Special to BTX Today – by James Walker – A milestone moment for hundreds of students took place as Texas Southmost College (TSC) held a trio of Spring Commencement ceremonies on Saturday, May 17, 2025 at the Jacob Brown Auditorium.
A total of 816 graduates walked the stage to receive their diplomas and certificates in front of their proud families and loved ones. Among the hundreds of graduates were dual-credit students from 18 local high schools, earning their college credentials before even finishing high school.
A gathering of TSC administration were on-hand as part of the ceremony, dressed in the traditional academic regalia, delivering their congratulations to the new graduates, as well as offering words of encouragement as they prepare to take the next steps in their lives.
“No matter what program of study you chose at TSC, our Trustees, faculty, and staff had one goal: your success,” TSC President Dr. Jesus Roberto Rodriguez told the crowd of new graduates. “In the end, your individual success helps sustain a thriving local economy and improved overall well-being for all members of our community.”
The events also featured guest commencement speaker Ms. Teresa Ann Capistran, Superintendent of Point Isabel Independent School District. As a first-generation college graduate, Ms. Capistran offered a message focusing on creating milestones and blazing trails for future students to follow.
“All of you can achieve anything you set your mind to do,” Capistran told the graduating classes. “You can be the first in your family to do what hasn’t been done before. You have heard the saying ‘the sky is the limit’ and may not really have personalized it to your life, but it is true.”
Each ceremony concluded with a final congratulations from Dr. Rodriguez and a triumphant burst of confetti cannons to mark the occasion with a signature TSC style of spectacle. As the graduates and their loved ones filed outside for photographs and further adulation, it painted a proud picture of the region’s commitment to education and a powerful reminder of what is possible when opportunity and determination come together.
On behalf of everyone at Texas Southmost College, congratulations to the graduating class of Spring 2025!