WALNUT, Calif.—California’s top fiscal officer and one of the NFL’s top linebackers will headline Mt. San Antonio College’s 65th commencement ceremony on Friday, June 17, beginning at 6:30 p.m., at the campus stadium.State Controller John Chiang, who has served as California’s chief fiscal officer since 2006, will deliver the commencement address to the Class of 2011. His presentation will be followed by the recognition of this year’s “Alumnus of the Year,” former Super Bowl NFL linebacker Antonio Pierce.
Pierce attended Mt. SAC and played for the Mounties during the 1996 and 1997 seasons. A star linebacker and team captain, he led the Mounties to their first national championship in 1997. After graduating in 1998, he played for the University of Arizona and later signed as a free agent with the Washington Redskins. The New York Giants signed Pierce in 2005, and he became the team’s defensive captain, helping the team win Super Bowl XLII in 2008. Today Pierce is an ESPN commentator and volunteers for programs that improve the lives of underprivileged youth.
During the ceremony, Mt. SAC will recognize outstanding members of the Class of 2011 and award associate degrees to hundreds of graduates who actively participate in the ceremony. In all, more than 2,400 degree petitions were filed. The youngest graduate is 19; the oldest is 65. Additionally, 19 candidates will receive Bachelor of Science in Aviation Management degrees in conjunction with Southern Illinois University.
Mt. SAC will also recognize the retiring faculty and academic managers, including Dr. John S. Nixon, who is retiring as president and chief executive officer of the college, effective June 30.
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