by Diana Gorostieta
Austin Community College (ACC) held an Ascender Celebración at the Eastview Campus on May 5th. This bilingual end-of-the year event celebrates students finishing their first year of college and is intended to encourage them to continue their studies and subsequently use their stole at graduation. The event was coordinated by Alejandra Polcik, Manager of Hispanic Outreach Projects, and Megan Diaz, Outreach Coordinator.
A surprise Mariachi performance kicked off the evening, embracing Latinx culture and traditions through their music. Following the performance, the keynote speaker, Dr. Johanna Moya-Frabregas, Con Mi Madre Executive Director, encouraged students to pursue their goals and dreams by sharing her personal life experiences. About 40 students from the Fall 2021- Spring 2022 cohort were recognized by name and congratulated in front of family, friends, mentors, instructors, and staff as Ruth Reinhart, Associate Vice Chancellor of Student Support Services, presented them with their Ascender graduation stole.
Susana Ramirez-Rodriguez received the 2022 Student of the Year Award in recognition of her excellence efforts, attendance, and achievements of being an outstanding ACC and ASCENDER student. Ultimately, all mentors and professors were honored for their continuous support and ability to motivate ACC students to accomplish their college and professional goals.
To finish off the Celebracion, everyone was invited to socialize and enjoy a wide variety of Mexican antojitos (appetizers).