Front Range Community College will host a record-breaking event this week by uniting graduates from all three campuses for a collective commencement celebration, the first in the school’s 56-year history. This year, the college is enhancing the ceremony to guarantee every graduate enjoys a remarkable and significant celebration on their special day.
“We’re excited to offer our students an elevated celebration at this year’s commencement ceremony,” said Gabriel Castaño, FRCC’s vice president of enrollment management and student success. “We want our graduates to have the best experience possible as we recognize their achievements.”
Breaking Down Barriers
46% of FRCC students are the first in their family to go to college. For our graduates, this academic achievement showcases how FRCC is helping break down barriers for future generations.
The college will award more than 5,000 degrees and certificates to almost 4,000 graduates for the 2023-2024 academic year. This graduating class is as diverse as the subjects they have studied at FRCC:
- Youngest graduate: 17
- Oldest graduate: 77
- 37% students of color
- Graduates from 13 countries (including the US)
- 89 students who are military veterans
- 24% eligible for federal Pell grants (students who display exceptional financial need)
Emerging Leaders
FRCC graduates are Colorado’s emerging leaders, teachers, entrepreneurs, nurses, engineers, police officers, writers, artists, politicians, auto technicians and business owners. “Our alumni will help shape and uplift our communities for generations to come,” said FRCC President Colleen Simpson, EdD.
“Whether this year’s graduates plan to pursue a career or transfer to a four-year university, there’s a world of opportunity out there for them,” she added. “As our graduates leave FRCC, they embark on a pivotal adventure—and we plan to see them off with a first-rate fanfare.”
Commencement Ceremony Details
Thursday, May 9, 2024
5:00 pm
Blue Arena
5290 Arena Cir., Loveland, CO
Meet Some of This Year’s Outstanding Grads
- Four members of the Salazar family are graduating together.
- Get to know “rockstar” student Hector Vargas.
- Read commencement speaker Melissa Chavez’s moving story of overcoming. (Coming soon!)
- Graduate Nick Shepherd on becoming a scientist.
Commencement Speaker
FRCC is thrilled to announce John Tayer, President and CEO of the Boulder Chamber, as the keynote speaker for the 2024 commencement.
“We’re excited to connect our students with accomplished leaders in Colorado’s vibrant business community.” said Lilian Clemente, executive director of strategic marketing and communications. “We want our graduates to hear the clear message that anything is possible as they pursue their dreams.”
Tayer’s leadership helps to foster economic growth and support local businesses in the Boulder area and across Colorado’s northern Front Range. His initiatives promote entrepreneurship, innovation and sustainability within the business community.
Before joining the Boulder Chamber in 2012, he held significant roles at Roche Colorado Corporation and Boulder’s City Manager’s Office, demonstrating a strong commitment to public service. “John’s uplifting demeanor and dedication to his community shine through in every interaction,” added Clemente.
Join Us!
This year’s event will feature a video livestream for individuals who may not be able to attend in person, as well as live Spanish translation and an event social media stream that will be displayed on the jumbotron at the arena.
For more information, please visit: 2024 Commencement Ceremony | Front Range Community College
