Two students share their Macomb experience of success during virtual ceremony

Macomb Community College is celebrating its 106^th commencement with a virtual ceremony, which is available for viewing beginning May 6 at www.macomb.edu/future-students/campus-life/student-life/index.html. The college awarded approximately 1,300 associate degrees for the 2022 winter semester, with 266 students participating in the virtual ceremony.

 “Our graduates have embraced the process of growing, discovering new concepts, worlds and possibilities, and connecting with new resources, tools and opportunities,” said James O. Sawyer IV, president of Macomb Community College when addressing the graduates and their families. “Earning a college degree opens an important new door to the rest of your life.” 

 Two of the students graduating shared their stories of change and personal success at Macomb during the ceremony.

 “Twenty years ago, I started this journey, and my optimism was at an all-time high. When I was younger, my opportunities seemed endless, and my career path was fluctuating but hopeful,” said Sarah Johnson, 37, of St. Clair Shores. “While sitting down to write this, I realized time might change chronologically, but our hopes and dreams are unwavering.”

 Johnson, who earned her associate degree in general studies, plans to transfer to Oakland University this fall to pursue a bachelor’s degree in history and aspires to work at the Charles H. Wright Museum of African American History.

 Grace Perrin, 22, of Sterling Heights, came straight to Macomb without any experience in a formal classroom setting after being home-schooled from kindergarten through high school. While graduating with an associate degree in IT programming, Perrin’s career plans have changed after her Macomb experience.

 “So, what can my story teach you? If I were to give you one piece of advice, it would be to pursue your passions, no matter how ludicrous they may sound. Life is too short to take the “easy” route when that route only brings you stress and anxiety,” said Perrin in her commencement speech.

 Perrin now plans to transfer to Wayne State University to earn a bachelor’s degree in computer science, before pursuing a master’s degree and doctorate in mathematics so she can return to Macomb as a professor and teach calculus.

About Macomb Community College

Macomb Community College (www.macomb.edu) is one of the nation’s leading community colleges. Macomb nationally ranks in the top two percent in the number of associate degrees awarded by community colleges and is one of the largest grantors of associate degrees in Michigan. The college’s comprehensive educational programming includes pre-collegiate experiences, university transfer and career preparation programs, bachelor-degree completion and graduate degree programs, workforce training, professional education and certification, and continuing education and enrichment opportunities.

Media contact: Sean M. Patrick 586.445.7271  patricks28@macomb.edu