by Staff Writer
Carroll Community College is set to celebrate a significant milestone as it hosts its 32nd Commencement ceremony on Wednesday, May 28, at 3:00 p.m. at the Gill Center on the McDaniel College campus. With approximately 500 graduates, the Class of 2025 represents one of the largest graduating cohorts in the College’s history.
“As we celebrate this milestone, I am filled with pride and gratitude,” said Dr. Rose Mince, who is marking her first Commencement as President of Carroll Community College. “We are so happy our graduates chose Carroll as their partner in higher education, and we are honored to have been part of their learning experience. As I mark my first commencement as president, I am especially moved by the resilience and accomplishments of this incredible community.”
The ceremony promises to be an emotional and inspiring celebration, highlighting the perseverance and achievements of a diverse student body. Among the graduates are 73 trailblazers who are the first in their families to earn a college degree, and 11 dually enrolled students who are receiving their college diplomas before even finishing high school. Additionally, 20 graduates are earning more than one degree or certificate, showcasing their extraordinary commitment and ambition.
“It is a gift to be exhausted by a challenge you chose for yourself,” reflected Meg Adiya, a graduating engineering student from Eldersburg. “My time at Carroll hasn’t been easy—engineering is a difficult major to pursue. But now, standing at the finish line, I’m reminded this is exactly why my parents sacrificed—to give me this opportunity. I’ll carry that with me as I continue my education at my transfer school.”
Adding to the celebration, this year’s Commencement speaker is David Bollinger, a long-serving trustee of the College. Bollinger, who has been a member of the Board of Trustees for 24 years and served two terms as Board Chair, will address the graduates with reflections on his time and service.
“Serving on the Board of Trustees for the past 24 years has been one of the greatest honors of my life,” said Bollinger. “To now address this graduating class as the commencement speaker—and to be named Trustee Emeritus—is both humbling and deeply meaningful. Carroll Community College has always stood for opportunity, excellence, and community, and I am proud to have been part of its journey.”
Two standout students will also be honored during the ceremony. Marely Ann Mujica-Cruz will receive the prestigious President’s Academic Excellence Award, and Brooke Tober has been selected to deliver the Student Response.
As the College looks forward to this celebration of academic achievement and community spirit, it is also proud to note that 32 percent of graduates planning to enter the workforce will remain in Carroll County—strengthening the local economy and enriching the community that supported their academic journeys.
For the Carroll community—students, families, faculty, and staff—this year’s Commencement is more than a ceremony. It is a heartfelt reminder of what’s possible through dedication, education, and the support of a caring community.
