The Berkeley High School library hosted the Bridge Program’s class of 2026 graduation ceremony on Tuesday, May 12, 2026, honoring Cohort 13, one of the program’s largest graduating classes. Bringing together students, teachers, counselors, and family members for an evening that included dinner, graduate speeches, and a sash ceremony highlighting each student’s plans after high school. During the ceremony, the close-knit community celebrated four years of perseverance and the graduating class’ next steps beyond high school.
The Bridge Program supports low-income students and first-generation college students of color in their transition from BHS to college. Counselor Jasdeep Malhi opened the night by speaking about what the program represents. “We are celebrating the strength in the community to empower and uplift all of you, guiding you toward your complete potential as you take these next steps into the world,” she said.
Several graduates spoke about how the program shaped their high school experience. “When I first joined Bridge, I didn’t know what to expect,” Charlize Villamizar said. “It became a place I looked forward to going to every day,” Villamizar said. Noelia Marin Ramos reflected on the academic support she received, stating, “There were countless moments where I felt unsure about myself and was overwhelmed by academics. Throughout everything, Bridge provided me with resources and opportunities.”
Others spoke about personal challenges they faced. “This year has been the hardest year of my life,” Juelz Grimes said. “When I needed people the most, they were the ones who believed in me and reminded me of my potential. (Bridge) taught not to let my struggles determine my future,” Grimes said.
The ceremony closed with the sash portion of the evening, where graduates were individually recognized alongside photos and information about their next steps after BHS. Scholarships were also presented to students who embodied the Bridge Program’s values. Graduating BHS senior Josue Sotelo Garcia and his parents handed out a special scholarship dedicated to Josue’s older brothers, Jazy and Angel, former Bridge students who were lost to gun violence in 2023.
Cohort 13’s main counselor, Jennifer Hammond, encouraged graduates as they move forward. “If you have a dream, don’t let anyone tell you you can’t attain it,” she said.