Chaffey Celebrates CIW Commencement

Annamaria Gana missed her son’s high school and college graduations while serving a life sentence in prison.

But that didn’t stop her from pursuing a college education for herself. While telling her story to family, friends and Chaffey College employees during her own commencement ceremony Dec. 6, she feared that her son would miss her graduation too.

“My family was supposed to be here today,” she said. “I don’t know where they are.”

Moments later, her face lit up when both Gana’s son and aunt walked inside the gymnasium where the ceremony was held at the California Institution for Women.

Gana and five other women from CIW’s 11^th graduating class celebrated completing coursework to receive associate’s degrees and certificates.

“Thank you, Chaffey College for giving me this chance,” she said. “I hope today is a confirmation that you did not waste your resources on me.”

CIM Associate Warden Delinia Lewis acknowledged that the graduates faced challenges that made them want to give up, but they did not.

“This is a very important day in your life,” she said. “You are now scholars.”

Chaffey College Governing Board President Deana Olivares-Lambert congratulated graduates for finishing what they started.

“Like your classmates who attend our three campuses in the Inland Empire, the achievements you are celebrating today will leave a lasting impression on your family members, and particularly your children,” she said.