April 28, 2023, GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. – Grand Rapids Community College graduates were encouraged to take the skills they’ve learned and aim high when they enter the world during two ceremonies on Friday.
The college celebrated the graduation of about 1,000 students, with roughly 500 celebrating during two Friday ceremonies. The college also bestowed titles of faculty emeritus and distinguished alumni to two people who have supported education in Grand Rapids for decades.
It was also the first GRCC commencement for President Charles Lepper, who took the helm of the college in January.
Lepper noted the youngest graduate in 17 years old, and the oldest 64, with many being first generation students and others who started or restarted their education with support from state programs Michigan Reconnect and Futures for Frontliners.
“So, what comes next?” Lepper asked the graduates. “You have a degree and new skills and confidence. You have people who support you and care about you. Continue to challenge yourself. Try difficult things. Be bold. And, remember to support others along the way. Be the person others look to for support and inspiration. Make a difference. Give back. Aim high. You can do it!
Stephen Abid, a Grand Rapids Junior College graduate, was recognized as the faculty emeritus honoree.
Abid returned to teach economics at the college for 27 years, He is respected for his passion for teaching and care for his students – one ever referred to him as her “angel professor” for his efforts to help her be successful.
Olivia Margo Anderson presented with distinguished alumni honors. Anderson worked for the Grand Rapids Public Schools for 32 years, serving as an elementary teacher, high school counselor, assistant principal and elementary principal.
She retired from GRPS in 2000, and was elected to the GRCC board of trustees a year later, serving through 2014 and holding several leadership roles.
Anderson focused on inclusion and equity during her time on the board, working to ensure a life-changing education was within reach of all residents.
The ceremonies were the second to celebrate a large group of students who attended GRCC through the Grand Rapids Promise Zone., with 34 students earning degrees.
Started in 2020, the Grand Rapids Promise Zone is a “last-dollar” scholarship that covers up to 60 credit hours, including the costs of tuition, books, required course materials and any required fees associated with attending GRCC.
Dr. Lepper, who became GRCC’s 11th president, has had an extensive career in higher education with more than 25 years of leadership experience at universities and community colleges. Before being selected to head GRCC, he served as vice president for Student Affairs and Enrollment Management at Salt Lake Community College, which serves more than 60,000 students across 10 campuses.
“So many kinds of students, with something in common,” Lepper told graduates. “As of today, you are a Grand Rapids Community College graduate. What does that mean? It means you know how to work hard, solve problems, work independently and in groups. You faced challenges and learned how to overcome them. You have gained knowledge and skills that will stay with you for the rest of your life. You have gained the confidence you need to walk out of here today and face the world. Be proud of what you have accomplished, because I am proud of you.”