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The rendition of “Pomp and Circumstance” was played a few extra times as the Georgia Gwinnett College (GGC) May 2024 graduating class entered Gas South Arena on May 9. That was understandable considering this was the largest graduating class in the history of GGC with more than 900 diplomas awarded.

The graduates and their families filled the arena with smiles, laughter, and a few tears during a celebration that was emotional on many levels. Each reached this milestone through determination, hard work, and sacrifice.

Welcoming the Class of May 2024, GGC President Jann Joseph acknowledged the challenges they faced.

“Graduates, we know you have waited for this day for a long time, and it’s finally here. You are the first graduating class that persevered through the pandemic,” she said. “You are the resilient class of students who decided to move forward with your education despite the chaos our world faced in 2020. There were so many uncertainties, but you refused to let the negative stop you, and I commend your commitment.”

This was true for Laura Davis, who gave the graduate reflection address. She told her classmates that sacrifices must sometimes be made to move forward in life. Due to political unrest, she left her home country of Venezuela just before graduating from college. Along with her parents, she clutched a suitcase and the determination to start over, learn English, return to college and graduate. She earned her bachelor’s degree in psychology.

Commencement Speaker Representative Pedro “Pete” Marin addressed the class with words of wisdom.

“I believe in you, each of you. I am invested in your success. I need you to be greater. I need you to matter more in this world. That is your charge today,” he said. “Matter more. Be more. Do more. Dream more. Love more. Live more. Inspire more. Achieve more. Go forth with the confidence of having done something amazing. Go with our collective love and appreciation.”

Then came the moment everyone was waiting for – the awarding of diplomas. As each name was called, there were cheers from the audience. 

One name, however, brought a thunder of applause and emotions: Jimmy Cenescar. He was a heroic Georgia State Patrol trooper and GGC student who was tragically killed in the line of duty on January 28. He majored in criminal justice at GGC and was set to graduate with his bachelor’s degree today. His brother, Joel Cenescar accepted his diploma in his memory.

“It’s a bittersweet moment, but it feels good to do this for him today,” said Cenescar. “He put in the work. It has been hard, especially for my parents, but we are appreciative of the support of Georgia Gwinnett College.”

Members of the Georgia State Troopers and the Atlanta Police Department joined by the GGC Police at the event to honor his service.

Fun facts about the May 2024 graduating class:

• Total number of graduates: 908
• Number of international students: 88
• Number of student athletes:  31
• Number of military veterans: 16
• Number of countries represented (including USA): 43
• Age range of graduates: 20-68

View and download 2024 spring commencement gallery photos.