On May 9, Chattanooga State Community College conferred degrees and technical diplomas to more than 900 students spanning 45 years in age and originating from four continents. Friends, family members, faculty, and community supporters gathered to celebrate this milestone with graduates. 

The graduating class of Spring 2025 included 924 students with an average age of 26. The youngest 10 graduates were 17 years old, and the two eldest were 62. Graduates came from both the United States and nine other countries: Belarus, Brazil, the Dominican Republic, Germany, Guatemala, Iraq, Mexico, the Philippines, and India. Thirty-one percent were the first in their families to earn a college degree or diploma. 

College President Dr. Rebecca Ashford announced 42% of graduates plan to transfer to a four-year university, while 58% intend to go directly to work. Of the 924 graduates, 29% are armed forces veterans. 

While every graduate is inspirational, Dr. Ashford shared the stories of three students who overcame great odds to make it to the graduation stage. 

Mother-daughter duo Nicole Parris and Nalani Sims earned associate degrees together this semester. Through ChattState’s Dual Enrollment program, Nalani earned both her high school diploma and an associate degree simultaneously, while Nicole launched an educational journey that will lead her to a career in psychology. 

Reflecting on her journey, Nicole said, “You’re here for a reason. Figure out what that reason is and go toward it.” 

Another remarkable story came from Ajaya Kennedy, who crossed the stage on graduation day. Ajaya, whose mother died in a car crash when she was only two years old, was raised by her great-grandmother, Theora. Bonded by early loss, Ajaya and Theora found joy and healing in the arts, attending musical theater performances together throughout her childhood. 

This spring, Ajaya earned her associate degree in Theater Performance. She will transfer to the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga this fall, continuing a tradition created in her childhood. 

“Ajaya was raised by her incredibly strong great-grandmother, Theora Kennedy, or Mamaw, as Ajaya calls her,” Dr. Ashford said. “Theora ensured that Ajaya was raised in a home that values education.” 

Whether they are pursuing further education, launching a new career, or simply proving to themselves that they can accomplish great things despite difficult obstacles, ChattState congratulates these 924 graduates and wishes them success in all their future endeavors. 

“Graduates, as you move on to the next phase of your lives, I encourage you to approach life with a sense of gratitude,” Dr. Ashford said. “When you are grateful—when you focus on what you have rather than what you lack—you bring more joy and abundance to your life. I encourage you to be grateful even for the challenges that you face, and there is no doubt that you faced challenges as you pursued your education.”