MCC hands out 'grad bags' to December graduates

Meridian Community College handed out grad bags today at the Ivy-Scaggs Hall for December graduates and will also hand them out tomorrow from 10am to 2pm. The bag includes the graduate’s diploma cover, honor cords, graduation program, a cap and tassel as well as more special surprises. The college started the grad bag pick up last semester when COVID-19 struck. The fall 2020 graduates will have a virtual graduation on December 18th at 10am, which can be accessed on the college Facebook page.

“It’s been a tough few semesters for students and anything we can do to bring a little joy to their lives right now, as far as just coming through and getting a grad bag--that may make them happy,” said Dean of Student Services, Deanna Smith. “Basically anything we can do to make our students feel special because we want to celebrate this time for them.”

Santa Claus was at the grad bag pickup to spread some holiday cheer and congratulate the graduates on their accomplishments.

“I heard the students at Meridian Community College were graduating and I know they’ve had a tough semester so as far as I’m concerned, they’re all on the nice list,” said Santa Claus. ”So we thought we’d just come down here and just give them congratulations and help the college hand out grad bags.”

The college says the virtual graduates are welcome to attend when they are able to have a traditional graduation ceremony.