Imperial Valley College Holds Spring and Summer 2026 Commencement Ceremony
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Imperial Valley College held its Spring and Summer 2026 commencement ceremony on June 13, recognizing 1,019 graduates, the majority of them graduating with honors.
Whether they enrolled directly after high school, transitioned from military service, returned to the classroom after years away, or pursued higher education through a different path, students reached the milestone of earning a degree despite the challenges and obstacles they encountered along the way.
The graduating cohort ranged in age from 17 to 70. Women represented 59% of graduates. College data also indicated that 70% of graduates completed their programs with honors or academic distinction.
Imperial Valley College Superintendent/President Dr. Lennor Johnson told the Class of 2026 that their achievement marked the culmination of years of hard work, sacrifice, and perseverance. Speaking during commencement, Johnson said earning a degree was not the result of a single moment or opportunity, but the outcome of countless decisions made over time.
“Graduation is among the most important milestones in a person’s life,” Johnson said. “It represents years of hard work and dedication.”
Drawing on guidance his mother gave him as a young man, Johnson told graduates, “You are the sum of all your decisions.” He said the lives people build are shaped by the choices they make, the habits they form, the opportunities they pursue, and their ability to persevere through challenges.
“When I look at you today, I don’t see degrees or diplomas. I see a collection of decisions,” Johnson said, referencing students’ choices to enroll in college, attend classes while tired, study despite competing responsibilities, and continue their education when life became difficult.
Johnson acknowledged the sacrifices many students made while pursuing their education, including balancing work, family responsibilities, and financial pressures. He noted that some attended classes after full work shifts, while others studied after putting their children to sleep.
“You chose your future over comfort, you chose opportunity over convenience, and growth over excuses,” Johnson said. “Today, those decisions have paid off.”
While celebrating graduates’ accomplishments, Johnson reminded them that commencement represents the beginning of a new chapter rather than the end of their journey. He encouraged them to continue learning, growing, and serving others as they move forward.
“As you leave here today, remember the lesson my mother taught me years ago: You are the sum total of all your decisions,” Johnson said. “Choose boldly, work hard, stay humble, and continue making decisions that build the future you deserve.”
Johnson concluded by congratulating the graduates and urging them to never stop believing in what is possible.
Imperial Valley College Board President Erik Ortega also congratulated the Class of 2026, describing commencement as a celebration of perseverance, dedication, and achievement. Speaking on behalf of the Board of Trustees, Ortega said, “It is my honor and privilege to congratulate the Class of 2026 on this remarkable achievement.” He noted that the milestone reflected years of effort and determination, as students balanced responsibilities, overcame challenges, and remained committed to their academic goals. “Earning your degree is not just the completion of your program; it is the beginning of new opportunities,” Ortega said, adding that graduates are now prepared for transfer, workforce entry, or career advancement. He encouraged them to recognize the broader impact of their success, saying it strengthens the community and inspires future generations. “As you cross this stage, know that you carry with you not only your degree, but also the distinction of being a graduate of one of the most outstanding community colleges in the nation,” Ortega said.
The ceremony marked the completion of academic requirements for students advancing to four-year institutions, entering the workforce, or pursuing additional training; for many, it represents a new beginning.
