OCTC to Award Nearly 1,000 Credentials Across Two-Day Commencements

May 13-14, 2025

by Bernie Hale

Owensboro, KY (05/08/2025) — Owensboro Community & Technical College (OCTC) will celebrate the achievements of its Class of 2025 with commencement ceremonies on Tuesday, May 13, and Wednesday, May 14, at the RiverPark Center in downtown Owensboro. Both ceremonies will begin at 6:30 p.m.

During the two-day event, the college will confer 993 credentials to 547 graduates. Due to the high number of participants, OCTC has scheduled the ceremonies across consecutive evenings to accommodate families and guests without limitations.

"We're incredibly proud to celebrate this milestone year with so many accomplished graduates," said Dr. Scott Williams, OCTC President. "The decision to host ceremonies across two evenings allows us to utilize the RiverPark Center venue while ensuring every graduate can share this special moment with their loved ones."

Tuesday's ceremony will honor students receiving certificates, diplomas, and Associate in Applied Science degrees, while Wednesday's event will recognize those earning Associate in Arts, Associate in Fine Arts, Associate in Science, and Veterinary Technology degrees.

The college will also celebrate its 2025 KCTCS Scholars-Purani Kannan and Julia Mullen-recipients of the prestigious statewide academic honor.

Tuesday, May 13 Highlights:

Commencement Address: Justin Kurz, Nursing program graduate, Outstanding Program Student in Nursing, and IV League nursing club officer

Special Music: OCTC Chorus Ensemble performing "Here's to Song" under the direction of Dr. Connie Ford

Pre-Commencement Events: Nursing Pinning Ceremony - 4:00 p.m., Cannon Hall, Radiography Pinning Ceremony - 5:00 p.m., Jody Berry Theatre

Wednesday, May 14 Highlights:

Commencement Address: Purani Kannan, Early College student from Daviess County High School, earning dual Associate degrees while serving as Phi Theta Kappa honors chapter President and Student Government Association Vice President

Special Music: "Over the Rainbow" performed by Scott Napier, Coordinator for OCTC's Capital Bluegrass and Traditional Music (mandolin), and Dr. Connie Ford, Professor of Music (flute)

Pre-Commencement Event: Veterinary Technology White Coat Ceremony - 5:00 p.m., Jody Berry Theatre

A graduation rehearsal will be held on Monday, May 12, at 3:30 p.m. at the RiverPark Center. All participating graduates are encouraged to attend.

Students unable to attend their designated ceremony may participate on the alternate evening.

The RiverPark Center is located at 101 Daviess Street in downtown Owensboro.

"This year's commencement represents a celebration of resilience and academic excellence," said Dr. Ashleigh Crowe, Vice President of Student Affairs. "By expanding to two ceremonies, we're creating a more intimate experience that honors each graduate's journey while welcoming their entire support network to share in this achievement."

For more information about OCTC's graduation ceremonies, please contact Bernie.Hale@kctcs.edu.