Released: May 8, 2025
Ceremony at 5:30 p.m. Tuesday, May 20, in Jemez Rooms, 6401 Richards Avenue
Santa Fe Community College announces New Mexico Higher Education Department Cabinet Secretary Stephanie Rodriguez will give the keynote address to the 38 students who successfully completed their High School Equivalency (HSE) in the Adult Education Academic Career Education (ACE) program at SFCC. The ceremony begins at 5:30 p.m. Tuesday, May 20 in the Jemez Rooms, 6401 Richards Avenue.
The HSE graduation ceremony is a celebration of the students’ hard work and dedication in achieving their High School Equivalency Certificate. It’s a formal event where graduates are recognized for their accomplishments and receive their diplomas. This ceremony marks a significant step forward, enabling them to pursue further education, advance in their careers, and achieve their personal goals.
SFCC’s HSE graduates include 38 students, ranging in age from 16 to 34 years old. The majority of the students identify as Latino/a, and most are female. All graduates are from the Santa Fe area.
The SFCC ACE program helps students prepare for their HSE credential, as well as for college and career opportunities after earning their HSE. Students study for the GED or HiSET exams to meet the HSE requirements set by the state of New Mexico.
Cabinet Secretary of the New Mexico Higher Education Department Stephanie Rodriguez
Keynote speaker, Cabinet Secretary of NM Higher Education Department Stephanie Rodriguez
Stephanie Rodriguez, Cabinet Secretary of the New Mexico Higher Education Department since 2020, has overseen the creation and expansion of the most inclusive free college tuition program in the United States. Fighting for groundbreaking investments in college accessibility, Secretary Rodriguez has helped enact a significant rebound in college enrollment in New Mexico, and she has overseen major investments in supporting adult education programs, students’ basic needs, making higher education a reality for tens of thousands more New Mexicans at every age and different stages of life. A daughter and granddaughter of Mexican migrants, Secretary Rodriguez was the first of her four siblings to graduate from college, and at the time of her appointment as secretary, she was the youngest state higher education executive in the country.
Three student speakers will share their personal stories at the ceremony. Here are personal quotes from them.
Amanda Aguirre:
“I am a mother of five amazing adult children, grandmother of one wonderful grandson, and a baby girl on the way. It was through intensive therapy, for many of my life’s challenges, that I came to an understanding with myself and decided that having an education was extremely important for my personal growth. I am passionate about mental health and the positive effects an education can have on self-esteem and good decision-making. At 45 years old, I am proud to have done what I set out to do, and I will continue moving forward because I know I can.”
Yesika Medina Ochoa:
“Born in Janos, Chihuahua, Mexico, on October 5, 1981, I emigrated to this country at the age of 20, where I have lived ever since with my three children, America, Grecia, Ricardo, and my granddaughter, Alice. As a single mother, I have worked hard to provide my children with the best education and principles. A faithful believer in God and that we are what we leave in the hearts of others, my family and friends describe me as a sincere, strong, loyal, persevering, and loving woman.”
Kristal Wilson:
“I am a Santa Fe native. I left when I was 16 and just returned home (to Santa Fe) in September 2024. I am a mother of five, grandmother of four. My career path has always been healthcare, but my passion is mental health and substance abuse. I am a natural nurturer and giver at times to a fault. I’m fun, outgoing and full of laughter. Getting my GED at this stage of my life means the world to me. So many people doubted me but even more didn’t even know I was doing it until I was done. I’m living for me.”
For more information about SFCC’s HSE commencement ceremony or the ACE program, contact ACE program manager Monica Martin by email at monica.martin@sfcc.edu or call 505-428-1070.
For more than 40 years Santa Fe Community College has been the pathway to success for individuals and the community. SFCC provides affordable, high-quality programs that serve the academic, cultural, and economic needs of the community. The college welcomes over 10,000 students per year in credit, noncredit, workforce training, personal enrichment, and adult programs.
A “Best for Vets” and a “Military Friendly” school.
Visit sfcc.edu or call 505-428-1000.
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