On May 22, 2025, Berkeley City College held its graduation ceremony at the Laney College Football Field, honoring the accomplishments of the Class of 2025. The ceremony celebrated the resilience and achievements of the graduates, with inspiring words from speakers and a vibrant atmosphere.
BCC President Dr. Denise Richardson congratulated the graduates and offered some final words of encouragement. "Today, you step through a portal into a world of limitless possibility," Dr. Richardson stated. "The degree or certificate that you have earned signifies more than knowledge. It's a symbol of your perseverance, your resilience, and your readiness to lead."
Peralta Community College District Chancellor Dr. Tammeil Gilkerson also addressed the graduates, highlighting their strength and growth. "Today isn't just about diplomas or ceremonies. It's about the journey that brought you here and the strength it took to bloom along the way." She connected their experience to the theme of the graduation, "Blooming in Resilience," noting, "You've shown up, stood strong, adapted, and emerged transformed."
Board of Trustees President Louis Quindlen expressed his admiration for the graduates' achievements. "My favorite part of each ceremony is hearing directly from our students. Your stories are truly inspiring. You are the future of this community, and I hope you take that obligation seriously because so much depends on where you're going to go from here."
The keynote address was delivered by Berkeley Mayor Adena Ishii, a proud BCC alumna. Reflecting on her political journey, Mayor Ishii shared, "[As] someone who was a first-generation college student [and] went to BCC, I honestly think that people had very low expectations for me." She encouraged the graduates to find a supportive community and to advocate for themselves. "Make sure that you don't let people limit your potential, because only you know what you're capable of."
Student speakers also shared their experiences and insights. ASBCC President Himali Kc reflected on her path to BCC and the importance of community. "If there's one thing I've learned during my time at Berkeley City College, it's to stop fearing regret and instead let it guide you." Valedictorian Valerie Simashkevich expressed gratitude and pride, "It is an incredible honor for me to stand here today."
The ceremony was the culmination of the hard work, dedication, and resilience of the Berkeley City College Class of 2025, marking not just an end, but a powerful beginning for these graduates as they step into their futures.
Congratulations the the Berkeley City College Class of 2025!
Click here to view the full photo gallery of the ceremony on SmugMug