Temecula Woman, 90, Earns First College Degree: MSJC Class Of 2025

TEMECULA, CA ? The Mt. San Jacinto College class of 2025 has turned their tassels, launching into what's next, and rarely has the college seen such a varied class of graduates.

Last week, MSJC held its 61st Commencement Ceremony at Pechanga Resort Casino in Temecula in three separate ceremonies throughout the day to accommodate all graduates and their families.

During the ceremonies, new for the class of 2025, the college introduced real-time English and Spanish captioning and interpretation services, reflecting its designation as a Hispanic-Serving Institution. Over 50 percent of MSJC students identify as Hispanic, according to a school official.

This year, MSJC awarded a total of 3,353 degrees and certificates to 2,556 graduates. The graduates ranged in age from 15 to 90 years old. One posthumous graduation degree was also awarded, they say.

Among the graduates, a Temecula woman, Rita Victoria Hernandez, 90, was recognized for taking part in a true family legacy.

Hernandez's graduation marks a family milestone, a college spokesperson said. "She enrolled during the COVID pandemic in 2020. Her granddaughter graduated from MSJC in 2022, her great-granddaughter in 2024, and her great-grandson will begin at MSJC in the fall."

The new graduate expressed her thoughts on her MSJC journey, saying:

?As someone who had never experienced college before, I can honestly say the support I received at MSJC was unbelievable. I was fortunate to learn from inspiring and dedicated professors whose encouragement played a key role in my success.?

At each ceremony, MSJC Superintendent and President, Dr. Roger W. Schultz, shared his message to the graduates.

?Every graduation is a milestone, but today is particularly special because it represents more than the completion of courses or the earning of degrees. It is a celebration of action, breakthroughs, collaboration, and courage. The diploma you receive today is the key to new opportunities, challenges, and successes.?

The Class of 2025 reflects the heart of MSJC?s mission to transform learners, communities, and lives, he said. "With degrees earned, goals achieved, and new chapters beginning, this year?s graduates exemplify resilience, diversity, and determination."

Among the graduates celebrated for their perseverance, leadership, and transformation:

Gerardo Sanchez, 45, of Hemet, is a husband, father of five, and caregiver to three children with autism. After dropping out of high school in 10th grade, he returned to education through MSJC?s Adult Education Program and earned his GED in 2022. He graduated with three associate degrees in Sociology, Social Justice, and Liberal Arts ? Social and Behavioral Sciences.

?The support I received from MSJC?s staff and programs made all the difference in my journey,? Sanchez said. ?From food and gas cards to help during tough times, to replacing my broken laptop so I could stay enrolled, their support went far beyond the classroom. I was ready to give up more than once, but their belief in me kept me going. Today, I?m graduating with three degrees, and it?s because MSJC didn?t just support me?they empowered me. I hope to pay that forward someday.?

Jaxon Tabesh, 21, of Murrieta, is graduating with five associate degrees, including in Business and Computer Science. A recipient of the 2023 North American Country Music Association International (NACMAI) award, Tabesh also distinguished himself as a leader on campus. He served as President of the Computer Science Club, an Honors Program mentor, Phi Theta Kappa Scholarship Officer, and a Supplemental Instruction Leader. He also helped organize MSJC?s first-ever hackathon.

?Each role was an important part of my deeply rewarding leadership and graduation journey,? Tabesh said. ?The support I received from MSJC was essential to my journey. From outstanding counselors and professors to dedicated tutors and supportive peers, I was surrounded by people who believed in me every step of the way. I truly could not have done it without them.?

This year?s commencement also marked a solemn and historic moment for MSJC, as the college awarded its first-ever posthumous degree.

Marisa Alejandra Rosas, a beloved member of the MSJC community whose life was tragically cut short, was awarded her diploma.

"Her passion for learning, commitment to her goals, and deep love for her community left a lasting impression on all who knew her.

An empty chair with a flower in the front row honored Marisa?s presence and rightful place among the Class of 2025.

?In honor of (Marisa's) academic efforts and the life she devoted to bettering herself and those around her,? Dr. Schultz said, ?Mt. San Jacinto College is proud to award Marisa Alejandra Rosas with MSJC?s first posthumous degree. Please join us in recognizing and celebrating Marisa?s life and accomplishments.?