AACC's Graduation Filled with Emotions, Laughs

More than 2,000 graduates received degrees and certificates at the 51st graduation at Anne Arundel Community College's Arnold campus. 

The keynote speaker was Lieutenant Gov. Anthony Brown, who recounted stories of his childhood and gave advice to those who would graduate: travel, don't be afraid to fail, and life is short, so live well.

Class valedictorian, Michelle DeSanctis, 30, of Bowie, held up cue cards for the audience during her speech as a way to releive her nervousness, she said. If she made a joke, she'd hold up "laugh." Retell a story of achievement? "Clap."

AACC President Dawn Lindsay called DeSanctis the poster child for one of AACC's strengths—drawing adults back into the educational institute. DeSanctis dropped out of college, and said it became her biggest regret.

The valedictorian, a native of Maryland, said she felt like an outsider before coming to AACC. But while at the community college, she said she found a home, and the inspiration to choose her own path in life. DeSanctis will go on to the University of Maryland in College Park to continue her training in becoming a teacher.

"This school and all of you here today are what made Maryland my home," said DeSanctis. "We are one big family."

The presidential scholar was William Patrick Moynihan, 25, of Arnold. The scholar is the student with the highest grade-point-average who earned his degree within a two-year period.

Student marshals included:

• Amy Michelle Avergas of Millersville
• Roni M. Coleman of Pasadena
• Yoeldi Irizarry of Odenton
• Marcelle Y. Lee, of Severna Park
• Hanna Mukhina of Annapolis
• Bradley Pfeffer of Glen Burnie
• Valeree A. Tolios of Severn
• Michelle L. Triplett of Glen Burnie
• Peter B, Veres of Odenton

Congratulations to all graduates!