Celebrating Success: UEI Albuquerque Honors Its First Graduating Class

UEI Albuquerque Celebrates Its First Graduating Class

On May 1, 2026, the United Education Institute (UEI) in Albuquerque proudly hosted its inaugural graduation ceremony, marking a significant milestone in its journey since opening last year. A total of 100 students were celebrated as they completed various vocational programs designed to prepare them for successful careers in high-demand fields.

The event was graced by the presence of New Mexico State Senator Michael Padilla, who not only served as the keynote speaker but also engaged with students and instructors behind the scenes before the ceremony. His visible commitment to the graduates resonated with the audience as he took the stage alongside Campus President Chris Callisto to personally hand out diplomas to each member of the Class of 2026.

In his moving address, Padilla urged the graduates to embrace their new roles as professionals and encouraged them to see each other as colleagues. "I want you to look to the left, look to the right… You are colleagues now," he stated passionately. "You're not just fellow students. You're not just neighbors. You are actually colleagues now, and I want you to lift each other up." His words emphasized the importance of camaraderie and support among peers as they step into the workforce.

Among the graduates was Destiny Garcia, the valedictorian for Allied Health programs, who expressed her gratitude saying, "Thank you, UEI for changing my life. All of our lives." Similarly, Jason Smolky, the skilled trades valedictorian, shared his inspirational journey of returning to education after a long hiatus since the 1980s. He encouraged future students to put in the effort to achieve their goals, stating, "I'm here to tell each and every future student, if you really put in the time, effort, and work into this, I promise you will be the next one on this stage receiving a diploma!"

President Callisto reflected on the event's significance, describing the graduation as not merely an ending but rather a new beginning for the graduates. "Watching our students transition from classmates to colleagues is the ultimate reward," Callisto noted. He highlighted the ceremony as a vital opportunity for community development, stating, "This ceremony isn't just a conclusion; it's the beginning of 100 new careers that will strengthen the fabric of the Albuquerque community."

UEI is committed to providing quality education and graduating students who are ready to tackle the demands of the job market. It offers various vocational and skilled trade programs that enable students to secure diplomas in as little as 10 months, including Medical Assisting, Medical Billing and Insurance Coding, Dental Assisting, HVAC, and Electrician Technician. Furthermore, the Albuquerque campus offers extensive support services, encompassing career advising and job placement assistance, to bolster students' transitions from education to employment.

For more updates and information regarding the programs at United Education Institute, visit uei.edu.