Grossmont and Cuyamaca colleges award more than 6,340 degrees and certificates in 2025
CONTACT: Jennifer N. Kearns, M.S.
June 11, 2025
El Cajon, CA – In early June, Grossmont and Cuyamaca colleges awarded more than 6,340 degrees and certificates to nearly 2,400 graduates, with over 900 graduates participating in commencement ceremonies. The number of degrees and certificates awarded this year is nearly 20% more than 2024.
Over 890 students graduated with honors, earning a 3.5 GPA or higher, and nearly 60 students graduated with a 4.0 GPA. Over 1,400 Associate Degrees for Transfer (ADTs) were awarded, with students transferring to a variety of four-year universities, including UC Berkeley, UCLA, CSU San Marcos, University of San Diego, and UC San Diego. Once again, both colleges are leaders in the number of students transferring to San Diego State University.
“Every year, as I watch our graduates cross the stage while being cheered on by family and friends, it reminds me how important the work is that we do here at our colleges,” stated Chancellor Dr. Lynn Ceresino Neault. “The students and our employees are all so committed to student success, and literally thousands of students now have a brighter future because they have earned a degree or certificate from Grossmont or Cuyamaca College.”
Cuyamaca College Commencement Student Speaker John Hallock was inspired by courtroom dramas like Suits, and decided to pursue a career in law. When his financial aid situation at a four-year university became too challenging, he restarted his education at Cuyamaca College.
John’s Cuyamaca College professors challenged him to open his mind to new possibilities, and as a psychology major, he believes that understanding human behavior is essential for empathetic law practice. John acknowledged his professors, the strong bonds students build during their programs, and that the resources available to all students at Cuyamaca College made it much more than just a place to pursue academic aspirations.
Grossmont College Commencement Student Speaker Remy Berman, a 44 year old single mother, overcame incredible adversity to earn her degree. When she was younger, Remy was labeled a problem child and left school without a diploma. While pregnant, she earned her GED, and went on to earn an Associate Degree in veterinary technology, receiving the Director’s award for perseverance.
At Grossmont College, Remy graduated with a 3.7 GPA and plans to pursue a Bachelors in Criminal Justice at San Diego State University, aiming for law school. Her inspirational commencement speech earned a standing ovation, proving the power of support and determination.