WEST COVINA, Calif.—On Friday, November 20, North-West College (NWC) once again came together with its family of Colleges, Glendale Career College and Nevada Career Institute, for a virtual Commencement Ceremony to recognize the achievements of hundreds of graduates who completed their education. This marked the second virtual graduation for the College, with thousands of family members, friends, and Instructors joining the event to celebrate this significant milestone in the lives of these graduates.
“While I had hoped to congratulate these students in person as they crossed the graduation stage, I am immensely proud of their hard work,” explained NWC President Mitchell Fuerst. “They have risen above these difficult times, displaying the same courage and compassion that have guided our College for more than five decades. I could not be more proud to welcome them to our alumni family.”
Graduates represented every level of NWC’s programs, some earning diplomas, and others associate’s and bachelor’s degrees. College Team Members worked hard to ensure this Commencement would be a special occasion for the students. Graduates had the opportunity to wear their cap and gown during the ceremony, which was provided free of charge for the event. And, in addition to the official presentation of graduates, the evening also included a heartfelt message from President Fuerst.
Many of these graduates were partway through their programs when COVID-19 forced the College to move classes online in March. Undeterred, these individuals demonstrated resilience and an unwavering drive to reach their educational goals. Many students switched to a hybrid learning format over the summer as the College began its phased reopening, participating in online instruction along with hands-on training time in the College’s labs.
“These are extraordinary circumstances we are facing, but these are extraordinary individuals,” shared Fuerst. “They have met the challenges of these past many months head on, and I have no doubt they will rise above any hardships they face in the health care field as they make a difference in the lives of their communities every day.”