UEI Garden Grove Celebrates First Graduation of 2026 with State and Federal Leaders

UEI College in Garden Grove proudly marked its first graduation ceremony of 2026 by celebrating the accomplishments of its graduates alongside distinguished state and federal leaders who champion workforce education.

The ceremony featured keynote remarks from California Assemblymember Tri Ta, a longtime advocate for career-focused education. Assemblymember Ta has previously visited the UEI College Garden Grove campus and returned once again to help honor graduates as they reached this important milestone.

Graduates were also recognized at the federal level, with Congressman Derek Tran providing congressional letters of recognition to every member of the graduating class. While Congressman Tran was in Washington, DC for the start of the January legislative session, he sent his District Representative to deliver remarks on his behalf and commend graduates for the meaningful impact of their chosen career paths.

“Whether your work is hands-on, people-focused, or behind the scenes,” the message shared, “it matters, and it makes a difference every day.”

In his address, Assemblymember Ta expressed gratitude to the UEI Garden Grove faculty, staff, and instructors, as well as to the family and friends whose support helped graduates reach this achievement.

“You all make a difference not only for your families and your community,” he said, “but also for the state of California.”

Reflecting on the evolving workforce, Assemblymember Ta highlighted the growing importance of skilled training in today’s economy, particularly as new technologies reshape industries.

“In this new era—what I call the era of AI—trade school is more practical than ever,” he noted.

He concluded with one of the most powerful messages of the ceremony, affirming graduates’ impact and the promise they hold for the future.

“You are making a difference for the state of California. You are our hope because you are our future.”

The ceremony celebrated not only academic achievement, but also the resilience, dedication, and potential of UEI Garden Grove graduates as they step into careers that strengthen their communities and shape California’s future.