Every year, hundreds of West Valley College students walk the stage to receive their diploma at the conclusion of the spring semester. In a mirthful celebration of academic achievement, students reflect on their scholarly journey and welcome new beginnings as they prepare to embark on a novel path.
While commencement is usually held on a Thursday, this year it will be celebrated on Wednesday, May 21. In celebration of West Valley’s 60th Anniversary, the event will take place at the Mountain Winery in Saratoga, rather than at the San Jose Civic Center, where commencement is traditionally organized. Given the unique and mountainous location of the venue, students should plan ample travel time.
I recently spoke with Amy Nguyen, who is vice president of the Associated Students of West Valley College and is a student representative on the Commencement Committee. “Students wishing to participate can sign up online, where they can fill out a short form and a reader card,” she told me. “Additionally, students should work with their instructor if they need to schedule another time and/or date for their final examination if it occurs during Commencement,” she added.
If students are in need of commencement regalia, online orders will be available beginning April 1. Students can then pick up their purchases at one of the two Grad Fair events held by the College, on Monday, April 28, and Tuesday, May 13. They will be held between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. in the Campus Center. If students already have a cap and gown, they do not need to purchase new ones, as long as the old regalia is black.
Additionally, students will soon have the opportunity to apply for the William H. Cilker Valedictorian Award, annually granted to a graduating student who has demonstrated excellence both inside and outside of the classroom.
The registration portal and more information about the 60th Commencement Ceremony can be found at: https://www.westvalley.edu/events/graduation/index.html