Goldsboro, N.C. — With the sun shining brightly and excitement radiating through the air, Tuesday, May 13, became a day of pride, reflection, and new beginnings at Wayne Community College. The institution held its 2025 graduation ceremony, drawing a large crowd of family members, friends, faculty, and community supporters who gathered to celebrate the academic and personal achievements of this year’s graduates.

Held on campus, the commencement ceremony honored students from across all academic divisions, including Applied Technologies; Business and Computer Technologies; Public Safety; Allied Health and Public Services; and Arts and Sciences. Each graduate walked the stage as a symbol of perseverance, determination, and the power of education to transform lives.

As attendees filled the venue, the energy was both electric and emotional. Chairs were adorned with balloons and congratulatory signs as proud families prepared to witness their loved ones achieve a life-changing milestone. Some came from nearby communities, while others traveled hours to be part of this important occasion. For many, this was the first college graduation they had ever attended—some celebrating first-generation college graduates within their families.

Graduates entered the ceremony to the sound of traditional processional music, wearing caps and gowns that symbolized years of dedication. For some students, the journey was marked by balancing school with full-time work, raising families, or overcoming personal and financial challenges. Despite the obstacles, they arrived at this moment with pride, dignity, and a sense of accomplishment that cannot be measured by grades alone.

During the ceremony, stirring messages of encouragement and congratulations were shared by college leaders and faculty members. The importance of community, resilience, and lifelong learning echoed through the speeches, reminding graduates that while this chapter is closing, a world of opportunity is now opening before them. The event was not only a culmination of academic success but also a call to use that knowledge for the betterment of their communities and professions.

Dr. Patty Pfeiffer; The President of Wayne Community College, expressed how proud she was of the graduating students. “You persevered, reached a goal you have set for yourself and no matter how long it took, you made it to graduation day,  ” Pfeiffer said. “You should be very proud”

Several students were visibly moved as they crossed the stage. Some raised their hands in triumph, others fought back tears, and a few paused to take in the moment fully before accepting their diplomas. The ceremony was punctuated by rounds of heartfelt applause, standing ovations, and bursts of joy from the audience. Children ran into the arms of their graduating parents, friends embraced tightly, and faculty members watched with admiration as their students stepped into the next chapter of their lives.

Wayne Community College has long prided itself on providing high-quality, accessible education tailored to the needs of its students and the local workforce. This year’s graduating class reflects that mission, with students preparing to enter a variety of fields, including healthcare, information technology, skilled trades, criminal justice, and education. Many graduates will soon begin jobs in essential industries throughout Wayne County and beyond, while others plan to transfer to four-year institutions to continue their academic journey.

The event also served as a reminder of the supportive community that surrounds the college. Faculty and staff worked tirelessly behind the scenes to ensure a memorable and seamless ceremony. Volunteers greeted guests, directed graduates, and helped families locate their seats. The collective effort demonstrated the college’s commitment not only to education but also to creating meaningful experiences that uplift and inspire.

As the ceremony drew to a close, graduates turned their tassels from right to left, a symbolic gesture signifying the official conferral of their degrees and diplomas. Laughter and cheers filled the air as caps were tossed skyward in celebration. The ceremony may have ended, but the pride, joy, and sense of accomplishment lingered long after the last photo was taken.

The 2025 Wayne Community College Graduation was more than just a ceremony—it was a celebration of dreams fulfilled, goals achieved, and futures bright with possibility. With new credentials in hand and the support of their college community behind them, the Class of 2025 now steps forward to write the next chapter in their lives, prepared and empowered to lead, serve, and succeed.