As families patiently wait for the start of the ceremony, it’s not often said what is seen, heard or felt before Laredo College’s newest graduates walk the stage. With a record-breaking number of graduates during the Spring 2026 Commencement Ceremony, each of the three ceremonies swelled with both pride and excitement, on the stage and behind the scenes.
“For us, it is an extremely proud moment to be able to celebrate with our students, our families and the community,” LC President Dr. Minita Ramírez said as she walked by hallways full of laughter, camera flashes and eager graduates. “These students are prepared and ready to excel in life on their next adventure. Whether they are going into the workforce, transferring to a university or continuing with Laredo College, their success is being celebrated today and shared with our community.”
Sitting patiently, the families’ eagerness to see their loved one cross the stage and the anticipation of the celebration that’s to come grew with each passing minute. Amid the wait, they directed their attention to a string of recorded memories heightened by energizing music shown on the stage’s screens. There, families caught a glimpse of their graduate enjoying their time alongside friends, taking a break from their studies and experiencing all that LC has to offer.
Arriving early to secure a spot close to the stage, Maria Martinez said that she and her family were excited to see her daughter walk the stage. Flowers close at hand, she added that it was a momentous occasion seeing how all her daughter’s hard work was paying off.
Backstage, the same eagerness to see their families was felt but was often punctuated with bright smiles and laughter. Selfies, group hugs and talks about the post-ceremony celebrations kept the spirits high and connected to what everyone in the arena seats felt. Minutes before they stepped into the limelight, in front of their families, friends and alongside their peers, the moment led graduates to reminisce about their journey.
This moment also helped remind them of those who come after. As Calderon is a first-generation student, he is proud to set a strong example for his brothers and look forward to the day they walk the stage. After a tender look back at their past and a vision of a future they will shape, the graduates hear the cue and walk toward their journey’s next chapter. 
With so many families celebrating, Andres Leyva Goire’s family stood out as his grandmother, mother and sister wore matching shirts that clearly indicated that they were his biggest fans. Planning to pursue a bachelor’s in biology, it was evident that his family will support him every step of the way. His sister and LC alumna, Islais Leyva, was glowing with pride and said that his accomplishment meant so much for the entire family.