FVCC honors graduates during 54th commencement ceremony

Flathead Valley Community College will honor nearly 300 students at its 54th annual commencement Friday.

All graduation activities take place on the FVCC campus in Kalispell beginning at 6 p.m. to celebrate the 298 students earning 313 degrees and certificates.

Many graduates go on to pursue bachelor’s degrees and others enter the workforce in their chosen field of study, according to FVCC.

A member of the class of 2022, graduate Tara DiDomenico has earned her associate of science in nursing. She was already working as a medical assistant with previous higher education and describes the decision to return to college as difficult.

“I wanted to progress in my career but was afraid to make a big change and figure out finances,” she said. “After evaluating my options in Montana, I’m so glad I chose FVCC and that this caliber of the program was available right here in the valley.”

The smaller class sizes, sense of community and financial support at FVCC brought DiDomenico the confidence she needed to pursue further training in her career. The support systems at FVCC made a huge impact on the experience, she notes.

“The faculty is invested in your success and wants to see you succeed, and the community’s support through scholarships got me to where I am today,” she said.

DiDomenico and her fellow nursing graduates will be honored at the ASN pinning ceremony on Friday at 3 p.m. in the Arts & Technology building prior to the main graduation ceremony.

Family, friends and community members are invited to attend the ceremony.

“I plan to continue on and earn my bachelor’s degree and then a master’s in nursing, and ultimately, give back to the community that got me here,” DiDomenico said. “I couldn’t be happier that I made the leap to continue my education at FVCC, and hope to return one day as an educator.”