PERRYSBURG, Ohio – Owens Community College celebrated its Spring 2025 Commencement Thursday, May 8 and Friday, May 9, in the Center for Fine and Performing Arts Theatre on the Toledo-area campus. The ceremonies honored the accomplishments of hundreds of graduates representing a wide range of academic programs.
Families, friends, faculty, and staff gathered to cheer on students earning associate degrees and certificates in fields such as healthcare, business, public safety, technology, and skilled trades. For many, the day marked the culmination of months of determination, sacrifice, and academic achievement.
As students crossed the stage in traditional caps and gowns, many wore decorated mortarboards that reflected their personal journeys, passions, and those who supported them along the way. Some caps featured heartfelt messages and photos honoring family and friends, while others displayed inspirational quotes, favorite artists, movie titles, or cultural references.
Graduate Marquis Williams used his cap to tell a personal story.
“My cap has pictures of myself going through school, facing hardships and hard times,” Williams said. He added, “It shows memories of myself growing up—just me evolving as a person.”
Not all students opted to decorate their caps—some cited time constraints, as designing a cap can take several hours or even days.
“It took me about a day,” Williams noted. “You want to make sure you get the right pictures and really show what your journey has been.”
Once the ceremony concluded, celebration filled the campus. Graduates and their supporters posed for photos, shared emotional hugs, and marked the milestone with pride and excitement for what’s next.
Owens Community College continues to serve as a vital resource for affordable, high-quality education and career training in northwest Ohio. Its programs support both immediate career readiness and seamless transfer to four-year institutions.
The Spring 2025 Commencement was more than a ceremony—it was a powerful moment of achievement, community, and transformation. The decorated caps were a colorful reminder that behind every degree is a unique and meaningful story.
Congratulations to the Owens Community College Class of 2025!