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MANSFIELD – North Central State College proudly held its 2025 commencement ceremony on Friday, May 9 in the Campus Recreation Center on the Main Campus.
The college celebrated the academic achievements of its students in a ceremony attended by family, friends, faculty, and local dignitaries.
Out of 390 students invited to participate, 280 graduates joined the formal celebration. The evening began with a traditional procession from Ovalwood Hall to the Recreation Center, symbolizing the transition from student life to the next stage in each graduate’s journey.
The keynote address was delivered by Matt Huffman, Speaker of the Ohio House of Representatives, who shared words of encouragement and inspiration with the graduating class.
A posthumous degree was awarded to Summer Kay Kennard, who previously graduated with honors from the NC State Police Academy. Summer was an active police officer for the Bellville Police Department and the Butler Police Department.
She passed away unexpectedly due to an automobile accident on Feb. 3, 2025, on her way to work.
NC State presented her associate degree in Criminal Justice, which was accepted by her parents, Dawn and Matthew Kennard, during the ceremony. They were greeted with a standing ovation.
In total, 635 students graduated from North Central State College in 2025. This included:
20 bachelor’s degrees.
318 associate degrees.
297 certificates.
84 high school students who earned their associate degree prior to receiving their high school diploma.
52 LPN certificates.
President Dorey Diab extended heartfelt congratulations to all graduates, acknowledging their hard work, resilience, and dedication.
“This class exemplifies the spirit of perseverance and service,” Diab said. “We are proud to send these graduates into the world equipped to make a meaningful impact in their communities and professions.”
Additional images of the ceremony can be found at https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1RcRAg3XYr_9dPVSYS0sLxc9VGEFSJP0K?usp=sharing.