Happy tears

There is so much going on at TCC. Things are definitely hopping around here, and I’m not referring to the approaching Easter weekend.

One of the most exciting things that is coming up has to be, of course, graduation! This year’s TCC graduation is May 6 at the ORU Mabee Center, and the keynote speaker is Cherokee Principal Chief Chad Smith. I am very much looking forward to hearing this inspirational man encourage TCC’s newest grads at the commencement ceremony.

Graduation is always an emotional time for the graduates and their families. But it’s also emotional for TCC employees. Faculty are watching their students achieve milestones and staff are reflecting on the previous year of how they helped students reach their goals. It’s always fun to see everyone's happy tears flowing.

And, I’m never disappointed by the diversity of people at TCC’s graduation. Young mothers with their children in bright-colored, formal clothes; 20-year-old men posing with their parents in the lobby; grandparents in caps and gowns holding their young grandchildren’s hands; and international students from across the globe having photos taken with Oklahoma natives. It’s something to see.

Come to the TCC graduation. You will be inspired, and you may even shed a tear.

FYI--Several activities are going on next week. On Monday, I’ll be attending the African American male graduation party at the Northeast Campus, Steps for Success on Thursday at the Education Outreach Center and the Nursing anniversary on Friday at the Metro Campus. Going to be a busy week!