KLAMATH FALLS — Klamath Community College celebrated its 30th annual commencement on June 12, honoring the spring 2026 graduating class. There were a recent record 256 students who petitioned to graduate, with 231 earning degrees and 25 completing certificates across 32 academic disciplines.
A total of 156 graduates participated in the traditional processional across the campus lawn before receiving their diploma covers from KCC President Dr. Roberto Gutiérrez and the Board of Trustees on stage. More than 800 family members, friends, and community supporters attended the ceremony, celebrating the dedication and achievements of the graduates.
The event highlighted both individual accomplishments and the collective strength of the KCC community, underscoring the college's ongoing commitment to education and student success.
"A great deal of institutional energy, heart and soul has been devoted to ensuring the success of our next generation of students. So, it is indeed a pleasure this afternoon to relax and enjoy the success and moments of celebration for this graduation class," Dr. Gutierrez told the audience.
He then asked the students to stand and face family members to thank them for their support in reaching this milestone amid much cheering, applause and even air horn blasts.
Keynote speaker, Klamath Falls City Manager Jonathan Teichert, spoke to the graduates of his own struggles early in his education.
"I wasn't the most motivated student. I definitely wasn't ready for a university. Community college changed that for me," Teichert said. "I enrolled at a small junior college in Idaho because that's what I could handle at the time. The classes were small, the teachers actually knew my name and for the first time I learned how to study. They taught me how to take responsibility for my education and for my future. And that made all the difference." He went on to earn a bachelor's and master's degree from the University of Wyoming.
"Everything that came after — from working for the State of Wyoming, to 25 years serving in local government, to now leading the City of Klamath Falls — started with the foundation that community college gave me," he said.
"That's why I believe so deeply in what KCC does," he said.
"We rely on KCC for essential workforce training, whether that's in the skilled trades, public safety, or technical programs that serve the community. When our city faces shortages — like truck drivers, pilots, nurses, well drillers or construction trades — KCC steps in with programs that meet real needs."
"We are proud to partner with KCC because KCC is a place where people get second chances, new beginnings, and real opportunities," Teichert said.
KCC graduate Dora Maria Peña Ramirez was recognized by her instructors as one who has overcome hardship to earn a GED and then an Associate in Automotive and Diesel Technology.
"Dora Peña Ramirez's journey is a powerful testament to resilience and determination. After losing her father young and growing up in an environment where education wasn't encouraged, she immigrated to the United States at 17 and immediately entered the workforce to support herself and later her family. As a young mother working long hours in the fields, her own educational dreams were often postponed. Even when she faced a serious health setback while enrolled in the High School Equivalency Program at KCC, Dora continued attending classes remotely and refused to let adversity stop her," KCC Vice President of Student Affairs Gail Schull said.
"After earning her GED, Dora enrolled in the Diesel Technology program, dedicating countless hours to translating coursework and mastering complex material in a second language. She made significant sacrifices — including leaving her job — to fully commit to her education."
Also recognized was graduate Chris Mercado, a first-generation student who has navigated personal and professional challenges on his path to higher education. A devoted father of eight children, he spent most of his adult life working in physically demanding jobs such as construction and long-haul trucking to support his family.
"Despite these obstacles, Chris refused to let his goals fade," Schull said. "After nearly two decades of delay, he reignited his passion for veterinary medicine and fully embraced every opportunity available at Klamath Community College. He will be attending Oregon Institute of Technology in the fall."
Kelley Fritz, Faculty Program Lead for Early Childhood Education, was honored by the college after being nominated by one of her students.
One student said of Fritz, "This is my second time going through college. The first time I couldn't finish because I didn't have the support. Kelly assured me that I could graduate three years ago, now I am standing to graduation and all because of her encouragement and help. When I first started I was very confused, financially insecure and unsure if I could finish all my classes. Kelly helped me get connected to financial aid and grants and helped me as an advisor within my program. She walked me all the way through. Now I'm glad to say that I did it and we did it together. She really impacted my career and my life. I will always remember her."
Dr. Gutierrez also recognized two retiring faculty, Peter Brandsness, a driving force behind the college's Computer Engineering Technology and Cybersecurity programs, and Stan Pence, who created the original Advanced Manufacturing program, establishing the CAD classroom and campus lab space that students rely on today.
Vice President of Academic Affairs Jamie Jennings was also honored. Jennings is retiring after 26 years at KCC, 14 years as a faculty member and 12 as a vice president and Cabinet member. She is also the college's chief academic officer.
For more information about KCC and its programs, visit www.klamathcc.edu.
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_Submitted by Gerry O'Brien, Klamath Community College (OBrien@klamathcc.edu)._
