Over 1,000 students graduated from Moorpark College in a ceremony held on Thursday evening, outside the Campus Center, where speakers announced the graduates’ associate’s degrees and educational plans.

Hundreds of parents and loved ones gathered as speakers, which included President Luis Sanchez, Chancellor Jamillah Moore, Associated Students President Farshid Orak and other administrators, spoke to graduates about their future and finding their place in the world.

“Today is full of pride and excitement for [the graduates] families and themselves,” Sanchez said. “This is a great milestone in their lives.”

The graduating students represented the diversity in the college and its programs. The oldest graduate was 75 and the youngest was 18. Some graduated with their daughters, some with their service dogs and others with their parents. There were 35 veterans graduating, with individuals from the marines, air force and navy. A number came from the college’s Nursing department, Child Development department, Honors program and Fitness program.

“It was a pleasure to advocate for students, especially minorities and underprivileged students,” Orak said.

Orak expressed his gratitude to the college and discussed his experience leading the students.

“I did my best to represent all of you,” Orak said. “You have helped me stay here and achieve my dreams.”

Many graduates are transferring to nearby four-year universities such as California State University, Northridge and California Lutheran University, although some are going as far as Colorado State University.

Telloria Roseman, a Theater Arts major and Navy veteran, was ecstatic.

“I feel terrific,” Roseman said, fist pumping the air.

VCCCD Chancellor Jamillah Moore urged students to thank those who helped them get to where they are.

“Take this moment and really enjoy it,” Moore said.

She advised students to remember and use this experience in the future.

“Remember this moment of happiness and congratulations when you encounter a moment of adversity,” Moore said. “Because adversity is a process on the pathway to something better.”