MANSFIELD, OH (CRAWFORD COUNTY NOW)—North Central State College celebrated the academic achievements of its students during its 2025 Commencement Ceremony on Friday, May 9. The event took place at 7:00 p.m. in the Campus Recreation Center on the Main Campus, with family, friends, faculty, and local leaders in attendance.
Of the 390 students invited, 280 participated in the formal celebration. The evening commenced with a traditional procession from Ovalwood Hall to the Recreation Center.
The keynote address was delivered by Ohio House Speaker Matt Huffman, who offered words of encouragement to the graduating class.
A poignant moment occurred when a posthumous associate degree in Criminal Justice was awarded to Summer Kay Kennard. Kennard, who had previously graduated with honors from the NC State Police Academy and served as an active police officer for the Bellville and Butler Police Departments, passed away unexpectedly in a car accident on February 3 while en route to work. Her parents, Dawn and Matthew Kennard, accepted the degree and were met with a standing ovation.
In total, 635 students graduated from North Central State College in 2025, earning:
- 20 bachelor’s degrees
- 318 associate degrees
- 297 certificates
- 84 associate degrees earned by high school students prior to their high school diplomas
- 52 LPN certificates
President Dorey Diab offered his congratulations to all the graduates. “This class exemplifies the spirit of perseverance and service,” Dr. Diab stated. “We are proud to send these graduates into the world equipped to make a meaningful impact in their communities and professions.”