Press release submitted by Southwest Texas College
07-14-25
(Uvalde, Texas ) In a moving and inspirational ceremony, Southwest Texas College celebrated the achievements of its 2025 GED graduating class. Held at the ICT Center in Eagle Pass, the event brought together students, families, educators, and community leaders to honor the perseverance and accomplishments of adult learners who overcame significant challenges to complete their high school equivalency. PHOTOS
The ceremony opened with welcoming remarks from SWTX Adult Education & Literacy ELC Director Diana Cano Alvarado, who praised the graduates for their resilience and commitment. “Today is not just about passing exams,” she said. “It’s about the sacrifices, the late nights, and the belief in yourself when the road was hard.”
The event featured a heartfelt invocation by SWTX Adult Education and Literacy Instructor Sergio Olvera Martinez, followed by remarks from For Kids are First Center Director Rodolfo Lopez, who shared his personal journey from GED graduate to school board president. His story underscored the transformative power of education and the doors it can open.
Class representatives Selena Saucedo (GED English) and Claudia Muñoz Obregón (ESL Spanish) delivered powerful speeches reflecting on their journeys, expressing gratitude to instructors and families, and encouraging fellow graduates to continue pursuing their dreams.
Keynote speaker Aide Castaño, Marketing and Tourism Director for City of Eagle Pass, reminded graduates that “learning doesn’t have a deadline” and celebrated their courage to begin again. She was joined by Carlos Colorado from the Mexican Consulate, who emphasized the importance of adult education and the consulate’s ongoing support through educational grants.
The ceremony also included emotional student reflections, the presentation of diplomas, and closing remarks by Brenda Hoffman, Vice President of Southwest Texas College. Hoffman challenged graduates to reflect on whether their lives are shaped by decisions or fears, urging them to continue making bold choices.
“This diploma is more than a piece of paper,” said SWTX Senior Director Margo Mata during the official presentation. “It’s a symbol of perseverance, determination, and the belief that it’s never too late to achieve your goals.”
About Southwest Texas College
Southwest Texas College is a regional, “open door” institution serving an 11-county area that stretches from the Texas Hill Country to the US-Mexican border. Since 1946 SWTX has provided accessible, affordable, high-quality education that prepares students to successfully transfer to senior colleges and universities; enter the job market; pursue their professional and personal goals; and contribute to the economic growth of the region. The company’s mission is to enrich lives and advance growth through the education of our diverse communities.
To learn more about SWTX, visit swtxc.edu. For more information on this story, contact Ismael Martinez, SWTX Social Media/Public Relations Specialist at 830-591-2942 or imartinez@swtxc.edu.
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