Daisy Lynn Andrew Quitugua, who completed her associate degree program in business management, is a young mother who wants to pursue her education to ensure a bright future for her daughter.
She and her family, including her father, local historian Noel Quitugua, have decided to settle in the U.S.
“I would have stay longer if there’s an opportunity here but I have made up my mind and will leave the island in June,” a teary eyed Daisy Quitugua said.
She urges high school graduates to enroll at NMC.
“It is the best place,” she added.
Her father said he was very proud of his daughter.
“Education is never too late for anyone,” he said. “And I just want people to understand that no matter where you are and what you are education is very important. I do believe that one of the things that should not be wasted in your entire life is your brain. To waste it is one of the worst things you could ever do.”
At the jam-packed Marianas High School gymnasium, parents, instructors, college administrators and the community joined the graduates in an almost three-hour ceremony.
Education Commissioner Rita A. Sablan delivered an inspiring message on the theme: “Cherish Yesterday, Dream Tomorrow, Live Today.”
NMC President Carmen Fernandez, Board of Regents Chairman Charles V. Cepeda, Academic Program and Services Dean Debra T. Cabrera and Student Services Dean Janice A. Tenorio presented the awards to the outstanding graduates.
The outstanding achievement academic awardees were Juan O. Cruz III, who finished adult high school; and Janel Pangelinan, who received a General Education Development diploma.
The Academic Achievement Award went to Nicole Deleon Guerrero Benjamin and Jan Michael Macaraeg Reyes, who both graduated summa cum laude with associate degrees in business administration and liberal arts.
The academic achievement awardees for those who completed the bachelor of science in elementary education program were Lourdes Liane Hart and Keoni Deleon Guerrero Ichihara — both graduated magna cum laude.
The Student Leadership Award went to Matthew Camacho Cabrera, associate in liberal arts; and Joaquin Ogo Kiyoshi Jr., cum laude, bachelor of science in elementary education.
In their messages, Fernandez and Cepeda reminded the students that their “graduation is a testament to the personal sacrifices, hard work, and perseverance you have persistently demonstrated through the past several years.”
They said NMC will remain committed to fostering the development of human potentials through its various academic programs and educational services.
“Your graduation today marks the beginning of many milestones in your adult life, and we encourage you to advance your personal growth through further education and continued professional development,” the NMC officials said.
