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With pride, reflection, and a message to “seize the day,” Lincoln Trail College honored the Class of 2025 during its 55th Annual Commencement Ceremony on Friday, May 16, in the Sports Center.
The ceremony began with a processional by the Brassmasters and a warm welcome from LTC President Tona Ambrose, who congratulated the graduates and recognized the people who helped them reach the milestone.
“What an honor to see you all sitting here in front of me getting ready to cross the finish line and graduate!” said Ambrose. “Your accomplishments at this college have proven to us – to your family and friends – and everyone that you are amazing beyond measure.”
Ambrose also introduced the ceremony’s theme, built on the acronym “L.T.C.” — Lean In, Take it up a notch, and Carpe Diem. “Be a difference maker,” she told the graduates. “Engage actively with life, don’t be a passenger. Go after [opportunities] and never be afraid to fail forward.”
Two graduating students addressed the audience as commencement speakers.
Kylee Hosman, a student-athlete, reflected on her time at LTC through the lens of a powerful lesson she learned early on: “You don’t have to do anything. You get to do everything.”
“President Ambrose taught us to see our responsibilities not as burdens, but as privileges,” said Hosman. “We didn’t have to put in countless hours of studying, writing papers, and pushing through challenges—we got to. And today, we don’t have to graduate—we get to.”
Hosman encouraged her classmates to carry that mindset with them. “See challenges as stepping stones, not roadblocks. Treat each opportunity as a privilege, not a chore.”
Nolan Hillard, a graduate of the nursing program, shared his journey to LTC after first earning a degree in sports administration.
“I never imagined I’d end up here,” he said. “But life has a funny way of redirecting us to where we’re meant to be. Choosing nursing—choosing this path—has been one of the most meaningful, fulfilling decisions of my life.”
Hillard encouraged graduates to “choose a career where you’re irreplaceable” and to build lives that reflect both their values and aspirations.
“A degree doesn’t define your worth. You do,” Hillard said. “Be someone who makes an impact—not just at work, but in life. Because once you become someone who brings value, you become someone who can’t be easily replaced.”
After Director of Marketing Chris Forde read each graduate’s name, Trustee Barbara Shimer officially conferred the degrees and certificates. She had the Class of ‘25 move their tassels from the right to the left of their mortar boards, signifying them as graduates of Lincoln Trail College.
Dean of Instruction Cyndi Boyce offered closing reflections, recognizing both the achievements of the graduates and the support systems behind them.
“Your time here at Lincoln Trail College has been more than just about academics — it’s about community, connection, and resilience,” said Boyce. “This day is as much a reflection of your hard work and sacrifices as it is of [your family and friends].”
Boyce encouraged the Class of 2025 to continue growing beyond graduation.
“This is merely the beginning of a new adventure,” she said. “Whatever you do next, remember that you have the power to shape your own future.”
Following the awarding of degrees and certificates, the evening concluded with a recessional to Edward Elgar’s Pomp and Circumstance performed by the Brassmasters Brass Quintet.
