First Graduates
Eighty-five students, who comprised the OWJC charter graduation class, received their diplomas at commencement exercises on May 1, 1966.
The graduation ceremony was held in Perrine Park in the heart of the college's original campus in Valparaiso. More than 600 people gathered for the occasion. Judge Harold B. Crosby, president of the University of West Florida at the time, delivered the commencement address. Graduates received their diplomas from OWJC president Dr. J. E. McCracken. Steve Harold Adams was the first graduate to receive his diploma.
Mark Hopkin, president of the 1965 OWJC Student Government Association made a presentation to the college on behalf of the graduating class -- a portrait of Dr. McCracken. The commencement speaker was Harold B. Crosby, president of the University of West Florida. The class song presented by the OWJC Chorale and Trombone Ensemble.