As the cheers of their supporters and family members carried throughout the Garden Chapel, 157 men from San Quentin received educational and vocational certificates and degrees at the annual commencement ceremony. More than one face in the audience registered the evidence of a passing tear, and forgotten momentarily was the looming threat for massive cuts in prison educational programs as Chief Deputy Warden Vincent S. Cullen addressed the standing room only crowd, Thursday, June 18.
The Vietnam Veteran’s Group of San Quentin Color Guard had opened the ceremony as they carried in the American flag. They were followed to the stage by Cullen.
“You have accomplished some great things here,” said a smiling Cullen. “This is a bright moment in the dark time. This is a very big event in rehabilitation. Take this moment and focus on your accomplishment.”
Master-of ceremonies and Education Vice-President Frank Kellum mirrored Cullen’s pride for the graduates. “What these men accomplished today proves that they have the determination to move forward,” Kellum said in acknowledging the efforts of this year’s honorees.
With smiles radiating throughout the packed chapel area, 49 men stepped forward to receive their GED certificates, along with the 13 who received vocational certificates and the lone recipient of a high school diploma. In addition, 14 former students of Patten College made their way to the stage to receive their Associate of Arts degrees.
Dr. Martin C. Jones was the keynote speaker for the ceremony, along with Tiffani Neal who represented Patten College.
Jones challenged the graduates in saying, “You have a responsibility, meaning you’re going to have to leave some of your old habits and pick up new ones…education is your foot in the door.”
Inmate Larry Dixon served as the valedictorian for the Robert E. Burton Adult School, while Felix Lucero Jr. was the Patten University Valedictorian.
Most in the audience appeared focused on the continued accomplishments of the students and staff of San Quentin’s educational community, rather than the specter of cuts in the program’s budget. Among those who voiced a positive perspective was educational Correctional Officer Coon, who said, “One of the most rewarding things I get out of my job is to see a young man come into the education department, start showing up every day, then graduate from the program with a diploma or degree.”
And it appeared that those inmates taking part in the day’s ceremonies were focused positively on what the future might hold in store, knowing that each of them had at least one more thing working in their favor, an education.
“The valedictorians said it all, that’s what we’re all about, changing hearts, building character, educating minds and giving people a chance at life,” said Ted Roberts, the proud principal of San Quentin’s Education Department.