Albion student among small group to earn GCC degree before finishing high school

Press Release, Genesee Community College

Provided photo: Kenadie Patten earned her degree from Genesee Community College on May 17, about a month before she graduates from Albion High School on June 27.

BATAVIA – Genesee Community College celebrated its 57th annual Commencement Ceremony on May 17 with a group of seven students from area high schools and home schools deserving special mention.

They completed their GCC degree requirements concurrently with their high school diplomas or New York State High School Equivalency. These graduates participated in the seventh annual cohort of the Excel Program (formerly Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM) Enrichment Program) through GCC’s Accelerated College Enrollment (ACE) Office.

These high-achieving individuals include the following: Zoey Berggren (Attica), Jeremiah Childs (Batavia), Paige Harding (Oakfield), Holden Kelly (Perry), Tess McLaughlin (Perry), Kenadie Patten (Albion) and Olivia Swyers (Perry).

The Excel program began in 2012 allowing the students to start their college studies as early as the seventh grade. In addition to their traditional schoolwork, they enrolled in college level coursework each year taking advantage of many academic opportunities and successfully completing all of the rigorous challenges of an associate degree.

“We are extremely proud of these seven exceptional students who have not only earned their high school diplomas but also completed their GCC degree requirements,” said Ann Valento, director of Accelerated College Enrollment programs at GCC. “Their dedication and hard work demonstrate the power of early college enrollment and the opportunities it provides. They are truly an inspiration to future generations of students.”

Kaitlyn Harloff, Excel program coordinator at GCC, added, “This program highlights the remarkable achievements of our students and their ability to excel in demanding academic environments. Their success is a testament to the effectiveness of the Excel Enrichment Program and the commitment of our faculty and staff to support and guide them.”

Genesee Community College’s 57th annual Commencement Ceremony was held at the Richard C. Call Arena and featured special guest Keynote Speaker Kate Welshofer. To view the ceremony, click here.

For more information contact Director of ACE Programs, Ann Valento at (585) 343-0055 x6316, or via email: amvalento@genesee.edu.