WEST WINDSOR – While hundreds of Mercer County Community College (MCCC) graduates-to-be were preparing to celebrate their first higher education milestone at MCCC’s 2019 Commencement Ceremony, dozens of former grads were celebrating a second milestone: earning their bachelor’s degree through the William Paterson University (WPU) at Mercer program.
During a May 10 ceremony at the MCCC Conference Center, 42 graduates were recognized for earning their bachelor’s degrees through the WPU program on Mercer’s West Windsor Campus. More than 160 graduates, family and friends attended the ceremony.
“We are very proud of our William Paterson University graduates on the Mercer campus, and of our long-standing, successful partnership with MCCC,” said Dr. Sandra Hill, Associate Provost for Academic Affairs at WPU.
Through the WPU at Mercer program, associate degree graduates can continue their education and earn their bachelor’s degree on MCCC’s West Windsor Campus. Degrees are offered in Early Childhood Education, Liberal Studies, and Psychology.
“Here at Mercer, our goal is to provide a quality, affordable education, thus making the dream of a four-year degree realistic and attainable,” said Dr. Robert Schreyer, MCCC's Interim Vice President for Academic Affairs. “As we can see through tonight’s graduates, dreams can easily become reality, and we are pleased to have William Paterson as a partner equally dedicated to student success.”
Among the WPU at Mercer graduates recognized for outstanding achievement were Katie Mullen, who received the Student Academic Excellence Award; Alejandra Silva, recipient of the Psychology Club Award; and Sean O’Connor, who received the Service Award.
“Many of the students graduating today faced substantial challenges in earning their associate degree, but through hard work, dedication, and perseverance, you are earning your bachelor’s degree from a quality university, and ready for your next challenge,” Schreyer said. “I wish you the best of luck in attaining your next goal in life. But today is a day to celebrate.”
WPU is one of five partners that make up MCCC’s University Center, which includes Rutgers University, Fairleigh Dickinson University, Felician University and Wilmington University, all of which offer bachelor’s degree programs on the MCCC campus.
Additional photos are available here through the WPU at Mercer website.