Family and friends sent wave after wave of applause over a sea of deep blue- and dark green-robed graduates at Napa Valley College’s 83rd annual commencement ceremony on May 15.

According to the college, 693 students will receive their diplomas as part of the Class of 2026. During the ceremony Friday at Memorial Stadium, graduates walked across the stage to receive handshakes and some were met with a bubble shower as they made their way back to their seats.

Among those celebrated Friday, some 20% were the first in their families to receive a college degree, according to NVC. Nearly one-quarter of the Class of 2026, meanwhile, received multiple degrees. For more photos, see Page N2