Fall Graduate Reception
Fall Graduate Reception a prelude to HCC's 80th Commencement
Holyoke Community College will honor its fall semester graduates with a special recognition event on Monday, Nov. 30.
The college’s fourth annual Fall Graduate Reception runs from 5:30-7:30 p.m. on the HCC main campus, 303 Homestead Ave., beginning in the Leslie Phillips Theater for the official ceremony and continuing with a reception in the Campus Center.
HCC initiated the fall ceremony in 2023 to engage graduates who complete their degrees and certificates in December by the end of the fall semester.
According to the HCC Registrar’s Office, about 250 students will be fall 2026 semester graduates. Many of them will transfer to four-year schools for the spring 2027 semester.
The goal of the family-friendly event is to recognize HCC’s newest graduates and strengthen their connection to HCC in the hopes that they will remain engaged and attend the college’s 80th Commencement ceremony on Saturday, June 5, 2027.
During the first part of the event in the Leslie Phillips Theater, Registrar Allison Wrobel and President George Timmons will offer introductory remarks, followed by student speakers. HCC alum Trudy Monson ’97, president of the HCC Alumni Council, will welcome the fall graduates as new members of HCC’s Alumni Association.
About 6:15 p.m., students and their families will be directed to the Campus Center for appetizers, activities, and photo opportunities.
PHOTO: New graduate Jamal Cumberbatch '26 eeceives a stole from President George Timmons at the Fall Graduate Reception in December 2025.
