More than 350 Valley College students and their families and friends gathered together in Monarch Hall April 10 for the Dean's Reception to honor students for their academic achievements. Some received President's List honors for their outstanding performance in the last three semesters.
"It's really been a commitment," student Sandra Booker said of the honor. "It's been very challenging and very rewarding."
The Associated Student Union sponsored the event with a budget of almost $2,500. "We've been preparing for the Dean's Reception since the beginning of the spring semester," ASU adviser Sherri Rodriguez said.
To celebrate the occasion, campus center hallway showcases displayed the names of those honored and signs above the Monarch Hall stage welcomed honorees. Finger foods prepared by the cooking class enhanced the festivity.
Under dim lights, student musicians Michael Camp and Aki Yambe serenaded guests with music by Italian and German composers.
"I see more faces this semester, that means a lot more people are competing for better grades," ASU President Sam Kbushyan said.
Students had to maintain at least 3.5 GPA to make the dean's list. Those on the President's List received a gold plated pin, stage recognition, an invitation to Valley's oldest club and honor society, Tau Alpha Epsilon and eligibility for Phi Theta Kappa, a nationally recognized community college honor society.
"I extend my personal congratulations," Vice President of Academic Affairs Carlotta Tronto said. "Do something with your education and continue your excellence. Use all your resources to see how you personally can make a difference in the world,"
Honorees were encouraged to move on to the next step, and to realize that life learning is continuous. "Remain open to all ideals," Tronto said "There are no limits, only those we put on our selves."
"You make us proud. Congratulations - you are well on your way to reaching your goal. I hope you set higher goals still," Ivna Gusmao, Valley counselor and winner of the 2003 Women in Education award said. "I sincerely hope that your education will help you question your leaders. With education comes great responsibility. Settle disputes with diplomacy rather than war. Search for the fire in you belly and do what you love."
"All the hard work paid off. I can't believe I did it." student Angelica Corona Martinez said.
"It's been a great experience. I can't say enough about how helpful and supportive the teachers are and how much [my son] has learned." Christian Name? Maguire, Commissioner of student and social affairs said. "The one on one attention is great." Maguire's son John has been on the dean's list for four semesters and the President's List for the second time.








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