The 3rd annual Asian Pacific Islander Desi Cultural Transfer and Graduation ceremony was held, with a full audience at LBCC on Saturday May 20, 2023 at the E building, in the Nordic Lounge.
Student graduates, family, friends, faculty and alumni were in attendance to celebrate the accomplishment that was achieved by the APID students at LBCC.
A former first generation student himself, keynote speaker Loy Nashua JD, Vice President of the Human Resource Department, encouraged the room to push for success in their careers and future studies, acknowledging the hard work and struggles that many APID minority communities face.
“Keep pushing forward, get the support system that you need,” Nashua said.
He mentioned the pandemic had racially discriminated against his community.
The racial barriers and remarks that have caused the community to feel unease did not stop students from continuing their studies at LBCC.
Community college has given students an opportunity to thrive and to push for their goals in their careers and studies. They smiled and cheered one another in the rows to the front of the stage.
The APID club was mentioned for their recognition on campus, voted the best club on campus in 2023.
Student speaker, Shafi Shahriar, proudly spoke about his Bangladeshi roots, his involvement at LBCC and his love for the APID club.
To end the presentation, a figure that was covered in oil, barefoot, with candy wrap, and money was thrown to represent the many forms of celebration in the APID community.
After the ceremony, attendee Jacob Parson mentioned that he found his passion in the many areas of Asia.
Parson hopes to take his studies in art history and studio history and meet artists and work with museums.
“I want to work with more asian art, it’s not talked about enough,” Parsons said.
Adding to more transfers, Nicolas Cervantes received his degree in Architecture design. He plans to transfer to a four year university as well.
“This is my first degree, I will be working on more,” Cervantes said.
Graduates were thanked and sent off with encouragement to the next chapter of their lives.