TSTC graduates begin new journey following virtual commencement

TSTC celebration included swag that grads could pick up beforehand

(ABILENE, Texas) – Texas State Technical College honored 120 candidates for graduation during a virtual commencement celebration on Thursday, April 22.

The celebration honored graduates from TSTC’s four West Texas campuses in Abilene, Breckenridge, Brownwood and Sweetwater. 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.

Andy Weaver, TSTC’s interim provost in West Texas, said graduates are ready for a new journey.

“We know that a new journey awaits you, and that’s the journey on the road to your career and profession you are seeking,” he said.

Graduates thanked several people with messages posted on social media following the virtual celebration. Many graduates thanked their families and instructors.

“Becoming a registered nurse has been a lifelong dream of mine, and I am so blessed that I am getting to add these letters behind my name,” said Ashley Watson, who received an Aof Applied Science degree in Nursing. “I want to thank everyone for sticking by my side and helping me achieve my dream. I also want to thank the instructors for believing in me and doing their best to teach us during the wild and crazy times we live in.”

Kyla Patterson, who also received an Associate of Applied Science degree in Nursing, thanked the people who helped her reach a lifelong goal.

“A huge thank you to my family, friends, and the TSTC staff for all of the support you provided to achieve my career goals. Here is to the next chapter of adventures to come,” she said.

Joshua Hernandez, who received an Associate of Applied Science degree in Electrical Power and Controls, said he is excited about his next journey.

“I’m very excited to find a job post-graduation and to get to work and start providing for myself and my family through hard work,” he said.

Brazes Bray, who received an Associate of Applied Science degree in Computer Networking and Systems Administration, thanked TSTC instructors.

“Thank you to my professors, Leo Chavez and Adrian Medrano, for giving me the guidance and encouragement to tackle this tough degree. I look forward to pursuing my passions and obtaining industry certifications on my journey ahead,” Bray said.

Yovanna Mounce said she learned the meaning of education while attending TSTC. She earned an Associate of Applied Science degree in Health Information Technology.

“I want to thank God, my family, and the entire TSTC and HIT program staff for motivating me to work hard and put my best potential forward to succeed,” she said. “Thank you for helping me to understand the value and great satisfaction of an education overall.”

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

For more information, visit tstc.edu.