you are capable of great things.”
Nathanael Savasta, the student senate president, presented the class gift.
Matonak invited the families of two members of the class of 2018 who died in their last semester.
Diplomas were given to the families of Chad Michael Malarchuk and Benjamin John David Harris. Advisers shared heartfelt words of re-
membrance of each student’s impact.
A round of applause occurred as U.S. military members were asked to stand during the ceremony. Hudson Valley Community College graduated 76 self-identified military members, 18 percent of which graduated with honors.
About 82 percent of graduates are from the Capital Regoin, 33 percent from Albany County, 24 percent from Rensselaer County, 15 percent from Saratoga County and 8 percent from Schenectady.
Saturday was the 64th commencement at HVCC.