Grossmont and Cuyamaca colleges awarded more than 6,340 degrees and certificates to nearly 2,400 graduates in early June, marking a nearly 20% increase over 2024.
More than 900 graduates participated in commencement ceremonies. Over 890 students graduated with honors, earning a GPA of 3.5 or higher, and nearly 60 students achieved a 4.0 GPA.
The colleges awarded more than 1,400 associate degrees for transfer. Students are transferring to universities including UC Berkeley, UCLA, UC San Diego, CSU San Marcos and the University of San Diego. Both colleges continue to be among the top transfer institutions to San Diego State University.
“Every year, as I watch our graduates cross the stage while being cheered on by family and friends, I’m reminded how important our colleges are to the region,” stated Chancellor Dr. Lynn Ceresino Neault. “The students and our employees are all so committed to student success, and thousands of students now have a brighter future because they have earned a degree or certificate from Grossmont or Cuyamaca College.”
Cuyamaca College student speaker John Hallock said courtroom dramas like Suits inspired him to pursue a career in law. After facing financial aid challenges at a four-year university, he enrolled at Cuyamaca, where he majored in psychology. Hallock said his professors challenged him to explore new perspectives and credited the college’s resources for supporting his academic journey.
Grossmont College student speaker Remy Berman, a 44-year-old single mother, shared her path from earning a GED to graduating with a 3.7 GPA. Berman left school without a diploma and later earned an associate degree in veterinary technology. At Grossmont, she received the Director’s Award for Perseverance and plans to pursue a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice at San Diego State University, with a goal of attending law school. Her speech received a standing ovation.
