Grossmont and Cuyamaca colleges awarded over 6,230 degrees and certificates in 2026

dual image of graduates smiling at the camera

El Cajon, CA – On June 3 and 4, 2026, Grossmont and Cuyamaca colleges awarded more than 6,230 degrees and certificates to over 2,500 graduates. Nearly 1,000 graduates walked across the stage in the commencement ceremonies, cheered on by thousands of family members, friends, and supporters.

Cuyamaca College awarded over 350 degrees this year, an approximate 32% increase from 2025. Over 600 Grossmont College students graduated with honors, earning a 3.5 GPA or higher, and over 40 students graduated with a 4.0 GPA. Over 1,700 Associate Degrees for Transfer (ADTs) were awarded in 2026, a significant increase over last year.

Grossmont College commencement student speaker, James Jacob Magaña Sr. is passionate about environmental sustainability, Indigenous stewardship, and community resilience. Through internships, environmental restoration projects, and community leadership, he has focused on helping communities reconnect with the land. He plans to transfer to San Diego State University to continue his studies in sustainability.

Cuyamaca College student speaker, Sydni Holdinghausen discovered a deep passion for supporting others and began shaping her goal of pursuing a career in nursing. Sydni has balanced family life, work, and community service, along with her academics. She graduated with an associate degree in Social Work and plans to continue her education in the helping professions at San Diego State University.