El Dorado County (June 23, 2024) – Lake Tahoe Community College to Celebrate Milestone Commencement Ceremony
SOUTH LAKE TAHOE, Calif. – Lake Tahoe Community College (LTCC) is set to celebrate its annual Commencement Ceremony on Friday, June 28, at 6 p.m. on the Coyote Athletic Field. The event will feature keynote speaker Michele Siqueiros, a distinguished leader in higher education policy, known for her transformative impact on California’s educational landscape.
Michele Siqueiros, president of the Campaign for College Opportunity, has dedicated over 20 years to advancing higher education in California. Under her leadership, the organization has become a formidable force, raising over $35 million and securing crucial legislative victories. Her efforts have notably streamlined community college transfer processes, improved financial aid access, and enriched the educational experiences of countless students.
This year’s ceremony will honor the hard-earned achievements of LTCC’s graduates, many of whom are first-generation college students. With record-high enrollment, LTCC is serving more students than ever, a testament to its growing influence and commitment to education.
“We are incredibly proud of our graduates’ accomplishments and their resilience,” said LTCC President Jeff DeFranco. “Our commencement ceremony is a momentous occasion that honors the hard work and dedication of our students and the support of their friends and families. We invite the public to join us in celebrating this significant milestone.”
The college’s dedication to enhancing the graduation experience is reflected in its increased resource allocation. Since 2014, the number of graduates participating in the ceremony has more than doubled. This surge is a result of LTCC’s intensified focus on degree and certificate completion, coupled with a vibrant, inclusive student culture. To accommodate this growth and ensure a memorable event, LTCC has invested in rented seating, large projector screens, and extensive live-streaming options in both English and Spanish, complete with closed captioning.
“We want this event to be as inclusive as possible for both graduates and their families, and we believe that utilizing this technology during the event helps us achieve that goal,” President DeFranco emphasized.
Adding to the festivities, professional photographers will be on hand to capture the special moments. Each graduate will have their photo taken as they cross the stage, along with a portrait to commemorate the day. This thoughtful addition ensures that all graduates and their families can cherish and share these memories, regardless of their location.
As LTCC prepares for this landmark event, the community is invited to join in celebrating the achievements of the Class of 2024, marking a significant milestone in the lives of these dedicated students and their supportive families.
ABOUT Michele Siqueiros: Champion of Higher Education
Michele Siqueiros is a renowned executive leader, nonprofit strategist, and policy advocate who has significantly influenced higher education in California. Serving as the president of the Campaign for College Opportunity for over 20 years, Siqueiros has dedicated her career to making higher education accessible and equitable for all students.
Under her leadership, the Campaign for College Opportunity has become a powerful organization that has raised over $35 million and achieved numerous legislative victories aimed at improving the higher education system in California. Siqueiros’ strategic efforts have focused on creating clearer pathways for community college transfers, enhancing financial aid accessibility, and improving the overall educational experience for thousands of students across the state.
Siqueiros’ work is characterized by a deep commitment to social justice and educational equity. She has been instrumental in driving policy changes that support underrepresented and first-generation college students, ensuring they have the resources and opportunities needed to succeed. Her influence extends beyond policy advocacy; she is a sought-after speaker and thought leader, frequently contributing to discussions on educational reform and equity.
Her extensive contributions to higher education have earned her numerous accolades and recognition within the education community. Michele Siqueiros continues to inspire and lead efforts that promote access to quality education for all, making a lasting impact on the lives of countless students and the broader educational landscape.
