(Bradenton, Fla., Dec. 10, 2024) — State College of Florida, Manatee-Sarasota (SCF) awarded more than 936 degrees and certificates to graduates on Friday, Dec. 6. An informal grad walk ceremony was held in the morning at SCF Studio for the Performing Arts, and two formal commencement ceremonies took place in the afternoon and evening at the SCF Neel Performing Arts Center. The graduates completed their credentials in the Summer 2024 and Fall 2024 terms and earned 536 associate in arts (AA) degrees, 221 associate in science (AS) degrees, 140 bachelor’s degrees and 38 workforce certificates. A combined 246 graduates participated in the three events.

Gia Francesca Goldflam gave an address after receiving the Outstanding Graduate Award from Todd Fritch, Ph.D., executive vice president and provost. Goldflam graduated with her AA degree and a 3.88 grade point average (GPA). She plans to transfer to the University of South Florida, where she wants to pursue a double major in psychology and criminology, earn her bachelor’s degree, and become a criminal psychologist to help people in need.

SCF President Tommy Gregory, J.D. delivered his remarks after being introduced by Outstanding Graduate Award finalists, Dakota May-Grace Duffina and Tanner Stephens. As a first-generation college student, Duffina graduated with her AA degree and a 3.54 GPA. She plans to transfer to the University of South Florida, where she wants to pursue a bachelor’s degree in business and a minor in marketing. Stephens graduated with his AA degree and a 3.74 GPA. As a long-time musician, he plans to transfer to Florida State University School of Music, where he wants to pursue bachelor’s degrees in jazz performance and composition.

Katy Wallis, associate professor of natural science and the President’s Faculty Excellence Award recipient, gave the keynote address. The graduate names were called by Robin Rogers, associate professor of language and literature; Marcus Lindemann, instructor of natural science; Nicolette Mason, associate professor of language and literature; and David Brenneman-Sandridge, instructor of natural science. James Condor, Ph.D., professor of mathematics, served as mace bearer, Dr. Fritch presented the graduates, and Frank Brunner, a chaplain of the Campus Ministry, delivered the invocations.

The SCF Chamber Choir performed the National Anthem.