Student Equity and Support Programs (SESP) and Counseling Division programs celebrated the graduation, certificate completion, and transfer of students who are members of their student support programs at the 3rd Annual Pop-Up Celebration on commencement morning. Initially started two years ago by Brothers Achieving Milestones (BAM), CareCalWorks, EOPS, Guardian Scholars Program, and TRIO the Pop-Up expanded this year to include NextUp, Project Change & the Promise Scholars Program students. In 2024, the programs collectively celebrated over 300 graduates, transfers and/or certificate earners from low-income, first-generation college student backgrounds as they demonstrated high scholarship, resilience, and character.
The Pop-Up event included 72 students, 71 Faculty/Professional Staff/ Administrators, and 224 family members totaling over 360 attendees. Students received a host of honors including Dean’s List and academic distinction while completing degrees and certificates in various disciplines. Students are transferring to prestigious institutions including UC Berkeley, San Jose State University, San Francisco State University, UCLA, UC Davis, and Oklahoma City University.
As students excitedly prepared for commencement and their futures, they reflected fondly on their participation and engagement with program staff and faculty. As multiple program members stated:
“Being part of the programs, especially TRiO and BAM was one of the best decisions I made while I was at Skyline College, and I can’t recommend it enough; my future is much brighter because of the support and mentorship I received. “
“I really appreciate the focus on assisting students with academic counseling, and of course, the financial assistance was nice as well (EOPS and Promise).”
“My experience has been great and I have awesome counselors since I began my journey at Skyline (EOPS, PSP and TRIO)”
We applaud our Skyline College graduates and look forward to their continued success and numerous accomplishments that will surely follow.
Article by Brianna Clay and Michael Stoke
