More than 220 students attended Riverland Community College’s 70th graduation ceremony Friday night at Austin High School’s Knowlton Auditorium.

This year, 610 Riverland students include those from Austin, Albert Lea and Owatonna campuses who’ve completed associate degrees, certificates and diplomas in various courses of study. According to James Douglass of Riverland’s communications department, graduates ranged from age 17 to 73.

And numbers were slightly up from last year. In 2010, 546 completed degrees, and 211 walked the isle.

Despite the state of higher education and economy in Minnesota, Riverland President Dr. Terrence Leas said this class should have a positive outlook.

“They’ve got these new skills that are in higher demand as businesses and local government become more environmentally aware,” he added.

Leas referred to Riverland’s electric and wind power programs, which prepare students for jobs locally.

The event was fitting at Knowlton Auditorium, too, as former Hormel CEO Dick Knowlton received an honorary Doctorate of Education degree for his donations toward education at all levels.

“He has been so passionate about supporting education locally,” Leas said. “He and his wife have given very generously to the Austin Education Foundation.” Leas added, Knowlton has made many scholarships at Riverland possible and has influenced others to donate toward education, as well.

Scott Thiss, Board of Trustees chairman for Minnesota State Colleges and Universities and Riverland theater instructor Jerry Girton, who will soon retire, provided remarks, as well.

But spectators also recognized the students. Vera Ndumbe and Glen Beckmann, graduates, both gave speeches at the ceremony. Ndumbe, an international student from Cameroon, received her associate in arts and associate in science degree in Human Services and will attend Winona State University this fall to complete her Bachelor’s in social work. Beckmann received his associate in computer technology and said he plans to start a career.

Sixteen post-secondary students also graduated from Riverland and will graduate high school this year.

“It’s an evening of celebrations,” Leas said. “They’re going to leave us with skills that employers need.”