MANSFIELD, OH – North Central State College proudly held its 2025 Commencement Ceremony on Friday, May 9, at 7:00 p.m. 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 February 3 of this year, 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. We are proud to send these graduates into the world equipped to make a meaningful impact in their communities and professions,” Dr. Diab said.
About North Central State College
North Central State is a community college that serves students on its Mansfield campus, Kehoe Center in Shelby, and the Crawford Success Center in Bucyrus. The College is preparing this area’s workforce by offering more than 60 bachelor’s degrees, associate degrees, and certificate programs of study, which include comprehensive technical education in health sciences, general studies, public service, business, engineering technology, and corporate/community services. In addition to technical studies, North Central State College offers numerous Associate of Arts and Associate of Science degrees, which allow students to transfer credits to colleges and universities in the pursuit of advanced degrees.