Luzerne County Community College celebrates graduates with inspiring stories

Thursday May 29, 2025

FOX 56 NEWS AT TEN

By: Jake Sarwar

Tears of joy and prideful cheers filled Mohegan Arena on Thursday as nearly 600 Luzerne County Community College students received their degrees.*

The ceremony served as a testament to the hard work and determination of the graduates, with a special story highlighting the event.

Shelby Ford, a 32-year-old graduate, shared a unique connection to the college, recalling how she had once crossed the graduation stage while in her mother's womb.

"I got to walk across the stage back then, and it planted the seed of possibility for myself and my family," Ford said,

Ford expressed gratitude for her mother's influence, saying,

"She's been my number one source of inspiration. She's an incredibly hard worker and a self-starter. I have her to thank for all those qualities that I have as well."

LCCC President John Yudichak praised Ford and her commitment to education.

"She reflects the modern student, who is a nontraditional student. What she's achieved personally, what she's achieved in terms of her family and raising her children, and still earning a degree, is the best reflection."

Yudichak, completing his first year as president, expressed his excitement about the ceremony.

"What I take the greatest pride in is the smiles on the faces of these graduates and their family and friends that have gathered to celebrate a very hard-earned achievement, earning a college degree," he said.

During the ceremony, Ford was honored with the college's Alumni Association Outstanding Graduate Award for her academic excellence and campus involvement.

"Getting this honor of being the outstanding graduate means so much to me. I know that my kids will get to see that, and they have something to strive for and to be proud of," Ford said.

The graduates ranged in age from 17 to 64, reflecting the college's mission to serve all students.