JJC Celebrates 2023 Graduates with Traditional Ceremony Format

Joliet Junior College will return to the traditional single graduation ceremony format for the May 2023 event. The college will celebrate the commencement of 557 graduates during the Friday, May 19 ceremony which begins at 6 p.m. in the Event Center at Main Campus, 1215 Houbolt Road. 

“There is excitement building around campus for graduation day this year,” said Dean of Enrollment Management Bob Morris. “For the first time since 2019 we will be able to celebrate the accomplishments of all of our graduates in one ceremony. Students will not have to worry whether or not they will attend the same ceremony as their friends. The entire graduating class will finally be celebrating together as one!”

The ceremony begins at 6 p.m. in the Event Center. Additional details are available on the graduation page. 

Tammy Miller, professor in the agriculture, horticultural and veterinary services department, and Andrea Barron, member of the class of 2023, will address the audience as the faculty and student commencement speakers, respectively. The college will also recognize Sydney and Emily Reppy, joint recipients of the Student Service Recognition award, for their involvement on campus and in the community. 

This year also marks Dr. Namuo’s first JJC graduation ceremony as the 10th president of the college. Like many students this time of year, he is reflecting on his time at the college leading up to this point.
 
“I have said before, the significance of serving as the president of the nation’s very first community college is something I think about often,” said Namuo. “I am especially reflecting on that fact as we prepare for graduation. More than 500 students will celebrate their achievement and call JJC their home for decades to come. The campus community is working hard to give the class of 2023 the ceremonious recognition their hard work deserves.” 

*This article was updated on May 9, 2023 

For media inquiries, please contact Communications & Media Manager, Katie Smith, at katherine.smith@jjc.edu or by phone at 815-280-2844.