Chaffey College Celebrates Commencement at the California Institution for Men

Yu Yu Chou fought through self-doubt, a language barrier and a belief that education wasn’t important.

The California Institution for Men inmate faced those doubts head on and carried a Chinese-English dictionary with him to Chaffey College classes. He not only passed but earned the top spot as valedictorian.

“Some of us were told when we were young that we’d never amount to anything,” he said. “Look at us now.”

Chou, one of 31 men earning degrees and certificates at the Chaffey College 2026 Commencement at CIM on May 8, credited faculty and staff with helping him and his classmates succeed.

“Thank you for believing in us and for treating us with dignity,” he said.

For many graduates, the gathering served as more than an academic celebration. It was also a family reunion.

Tyler D. Martin-Brand, serving as class speaker, congratulated graduates on reaching an incredible milestone. But first, he had an important message for someone in the audience.

“Hi, mom!” he said.

Alberto Gonzalez-Penaloza, earning two degrees and a certificate, called family the driving force behind the class of 2026 achieving its goals.

“Personally, I am grateful because after 11 years I am having the opportunity to hug my dear grandmother, Soco, my nephew, Diego, and sister-in-law Bru. I love you very much!”

CIM Warden Eric Mejia commended graduates for succeeding in their degree and certificate programs.

“Getting a college degree anywhere is an achievement but doing it in here with all of the challenges you have faced is a testament to your dedication, motivation and discipline,” he said.

Chaffey College Superintendent/President Henry D. Shannon encouraged graduates to have faith in themselves, lean on family members for support and associate with friends who lift them up to continue their path of success.

“Your story’s not finished,” he said. “Not by a long shot.”