News Summary
On May 2, 2025, Columbia College held its commencement ceremony, conferring 175 degrees to graduates. Dr. John H. Dozier emphasized the importance of service over titles, and alumnus Jenn Colella inspired graduates to embrace their unique identities. The event highlighted significant achievements and included the Ivy Chain Ceremony to honor connections among classmates. Columbia State Community College also announced its graduation event for May 10, 2025, with security measures and a live stream for remote attendees.
Columbia – On May 2, 2025, Columbia College held its commencement ceremony at the Columbia Metropolitan Convention Center, conferring a total of 175 undergraduate and graduate degrees to its graduating class. This event marked a celebration of the graduates’ perseverance, growth, and accomplishments while reaffirming the college’s mission of preparing leaders, dreamers, and change-makers.
Dr. John H. Dozier, the president of Columbia College, provided an address during the ceremony, highlighting the significant achievements of the graduates and the college’s prestigious history of over 170 years. He acknowledged the essential roles played by faculty, staff, and the families of graduates in supporting their educational journeys. The college’s motto, “Non Quem Sed Quid” — meaning “Not who, but what” — was emphasized by Dr. Dozier, who conveyed that true worth is defined by the service one provides to others, rather than by titles or wealth.
Caleb Mack, a participant in the Call Me MiSTER program, delivered the student address, inspiring his peers to sustain their perseverance and energy in their future endeavors. Mack’s phrase “Keep. That. Same. Energy” served as a motivational reminder of the resilience and commitment needed for ongoing success.
The ceremony also featured a keynote address by Jenn Colella, a Tony-nominated actress and alumna of Columbia College’s class of 1996. Colella was awarded an honorary Doctor of Arts degree for her contributions to the field of arts. Her address encouraged graduates to embrace their unique identities, suggesting that the world awaits their “messy brilliance.”
As the graduates transitioned their tassels from right to left, Dr. Dozier urged them to cultivate boldness in purpose, constantly seek wisdom, serve others generously, and remain connected to each other and the college. The Ivy Chain Ceremony, a tradition that has been observed for 125 years, took place the day before the graduation, symbolizing the enduring connection among classmates and the institution.
Sgt. First Class Eddie Fofana, who flew from Germany to be part of the ceremony, graduated with a Master of Science in Criminal Justice Administration. Fofana previously obtained a bachelor’s degree through Columbia College’s online program. He expressed appreciation for the college’s military-friendly environment and the flexibility it afforded him during his military career.
In addition to the commencement ceremony at Columbia College, Columbia State Community College announced its own graduation event, slated for May 10, 2025. William Cary, Levi Fritsch, and Julian Peacock were selected to deliver commencement addresses at this event. Cary, graduating with an accelerated advanced emergency medical technician certificate, aims to pursue a career in healthcare. Fritsch will graduate with an Associate of Science degree in computer science and has been actively involved in various college organizations. Peacock, who has been dual-enrolled since the age of 14, is set to graduate with an Associate of Arts degree in philosophy. He plans to continue his education by pursuing a bachelor’s degree at New York City University.
Columbia State also plans to enforce security measures during its commencement ceremony, restricting the presence of certain items such as weapons, alcohol, and glass containers. Additionally, the ceremony will be streamed live, allowing remote viewing for guests unable to attend in person.
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Additional Resources
- Cola Daily: Columbia College Celebrates Class of 2025
- Columbia Tribune: Columbia College Graduate Travels 5000 Miles to Attend Ceremony
- Columbia Daily Herald: Columbia State Announces Spring Commencement Ceremony Speakers
- Wikipedia: Columbia College
- Google Search: Columbia College commencement 2025
