JANESVILLE — Blackhawk Technical College celebrated its newest graduates on Tuesday, Dec. 17 during a commencement ceremony in the Conference Center at the Beloit-Janesville Campus. 

A total of 87 credentials were awarded to the December graduates, including associate degrees, diplomas and certifications.  

The ceremony featured student speaker Trevor Boyle, a graduate of the Associate Degree in Nursing program, who shared his reflections on the transformative journey of education at Blackhawk. 

“When we first walked through these doors, we were filled with anticipation, eager to make new friends, to learn new things, and to carve our own paths,” Boyle said. “Along the way, we encountered challenges, some big and small, but each one shaped us into who we are today. We learned the importance of resilience, the power of collaboration, and the value of persistence.”

Boyle also expressed gratitude to Blackhawk’s faculty.

“You have given us more than just knowledge. You’ve given us the tools to navigate the world and make a difference,” he said.

Patty Aronson, a Nursing instructor and the 2024 Faculty of the Year, also spoke.

“Life will continue to challenge you. But remember you made a decision to go to school to better yourself and you did it,” said Aronson, who also is a co-advisor to the Student Nurses Association.