Terra State Community College Celebrates 56 Years of Transforming Lives May 13

Terra State Community College Celebrates 56 Years of Transforming Lives

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erra State Community College proudly celebrated its 56th Commencement Ceremony on May 9, 2025, honoring the achievements of the Class of 2025. The ceremony, held in the newly renovated Elaine Denman Recktenwald Center, marked a significant milestone for the college and its graduates.

Dr. Schumacher, President of Terra State Community College, extended heartfelt congratulations to the graduates. "We congratulate all of you who represent the graduating class of 2025 for completing the requirements for graduation and welcome those of you who have come to share in the joy and celebration of this evening," said Dr. Schumacher.

This year's commencement was particularly special as it took place in the newly dedicated Elaine Denman Rectenwald Center, a facility enhanced through a generous gift and numerous upgrades, including a new weight room, exercise area, storage, and basketball and volleyball courts. Dr. Schumacher expressed gratitude to Fred Recktenwald, the State of Ohio, and the VP for Institutional Advancement for their contributions to the project.

Over the past several years, Terra State Community College has undergone significant improvements, including $5.56 million in updates for the skilled trades program lab, an energy efficiency project featuring a solar field, and achieving HLC accreditation. These advancements reflect the college's commitment to providing top-tier education and facilities for its students.

The Class of 2025 is composed of 222 students graduating with associate degrees in over 28 fields and 157 students earning certificates. Notable statistics about this year's graduates include:

• The average time to complete their degree was 4.5 years.
• The youngest graduate is 17 years old, and the oldest is 57.
• 13 graduates will receive their associate degrees and graduate from high school later this month.
• 20 graduates are earning dual associate degrees.
• 15 students have a 4.0 GPA, and 85 have a GPA of 3.5 or higher.
• 86 graduates transferred credits from other colleges/universities to Terra State.
• 6 graduates worked as student employees this year.
• 9 graduates are veterans.

Dr. Schumacher emphasized the importance of continuous learning and growth, encouraging graduates to take pride in their achievements. "Graduates, always be proud of your achievement, and never stop learning and growing. Remember that no one can ever take this accomplishment away from you!"

Benjamin Weber delivered an inspiring commencement address, reflecting on his journey at Terra State and the lessons learned along the way. His speech emphasized the importance of perseverance, growth, and finding fulfillment beyond the pursuit of one's dreams.

The ceremony also honored Ms. Ahmyre McCree with the 2025 Perseverance Award; Ms. Jada Breidenbach, Leadership Award; and Mr. Mason Johnson received the Academic Athlete of the Year Award.

The Terra State Board of Trustees approved a number of faculty members for promotion and tenure in April. Five faculty members received promotions: Instructor to Assistant Professor: Dennis Sullivan; Assistant Professor to Associate Professor: Crystal Cleary; and Associate Professor to Professor: Adam Hoss, Paul Passalacqua, and Michelle Younker. Crystal Cleary was awarded tenure.

Several individuals were recognized for retirement: Steve Bender - 25 years, Mark Grine - 25 years, and Laurie Fischer - 28 years.

Mircea Handru, Chair of the Terra State Board of Trustees, introduced the commencement speaker, Mr. Nicholas Cray, President and CEO of Fremont Federal Credit Union. Mr. Cray delivered a heartfelt speech, sharing his personal journey and the transformative power of education. He emphasized the diverse paths that lead to success and the importance of bravery, courage, and optimism in achieving one's goals. "Ladies and gentlemen of the class of 2025 - I'm proud of you. I'm proud of all that you've accomplished, and I look forward to seeing where your path takes you. Thank you, and congratulations on today's milestone."

Dr. Schumacher expressed his gratitude to Mr. Cray for his inspiring message and presented him with an Honorary Associate of Applied Business Degree in Business Management from Terra State Community College in recognition of his outstanding contributions to the country and standards of civic responsibility.

Jennifer Fehnrich, Executive Director of the Terra College Foundation and Vice President for Institutional Advancement, addressed the graduates with enthusiasm. "Congratulations, Graduates! You did it! Did you know that each of you will earn a new title this evening along with your degrees and certificates? On behalf of the Terra College Foundation Board, it is my distinct privilege to congratulate you and officially welcome you as 'Terra State Community College Alumni'! Some titles throughout your life will come and go, but this is one that you can proudly carry with you forever."

Terra State Community College remains committed to improving campus facilities and offering competitive academic programs to ensure student success. The achievements of the Class of 2025 are a testament to this commitment. To learn more about Terra State's degree offerings and admission process, visit terra.edu.