NORWALK — Cerritos College handed out more than 9,000 degrees and certificates at its 67th commencement ceremony May 29 — the highest number in the college’s history. This year marked the fourth consecutive year of record-breaking completions, reflecting a 261% increase in awards over the last decade.
The milestone included a 38% increase in associate degrees for transfer, which guarantee admission to the California State University system, providing students a direct pathway to a bachelor’s degree. By expanding this bridge to four-year institutions, Cerritos College continues to drive the social and economic mobility of its community, with bachelor’s degree holders expected to earn an average of $30,000 more per year.
Further demonstrating its commitment to equity and early access to higher education, Cerritos College’s dual enrollment program celebrated another milestone: 71 high school students earned college degrees or certificates before graduating from high school.
Student speaker Anais Gomez shared a message of perseverance with the class of 2025.
“Every one of us has worked hard to get here,” she said.
Raised by a family of strong women, Gomez began college at Mt. SAC College in Walnut, later stepping away to work full time. After the unexpected loss of her father, she returned to college with renewed purpose, enrolling at Cerritos College to study communication studies.
She joined the national honor society Phi Theta Kappa and launched a photography business. She plans to transfer to Cal State Fullerton to pursue a master’s degree and become a professor.
“We’ve proven we can overcome challenges. Now it’s time to turn those dreams into reality,” she said.
“This year’s record-breaking number of awards reflects far more than a milestone—it speaks to the resilience and aspirations of our students,” said Cerritos College President Jose Fierro. “Many of our graduates are the first in their families to attend college. Their achievements not only transform their own lives but also the lives of their families and neighbors. They are the ignition to generating true impact in our local community.”
