PCC’s 63rd commencement ceremony centers on student spirit and belonging
Story by James Hill. Photos by Ric Getter.
Newly minted PCC graduates enjoy a celebratory shower of confetti.
In these uncertain times, one thing remains true — Portland Community College cares about its students.
On Friday, June 13, PCC held its 63rd commencement ceremony at the Memorial Coliseum, where nearly 1,000 graduates were honored before a crowd of thousands. The theme of this year’s commencement was caring, support and belonging. PCC President Dr. Adrien Bennings presided over the event, joined by keynote speaker Lisa Mensah, president and CEO of the Oregon Community Foundation, who delivered an inspiring message celebrating the Class of 2025.
Student speaker Rose Binoya, a 37-year-old Exercise Science graduate and mother of two, shared her story that was aligned with the theme, showcasing her transformation from artist to inclusive fitness advocate. Her speech highlighted resilience, compassion and the importance of accessible wellness for all.
The event was livestreamed and can be viewed on the PCC YouTube channel.
63rd Commencement Gallery
Some of the inspiring graduate stories this year included:
Finding Her Groove at PCC
Sofia Nava Ulacio, a soulful guitarist and PCC President’s List scholar, graduated this June after overcoming adversity and mastering English. Known as “the female Latin John Mayer,” she leads the Sofi Nava Trio and has won major arts awards, inspiring others with her journey from El Sistema to Oregon stages.
Read more on Sofia’s story here.
National Award Elicits Tears of Joy
New grad Diego Lobato has won the 2025 Jack Kent Cooke Foundation Undergraduate Transfer Scholarship—one of the nation’s most competitive awards. He’ll receive up to $55,000 annually to attend New York University. The scholarship honors academic excellence, leadership, and perseverance, and supports Lobato’s dream of building a socially impactful tech business.
Read more about Diego’s journey here.
Scholar Ballers Go Back-To-Back
Guards Edy Essien and Jamie McGrail led PCC’s men’s basketball team to back-to-back NWAC Southern Region titles while excelling academically. Essien, a Hillsboro native, will study computer science at Western Oregon University. McGrail, from Gibraltar, plans to major in environmental studies at Pacific Lutheran University. Both embody the scholar-athlete spirit.
Read more about Edy and Jamie here.
A Blueprint For Big Dreams
Yuriko Ose, an honors graduate in Interior Design at PCC, blends global and local influences in her work. Raised in Japan, she interned with Ichijo Technological Homes in Tigard, applying sustainable design principles. With a 4.0 GPA and deep cultural insight, Ose aspires to create inclusive, wellness-centered interior spaces.