State College of Florida, Manatee-Sarasota, graduation at a glance

State College of Florida, Manatee-Sarasota, graduation at a glance

Graduates: 247

Speaker: Edie Deane-Watson, an expert in creative leadership, customer engagement and staff empowerment

Shining moment: Emily Arthur, an associate-level student, being honored with the college's Outstanding Graduate Award for superior leadership, academic achievement and community service. The Manatee County resident was visibly moved to win the award over three other finalists.

Best quote: "As anyone would say, the students are what make up the heart of the college -- and a piece of my own heart will always remain with SCF," a beaming Arthur said after receiving the Outstanding Graduate Award.

This story was originally published December 18, 2015 at 12:00 AM with the headline "State College of Florida, Manatee-Sarasota, graduation at a glance ."