At the 2025 Commencement ceremony on May 16th, three Arizona Western College students celebrated a very special night for their family. Maria Molina, an AWC employee, and her daughter and son celebrated the completion of their associate degrees on the same night.

All in the family: Mother, daughter, and son celebrate triple graduation

May 21, 2025

Yuma, Ariz. (May 21, 2025) – At the Arizona Western College Commencement on Friday, May 16th, a family of AWC students celebrated a triple graduation as Maria Molina and her two children, Brianda and Luis Molina, earned associate degrees on the same night. 

Maria Molina has been an AWC employee for the past four years, currently working as an Administrative Assistant in the Facilities department. Her daughter, Brianda, joined her in earning an associate degree in Business, and her son, Luis, graduated from the Early College program with an Associate of Science. He will be celebrating his graduation from Gila Ridge High School later this week. 

“I would never have thought I would be honored to walk the line beside my children,” Molina shared. “Becoming a mom at a young age, my goal was always to push my children to their full potential. As much as I annoyed them, I told them daily that the sky is beyond the limit and anything and everything is possible. While I was telling them, my husband was telling me.  I am beyond proud of my babies.”

Now that they have earned associate degrees, the Molinas each have plans for continuing their education. In the fall, Luis is planning to attend Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University in Florida to pursue a bachelor’s degree in aerospace engineering. Mother and daughter will continue studying at AWC, with Maria pursuing an Occupational Certificate in Logistics before transferring to NAU to complete a Bachelor’s in Logistics & Supply Chain Management. Brianda will seek an Associates of Applied Science in Welding with plans to join the U.S. Air Force. 

The triple graduation the Molinas celebrated this year showcases the diverse pathways available at AWC. Whether you're a high school student exploring Early College courses, a recent graduate starting your journey, or an adult returning to the classroom, AWC provides flexible and accessible programs to meet students where they are. 

Click here to explore what AWC has to offer!

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Contact:
Mandy Heil    
Dean of Marketing and Communications
Arizona Western College
mandy.heil@azwestern.edu
(928) 314-9594

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