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Pacific Oaks College recently celebrated its 62nd commencement ceremony on May 14 at the Pasadena Civic Auditorium. The College welcomed 272 graduates in the fields of education, human development, cultural and family psychology, social work, business, and organizational leadership & management.
Due to the COVID-19 pandemic and distance learning in certain degree programs, some graduates saw each other in-person for the first time at the ceremony.
In his welcome, Dr. Jack Paduntin, president of Pacific Oaks College & Children’s School, said “Every student who graduates today should be considered a role model. They have worked very hard to advance their goals while balancing a career, family, and experiencing the pandemic. They did not give up.”
“When I reflect on the contributions you have made to our community, and on the commitment that you have to Pacific Oaks’ values of social justice, diversity, inclusion, and respect, I am optimistic about the future of our institution, country, and global community,” said President Paduntin.
Nearly two-thirds of Pacific Oaks’ students are first generation students. The average PO student is a 38-year old adult learner returning to college to complete their undergraduate or graduate degree. Pacific Oaks has a long history of serving students of color and is known for its progressive approach to teaching and learning. The College is recognized as a minority-serving institution and Hispanic-Serving Institution by the United States Department of Education. Over 50% of the PO student population identify as Hispanic or Latinx.
Veteran educator and activist Dr. César A. Cruz was the keynote speaker at the commencement ceremony. He currently oversees the Homies Empowerment Program, a community program serving gang-involved youth in Oakland, California.
During his speech, Dr. Cruz lit a palo santo, or holy wood, in honor and gratitude of the graduates’ family history and journey. Cruz touched upon his own immigrant story, from his journey from Mexico to South L.A. with his mother and grandmother, to the deportation of his mother, to finding his way through his struggles and success in education. Cruz provided space for the audience to reflect on their ancestors and family who paved the way for many immigrant and first-generation students, while also encouraging graduates to acknowledge their struggles and triumphs.
In his remarks, Cruz stated “You will need to remind yourself of this moment… Amidst all odds, you stood up. And are standing up for your future and making that a reality in this present. If COVID, war, inflation, and poverty couldn’t stop you, what will?”
“May you radiate your life’s purpose and find your path… May you carry your ancestors the way your ancestors have carried you for the road ahead. Don’t forget to shine your light. Even if darkness would seek to cloud your judgment. Even just one bit of your light will always illuminate the way,” concluded Dr. Cruz.
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