North Country graduates 206 students at 56th Commencement

May 11, 2024

SARANAC LAKE – The North Country Community College Class of 2024 was celebrated Saturday at the college’s 56th Commencement ceremony.

A total of 206 students graduated Saturday in front of a packed house of their family and friends in the Sparks Athletic Complex gymnasium on the college’s Saranac Lake campus.

“Graduates, may your path lead to much goodness for you and others,” said college President Joe Keegan. “We are delighted that you chose North Country Community College and allowed us the privilege to help prepare you for the next chapter. Keep in touch so we get to see how far you go on your journey.”

The commencement ceremony featured remarks from college Board of Trustees Chairman Dr. Pete Suttmeier, College Senate Chair Allison Warner, Student Speaker Abby Martelle, and a Commencement address delivered by Linda McClarigan, RN, BSN, MSHA-BC-NE.

An accomplished leader with over 50 years of nursing experience, including 16 years as a senior executive, McClarigan offered words of advice to the graduates that she said helped guide both her professional career and personal life. Among them, find your passion, trust yourself, and embrace change.

“As you cherish today, I hope that success follows you in everything you do,” McClarigan said. “Dream new dreams, embark on who you are, embrace life with passion, and keep reaching for the stars.”

Earlier in the ceremony President Keegan recognized five college employees with SUNY Chancellor’s Awards.

  • Jennifer Cantwell: Excellence in Adjunct Teaching
  • Terry Kemp: Excellence in Professional Service
  • Allison Warner: Excellence in Faculty Service
  • Kathleen Dowd-Maloney: Excellence in Teaching
  • Kevin Bisonette: Excellence in Classified Service

Among the many students receiving diplomas today are graduates in:

  • Associate Degree in Nursing: 53
  • Certificate in Practical Nursing: 52
  • Liberal Arts and Sciences: Humanities and Social Science: 20
  • Radiologic Technology: 17
  • Business Administration (AS and AAS): 13
  • Criminal Justice: 8

For a complete list of graduates, visit the college website. For additional information please contact Chris Knight, NCCC Communications Director, at cknight@nccc.edu.