West Covina Mayor Letty Lopez-Viado Inspires UEI Graduates
Joy and community pride took center stage on Friday as UEI College West Covina celebrated the achievements of its graduating Class of 2026. Highlighting the milestone event, City of West Covina Mayor Letty Lopez-Viado delivered an uplifting, heartfelt keynote address that resonated with graduates, faculty, and families alike.
Mayor Lopez-Viado emphasized that hands-on career training builds far more than technical capability:
“Your education is more than a certificate or a diploma. It represents the skills you gain, the confidence you build, and the belief that you are capable of achieving your dreams.”
The Power of the Human Touch in Essential Careers
Addressing the enduring value of essential, skilled professions in an evolving world, the Mayor highlighted the unique strengths UEI graduates bring to the workforce:
“You should all be proud of the professional fields you are entering, where people will still need people. Nothing, including AI, can replace compassion, skilled hands, critical thinking, or the human connection your profession requires. Your work may not make headlines, but it will make a difference. It makes our community stronger.”
A True Community Celebration
Demonstrating her personal support for the new alumni, Mayor Lopez-Viado stayed through the very end of the ceremony, personally shaking hands with every graduate as they crossed the stage. In a memorable high point of the day, she even joined campus administration for an impromptu, celebratory dance to Kool & the Gang’s “Celebration.”
To mark the occasion, the Mayor also presented Executive Director Irma Pirone with an official city Certificate of Recognition, honoring the campus’s dedication to student success and local workforce development.
Congratulations to the UEI College West Covina Class of 2026 on your remarkable achievement!
