College of the Desert holds graduation ceremonies for classes of 2020, 2021 and 2022
College of the Desert hosted a historic graduation ceremony Wednesday evening at the Indian Wells Tennis Garden for not only the Class of 2022 but the classes of 2020 and 2021, whose ceremonies were postponed due to COVID-19 pandemic restrictions.
"Our students have demonstrated incredible resilience and perseverance during one of the most challenging times in history, and it is our pleasure to recognize their hard work,” COD Superintendent/President Martha Garcia said in a statement.
In spite of declining enrollment trends at COD, the college says the Class of 2022 is the largest graduating class in the school's history. More than 1,600 degrees and certificates were conferred on Wednesday to a record number of graduates. A student can be eligible for multiple degrees and certificates.
The college awarded 1,576 degrees and certificates in 2018-2019, the last year prior to the pandemic and the last year for which data is available on COD's website.
- 2018-2019: 1.576 degrees and certificates
- 2017-2018: 1,569 degrees and certificates
- 2016-2017: 1,232 degrees and certificates
- 2015-2016: 1,157 degrees and certificates
- 2014-2015: 1,208 degrees and certificates
After the processional, the ceremony commencement ceremony continued with the Pledge of Allegiance, led by Amaris Rose Guzman, president of the Associated Students.
Dakota Alexandra De La Torre performed the national anthem. De La Torre is receiving three associate degrees: one in kinesiology, one in social and behavioral science and one in arts, humanities and communications.
Jose Alberto Pérez Cárdenas, Assistant Professor of Mathematics, was named 2021-2022 Outstanding Faculty Member.
Keyahsia C. Jackson and Tyler Peters delivered the graduate addresses.