Hawaii Community College — Palamanui graduated 139 students from the Kona campus this year with associate degrees and certificates. In addition, 56 students affiliated with the University Center, West Hawaii earned their degrees through distance learning from other University of Hawaii campuses.
Graduates and their families and friends celebrated on Saturday with a drive-through commencement ceremony at the Kona campus, with 66 students participating in the events.
Among this year’s graduates are 39 “dual-credit” students from West Hawaii Area Complex schools who are earning college degrees and certificates while in high school. This includes four Kealakehe High School students who completed Associate of Arts in Liberal Arts degrees at the same time they are earning their high school diplomas.