WORCESTER, Mass. – Quinsigamond Community College held its 59th commencement ceremony at the DCU Center in Worcester.

More than 1,200 students graduated from the school Friday.

QCC President Luis Pedraja commended the graduates at Friday’s ceremony, noting their resilience and growth.

State Senator Robyn Kennedy was the commencement speaker.

While speaking to students, she acknowledged how important collaboration is and how graduates will face newer societal challenges, but said they'll have an even greater opportunities to make a positive impact.

“By being here today, you have proved to our community and to those who look up to you that you are better than good enough. You are what our world needs now,” said Kennedy. “And we acknowledge that the world you were graduating into is vastly different from the one that existed just a few years ago.”

Pedraja also spoke to graduates about continuing to rely on the school's alumni network for support, community and guidance.