MHCC Celebrates Over 1,000 Graduates

By MHCCFor The Mountain Times

Mt. Hood Community College (MHCC) honored a remarkable class of graduates during its 2025 Commencement Ceremony on Saturday, June 14, marking the first graduating class following the college’s historic bond measure passage.

In total, MHCC awarded 967 degrees and certificates and 230 GEDs, representing a diverse and resilient group of students whose achievements span healthcare, transfer, and career-technical programs. Notably, 226 graduates earned healthcare-related degrees, underscoring the college’s growing role in meeting critical regional workforce needs.

“Each of you has faced steep grades and moments of doubt — but you kept going. That’s what resilience looks like,” said MHCC President Dr. Lisa Skari during the ceremony. “At MHCC, we know that spirit well. For 50 years, the college tried — and failed — six times to pass a bond measure to improve our campus. But we kept going. And this year, we finally made it. Thanks to the support of our community, we secured a historic win that will bring long-overdue improvements to our campus — ensuring future students have the facilities they need to thrive. Just like you, we’ve reached a summit that was years in the making.”

The celebration began at 10:00 a.m. and featured distinguished guests including Oregon State Representatives Travis Nelson and Christine Drazan.

This year’s featured student speaker, Rachel Jones, a multi-sport athlete and member of the Associated Students of MHCC, inspired attendees with her journey and plans to pursue a career in corporate law.

“By choosing to attend college, you have opened a new world of possibilities. The more you learn, the more doors you will open,” said Jones onstage. “Today we celebrate your commencement — but more importantly, we celebrate a beginning.”

Nikki Sirstad, the featured GED graduate speaker, shared her powerful story of perseverance, crediting her daughter as her inspiration to return to school. Sirstad is now pursuing a career advocating for underrepresented communities.

Since its founding in 1966, MHCC has served over one million students representing a rich diversity. Fifty-nine percent of this year’s graduates were the first in their families to attend college. Seventeen different countries were represented among the 2025 class.This year’s youngest graduate was just 16 years old, and the oldest was 69.

“One of the greatest honors in my role is witnessing the rich diversity of our student body, “ said President Skari. “Many of these students are not only scholars but working professionals. This day celebrates their resilience and dedication while welcoming them into the MHCC alumni community.”

The 2025 Commencement reflects both the legacy and future of MHCC as it continues to invest in student success and community impact.

Mt. Hood Community College (MHCC) offers a variety of unique, flexible education options to a highly diverse student body. Situated in the beautiful foothills of Mt. Hood, we empower students to accomplish short- and long-term goals with regionally unique degree programs, public classes and events, high-contact advising, and an array of resources for students’ basic needs. As a community hub for cultural, economic, recreational, and intellectual enrichment, we’re committed to advancing equity, building responsible partnerships, and supporting every student’s personal and professional growth. Visit our website to learn more: www.mhcc.edu/.