Celebrating Achievements: Aims Community College Hosts Spring Commencement

This is a notable commencement celebration, as Aims will award bachelor's degrees for the first time in the history of the college. 

Aims Community College celebrates graduating students on Friday, May 16, in the Aims Welcome Center, 4901 West 20th St. in Greeley.  A commencement ceremony for graduates in Allied Health & Wellness and Public Safety, Education & Transportation programs begins at 11 a.m. The second ceremony for Arts & Sciences and Business & Technology graduates is at 3 p.m. 

“Commencement is a celebration of goals achieved,” said Dr. Gene O’Hara, Vice Chair and Secretary of the Aims Board of Trustees. “It’s a powerful reminder of why Aims exists, to foster opportunity, support personal growth and strengthen our shared future.”

Below are a few facts about Aims students participating in the Spring 2025 commencement:  

• 508 students will take part in the official ceremonies
• Graduates range in age from 15 to 64
• 1,156 students graduated or are potentially graduating
• 1,826 credentials are being awarded or potentially awarded (students may get multiple credentials)

• The following are to be awarded:
  • 3 Bachelor of Applied Science Degrees
  • 337 Associate of Arts Degrees
  • 65 Associate of Science Degrees
  • 30 Associate of General Studies Degrees
  • 185 Associate of Applied Science Degrees
  • 1,206 Certificates

Aims Celebrates Its First Bachelor's Degree Graduates

The Bachelor of Applied Science (BAS) in Public Safety program launched in Spring 2023, offering a pathway for law enforcement, emergency medical services, and firefighting professionals to deepen their expertise and expand their career opportunities.

“This year’s commencement is significant as we celebrate the first graduates of our Bachelor of Applied Science in Public Safety,” said  Dr. Leah L. Bornstein, Aims Community College CEO and President. “These students are pioneers, leading the way as Aims continues to expand opportunities for academic and professional advancement right here in our community.”

BAS student, Andrew Brown, was selected to be a speaker at the 11 a.m. ceremony. He is a patrol officer with the Greeley Police Department and a part-time Aims instructor for the Police Academy program. 

“I'm proud to represent not just myself, but the bachelor's program, Aims, and the Class of 2025,” Brown said. 

Meet Aims Spring 2025 Graduates

• Alicia Avitia, a first-generation college student, plays a pivotal role in shaping campus life as the Student Government Association Vice President for Student Engagement, Inclusion, and Success and won the student employee of the year award. 
• Morgan Martin is a first-generation, non-traditional student and mother of two. She has navigated the challenges of multitasking school, work, and family while carving out a future she’s proud of.

• Ben Scott, a Marine Corps veteran, is working on his next chapter by studying welding. This has provided more than just technical training, it’s given him independence, confidence, and a supportive community that has been instrumental in his personal growth and transformation.
• Jeremiah Silva grew up in Greeley and is studying psychology. He dreams of becoming a counselor who supports young people facing mental health challenges, making sure they feel seen, heard, and understood.
• Get to know 18 more graduates as they reflect on what Aims has meant to them and share where they’re headed next. 

Commencement Event Information

Seating for the live ceremony in the auditorium is limited. Tickets are required to view the ceremony in person.  Students who are eligible to participate in the ceremony requested tickets during registration and will receive their tickets when they pick up their cap and gown.

Guests can watch a livestream of commencement from home or view a live feed in the Welcome Center Ballrooms if they don’t have a ticket.

When attending commencement at the Welcome Center, please note the following: 

• Doors open to guests 90 minutes before the ceremony.
• Accessible parking spots are available at the Welcome Center's north parking lot. Vehicles must have a placard or license plate on display.
• A designated drop-off area will be at the Welcome Center in the north lot.
• Please be aware that the Aims Clear Bag Policy is in effect for the commencement ceremony.
• Guests will be asked to return prohibited items to their vehicle or otherwise dispose of them upon entry. This includes:
  • Air horns or other loud noisemakers
  • Balloons or anything that could obstruct the view of other guests
  • Food and beverages except water in clear bottles
  • Firearms, knives, and other weapons

There are more upcoming celebrations for Aims students. These include:

• Fire Academy Graduation | May 17 | 11 a.m. | Public Safety Institute | Windsor Campus
• Aims Police Academy Graduation | May 17 | 2 p.m. | Public Safety Institute | Windsor Campus

To request accommodations for these events, call 970-339-6388 or email disabilities@aims.edu. 

Find more information at aims.co/commencement.