The College of Southern Maryland recognized 709 candidates for degrees and certificates during its 19th Winter Commencement held Jan. 18 at the college’s La Plata Campus. The college awarded 565 associate degrees and 481 certificates. Of the students receiving awards, 35 percent are from Charles County, 34 percent are from St. Mary's County, 25 percent are from Calvert County and 6 percent are from outside the region. Nearly 22 percent of all degree candidates for graduation earned a 3.5 grade point average or higher, with 17 percent graduating with honors.