WHAT: Rio Hondo College will celebrate the graduation of its inaugural class of Bachelor of Science degree recipients in Automotive Technology as part of a historic state program that allows select community colleges to offer four-year degrees.

Sixteen students will be lauded during a celebratory graduation dinner featuring remarks from Board of Trustees President Gary Mendez, President/Superintendent Teresa Dreyfuss and Dean of Career Technical Education, Instructional Operations and Apprenticeships Mike Slavich.

The event will include testimonials from students Perla Veloz and Lee Esten and a presentation of graduation stoles by College administrators.

WHEN: 5:30 to 8 p.m. Friday, May 17

WHERE: Rio Hondo College Automotive Technology Lab, 3600 Workman Mill Road, Whittier

DETAILS: Rio Hondo College launched its Bachelor of Science degree in Automotive Technology with upper-division courses in fall 2016 as part of a pilot program. The degree offers concentrations in Business/Marketing and Technical Expertise as it prepares students for a variety of positions in the transportation industry.