State College of Florida, Manatee-Sarasota (SCF) awarded more than 1,000 degrees and workforce certificates to graduating students at its Spring 2026 grad walk and traditional graduation ceremonies on May 8 at SCF Venice and SCF Bradenton.
The College handed out 668 Associate in Arts (AA) degrees, 294 Associate in Science degrees, 97 bachelor’s degrees and 70 workforce certificates. Nearly 2,000 guests and 474 graduates attended. The graduating class included 39 military veterans.
Patricia Rand, Ph.D., vice president, academic affairs, SCF, delivered the opening remarks and presented the graduates. She also presented the Outstanding Faculty Award to Eric Warrick, professor, natural science, SCF, and the Outstanding Graduate Award (OGA) to Jana Andresia Maynard.
As a mother and student continuing her education, Maynard served as president of the Sigma Kappa Delta honor society and participated in the TRIO Student Support Services program, fundraising, photography and other activities. She earned an AA degree and a 3.7 GPA and plans to pursue a bachelor’s degree in psychology and a doctorate degree in clinical psychology at the University of South Florida.
OGA finalists Carlos Aguilar-Mancera and Kristen Joanna Molina Medina introduced Tommy Gregory, J.D., president, SCF at two separate ceremonies. President Gregory presided over the conferment of degrees, the graduate charge and the recessional.
Highlighting the important role faculty play in student success, President Gregory said, “Our faculty have challenged, supported and believed in our students every step of the way. Today’s graduates have already demonstrated resilience and determination, and I encourage them to take their next steps with purpose and confidence.”
View SCF’s graduation video and photo highlights on the SCF Facebook page.
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