Madison Reporter

On May 10, hundreds of Madison College graduates celebrated their achievements at the Spring Commencement ceremony. The attendees included first-generation students, returning students, parents who balanced family life with their studies, and international students. More than 750 graduates participated in the ceremony held at the Alliant Energy Center. The venue was filled nearly to capacity with friends and families cheering on the graduates and displaying congratulatory signs.

Two students from the Class of 2024, Monica Caldwell and Leslie Jump, were chosen to address their fellow graduates. Both are first-generation Latinx immigrants who faced additional challenges when the pandemic hit, including navigating a new culture and learning environment. Caldwell and Jump expressed that through perseverance and support from family and friends, they were able to graduate.

"Our journey to this state has been filled with challenges, resilience, and unwavering determination," Jump shared with her fellow graduates. Caldwell acknowledged the collaboration between Madison College and Centro Hispano for keeping her on track towards graduation. "It was that moment to become part of the virtual world and continue our dream, keeping our noses to the grindstone," Caldwell said. "With our perseverance and support of our family and friends who patiently understood that each weekend was to do homework and not party, we stand before you today as a testament to the strength and power of the human spirit that si se puede-yes we can!"

Jump encouraged her peers by saying: “The experiences we’ve shared and the knowledge we’ve gained have not only enriched us but also prepared us for all the challenges that lie ahead,” she told the crowd. “As we step into the future, let’s carry forward the spirit of learning and exploration."

Among many stories highlighted during Friday's commencement was Max Richard's achievement as he became a third-generation graduate from Madison College’s Diesel Program. His father Ryan described it as a proud moment to see his son graduate in the same trade as him.

President Jack Daniels, who is set to retire this December, said presiding over the 22 graduations has been his best time at the college. He encouraged the Class of 2024 graduates to move forward with their possibilities. "Each of you has a unique journey that brought you here tonight. That journey is shaped and will continue to be shaped by your beliefs, life experiences, and lifelong learning opportunities that you take advantage of," he said.