Yavapai College will hold its Spring commencement ceremonies for the Verde Valley area on Saturday, May 6, 2023, at the Sedona Performing Arts Center.
Two ceremonies will be held, with degree recipients attending at 9:00 a.m. and certificate recipients at 12:00 p.m.
Nearly 100 graduates who either completed their degree or certificate in fall 2022 or who are on track to complete in spring 2023 or summer 2023 are expected to attend.
Overall, 620 YC students are on track to complete 807 degrees and certificates this spring. Additionally, 448 students completed 544 degrees and certificates last fall.
Mr. Ekklesia Breed, R.N., Verde Valley Medical Center ICU, 2022-23 Yavapai College Alumnus of the Year, will address the graduates and guests as the keynote speaker for the 9:00 a.m. ceremony.
Mrs. Amanda Vivanco, B.S.N., Director of Nursing, Haven Health Sedona, 2022-23 Yavapai College Alumna of the Year, will address the graduates and guests as the keynote speaker for the 12:00 p.m. ceremony.
Other speakers include Ms. Tina Luffman, Yavapai College English Professor, and graduating student Ms. Cheyene Gabbard.
Students and parents are encouraged to use the hashtag #YCGradJoy on social media to share their photos and celebrate with the college.
Live streaming of the ceremonies will be available at yc.edu.
Keynote Speakers
9:00 a.m. Ceremony
Mr. Ekklesia Breed, R.N. Ekklesia had a strong aspiration to work in healthcare for many years, and he longed to be an innovator in this field. After exploring various avenues, he discovered his true calling. Yavapai College provided him with the opportunity to pursue his goals and become a leader in healthcare. Thanks to the College’s support, he is now equipped with the necessary knowledge and skills to make a meaningful impact in the lives of others. Ekklesia is grateful for the chance to pursue his passion and to lead others in providing high-quality care.
12:00 p.m. Ceremony
Mrs. Amanda Vivanco, B.S.N. Amanda began her journey as an LPN eight years ago and quickly realized that caring for others was her true calling. Becoming a registered nurse was no easy feat. Five years ago, she stumbled upon Yavapai College and decided to uproot her entire life to attend. Looking back, it was one of the best choices she’s made. Yavapai College played a significant role in helping her achieve her goals. Thanks to the College’s support, Amanda now has the opportunity to serve her community and pursue her passion for nursing alongside her husband. They both feel grateful for the chance to work together doing what they love in a place they call home.
Faculty Speaker
Ms. Tina Luffman, English department faculty, first began teaching at Yavapai College in June of 2002. She has also taught Student Success Skills, Reading and Writing courses; she previously has worked as the Learning Center Coordinator and as a part-time academic advisor and instructor for the Adult Basic Education program. Tina has lived in the Verde Valley area since 1982. She received her Bacehlor’s degree and her Master’s degree from Northern Arizona University. Her husband Mark has taught CNT and CSA classes at Yavapai College for over 30 years, and all four of her children have taken classes here, worked on campus, or both.
Student Speaker
Ms. Cheyene Gabbard is graduating with the Associate of Applied Science in Nursing degree. She is a first-generation college student and a military veteran. Cheyene’s future plans include earning a Bachelor of Science in Nursing and to become a Nurse Practitioner. Cheyene intends to make a positive impact in the health care system.
