SPC Celebrates its 153rd Commencement Ceremony

St. Philip’s College celebrated its 153rd Commencement Ceremony on Dec. 10, marking a historic milestone as the college awarded its first-ever Bachelor of Applied Technology degrees in Cybersecurity.

The ceremony opened with remarks from George H. Johnson III, Vice President for College Services, followed by the posting of the colors by the Sam Houston High School JROTC Color Guard and the national anthem performed by Associate Professor David Uminski.

St. Philip’s College President Dr. Adena Williams Loston highlighted a year of institutional growth, announcing the fulfillment of a vision first imagined more than a century ago by the college’s founding president, Saint Artemisia Bowden.

“This 153rd commencement ceremony represents how far we have come since our founding in 1898 as a sewing school for the daughters and granddaughters of emancipated slaves,” Dr. Loston said. “Tonight, St. Philip’s College can officially say we have issued a four-year degree.”

Loston also recognized Valero Energy Corporation for its $1 million donation supporting the Bachelor of Applied Technology in Cybersecurity program.

Student speaker Jon Aguilar, one of the college’s first cybersecurity baccalaureate graduates, shared a personal story of perseverance. Jon, who returned to college after leaving school many years earlier, spoke about overcoming illness, personal loss, and family hardships while pursuing his degree.

“Class of 2025, we have accomplished our academic goals, overcame obstacles, embraced growth, and proved to ourselves that we are ready for whatever challenges lie ahead.”

The ceremony also featured remarks from Valero Senior Vice President of Communications, Public Relations, and Engagement Seymour Battle III, who spearheaded the company’s recent donation to St. Philip’s College.

As tassels shifted from right to left inside Freeman Coliseum, St. Philip’s College celebrated the accomplishments of its 1,209 graduates and the fulfillment of Saint Artemisia Bowden’s vision of St. Philip’s College offering a four-year degree.