Heather Nielsen Heather Nielsen grew up in Brigham City, Utah where, upon graduating from a small Catholic high school, she started attending the University of Utah. During her time as a freshman at the U, Heather became overwhelmed with the size of her classes —many of which were held in auditoriums. In efforts to obtain a more personalized education Heather transferred to Salt Lake Community College where she was not only able to obtain the personalized education she wanted but was introduced to a world outside of SLCC. Heather’s memories of SLCC are mainly from the Taylorsville Redwood campus where she met Professor Françoise Hibbs, French language professor, who introduced and encourage her to go on the study abroad program. Creating a connection and a community enriched her experience as a student on campus. When asked to share a piece of advice to her fellow Bruins, Heather’s mindset reinforces the wisdom she obtained throughout the years. “Build relationships with classmates a
Keynote speaker emphasized that graduates should pursue their dreams while also pursuing liberty and freedom for all. On Thursday, May 4, Salt Lake Community College proudly celebrated the achievements of more than 3,000 graduates during its 2023 Commencement Ceremony at the Maverik Center in West Valley City. SLCC’s Class of 2023 is comprised of 3,330 students, including 1,497 who are first-generation college students and 154 who are military veterans. Graduates range in age from 16 to 76, and most earned degrees are from the school’s general studies and general education programs followed by nursing, business and psychology. “This year, SLCC is celebrating its 75 th anniversary, and today’s graduates join a legacy of trailblazers dating back to 1948,” said SLCC President Deneece G. Huftalin. “Many of these students began their college journey two years ago during one of the most challenging times in modern history. Through it all, our graduates have demonstrated determination and