Inspiring Stories from the LCCC Class of 2025: Shelby Ford (Alumni Association Outstanding Graduate Award Winner)

As the Class of 2025 approaches graduation at Luzerne County Community College (LCCC), one student's journey is particularly heartwarming. Shelby Ford, a 32-year-old mother of two, finds herself following in her mother's footsteps. In a remarkable twist of fate, Shelby was literally carried across the stage during her mom's graduation from LCCC in 1992, as her mother, Linda Jean Nitka, was nine months pregnant with her at the time.*

For Shelby, the decision to attend LCCC was infused with personal history and family pride. "Choosing to go to LCCC because my mom went here makes the experience even more meaningful," Shelby shares. "If she could accomplish this while pregnant, then I can certainly follow her path as a mother of two."

Shelby is currently an Integrated Media Design major, a field in which she can unleash her artistic talents in practical ways. "I can design everything from websites to augmented reality experiences, and even print materials," she explains. Art has long been a passion for Shelby. Starting as a musician at seven, she learned to play the guitar, wrote songs, and even put on performances for her family. Her love for art continued to evolve as she engaged in various creative pursuits such as drawing and special effects makeup.

A significant turning point for Shelby came when she took her first art class with her instructor, Denise Evans, who she credits with helping her realize her true identity as an artist. "Winning the Times Leader's Best of the Best Artists in 2024 is something I owe to her guidance," Shelby reflects proudly.

In addition to her studies, Shelby has turned her passion for art into a thriving business called "The Pink Punk," specializing in face painting. Her entrepreneurial spirit allows her to blend creativity with community engagement. "I started my business while in school, and it has grown significantly since then," she shares.

Shelby credits her degree with equipping her with the skills to successfully promote her business through social media, creating posters, flyers, and videos. "It's amazing to look back at the progress I've made. The work I did initially compared to now is truly incredible," she says.

As graduation approaches, Shelby Ford stands as a beacon of inspiration, proving that a strong legacy can guide and motivate the next generation. Her journey is not just about earning a degree; it's about continuing a family tradition, nurturing her creativity, and paving the way for her children to follow their dreams.