Two-Time Paralympian Anastasia Pagonis and Ventura College alumnus and journalist Desmond Shaw to participate in milestone ceremony
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Marking 100 years of transforming student lives in Ventura County, Ventura College is preparing to close its centennial year with a ceremony befitting the milestone. This ceremony, taking place Friday, May 22 on the Ventura College campus, will feature distinguished guests, a historic musical performance, and a keynote address from a world-class athlete and advocate. Media representatives are encouraged to attend and cover the event.
Ventura College alumnus and journalist Desmond Shaw will deliver opening remarks at 9:30 a.m. Shaw went on from VC to build a career in broadcast journalism, and his return to campus is a testament to the pathways Ventura College creates for its students.
Gold medalist, two-time Paralympic swimmer and advocate Anastasia Pagonis will deliver the commencement address. Diagnosed with a visual impairment at age 11, Pagonis transformed adversity into a platform for resilience and advocacy. A Team USA representative and passionate advocate for inclusivity and individuality, she has inspired others not to be defined by a single label.
As Ventura College closes its Centennial year, the VC Singers will perform the original Alma Mater, a tribute to a century of Pirate pride. The program will open with a Chumash land acknowledgement honoring the Indigenous heritage of the land on which the College stands.
Note to Media:
Commencement is a ticketed, invitation-only event reserved for graduates and their guests. Media credentialed for coverage are welcome and encouraged to attend. Please contact Andrea Rambo for more information.