A record number of degrees and certificates will be awarded this spring at Austin Community College District (ACC), where more than 3,000 students are set to march across the stage. ACC has invited these graduates to its spring commencement ceremony to be held on May 17 at the H-E-B Center at Cedar Park.

The surge in graduates this year adds to the institution's grand tally, with an unprecedented academic year total of over 6,700—both spring and fall ceremonies. ACC Chancellor Dr. Russell Lowery-Hart celebrates this momentous uptick, stating, "I am encouraged by the success and admire our students’ strength, brilliance, and perseverance to get here," according to a statement obtained by the ACC newsroom.

Reflecting on this pivotal moment, Lowery-Hart added, "The future of learning and workforce is at a community college because we provide the skills you need to get a career and earn a family-sustaining wage." The 2024 commencement not only represents a season of new beginnings for graduates but also marks a historic milestone for the college—its 50th graduation anniversary since the first ceremony back in May 1974.

This year's graduation proceedings are not limited to associate and bachelor's degrees; they extend to recognitions of workforce certificates and high school equivalency achievements. Beyond the overarching commencement, ACC will also spotlight students from various specialized programs through a series of ceremonies leading up to the main event. Notably, the 9th Annual 'Celebración' will honor graduates on May 2 at the Austin PBS | ACC Highland location, and the BRASS Celebration will take place the following day at the Truth, Racial Healing & Transformation Center.

Graduates from programs like Phlebotomy, Pharmacy Technician, Dental Hygiene, and Nursing will each have their own time to shine, with individual events scheduled between May 8 and May 15. Information on the aforementioned events and the main commencement can be found on ACC's official newsroom website.