If things go according to her plan, the commencement for this year’s graduation will some day work for the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) to help end world hunger.
That is the dream of Ashley Vicera, who on June 10, Pierce College graduates of 2025 will receive a goodbye speech from at the 77th Commencement Ceremony that will take place on campus at Shepard Stadium at 8 a.m.
Initially, Vicera applied for the commencement speaker contest when her friend, Joean Tongson, forwarded the Instagram story to her. Vicera wrote the first draft of her speech overnight but has continued to make revisions for graduation day.
Tongson said Vicera has a natural stage presence and powerful voice.
“What makes her speech unique is the way she brings words to life. She has a flair for the dramatic and a poetic touch that turns ordinary phrases into something truly inspiring,” Tongson said. “She will not only proudly and powerfully represent the Asian community, but she’ll also leave a lasting impression on everyone who hears her speak.”
As an economics major, Vicera immigrated from the Philippines four years ago and started her Pierce journey in spring of 2023. It was difficult to build friendships outside of highschool which is why Vicera formed the Asian Pacific Island Club at Pierce College. She found community and support where she worked as a student worker in the Welcome Center and registration assistant at Admissions and Records.
Vicera said it’s an honor to be able to give the speech.
“This is going to be my first time speaking to thousands of people,” Vicera said. “I am scared and nervous, but it’s like my love letter to Pierce and saying goodbye to my peers. Pierce has been a wonderful community for me.”
Vicera’s speech will include her immigrant story and what motivated her to pursue education despite hardships. She will also include the importance of finding the right community of people and perfect timing.
“Pierce has been a really pivotal part of my life, and especially since I moved here four years ago from the Philippines,” Vicera said. “Pierce has been really important to me, it has a special place in my heart. As someone who came from a foreign country, it’s nice to be surrounded by a good community.”
Every year communication faculty members volunteer to assist graduation speakers to strengthen their speech. This year, communications professor Jennifer Rosenberg has been guiding Vicera in revising her speech with grammar corrections, and building a foundation for the speech.
“Ashley has a wonderful, authentic speaking style, and it is truly a pleasure to work with her,” Rosenberg said. “I truly believe that many students will be able to relate to her experience and perspective.”
Vicera is working toward a bachelor’s degree in economics with an emphasis in pre-law. She plans on transferring to the University of Southern California in the fall of 2025, and aspires to work in government public policy or UNICEF to do humanitarian works for economical or financial departments
Vicera wants to tell students that it’s never too late to follow their dreams.
“No matter how old you are, no matter how financially broke you are, there’s always ways that you can get that education if you wish to do so,” Vicera said.
