The Lead.
Marion Technical College proudly celebrated 452 graduates in a moving ceremony at the Marion Palace Theatre this May. Together, these students earned a total of 603 degrees and certificates. This included 12 graduates from the new Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program.
Graduates ranged in age from 16 to 64 and hailed from 27 Ohio counties. They include 15 veterans.
“This is an incredible achievement! Our graduates have shown resilience, determination, and an unwavering commitment to their goals,” said Dr. Ryan McCall, president of Marion Tech. “We are so proud of each and every one of them. Their success reflects the power of education to transform lives – and this is just the beginning.”
Record Number of High School Students Receive Associate’s Degrees
A record 46 high school students who earned associate degrees at no cost through the College Credit Plus (CCP) program. This saves each student and their family nearly $13,000 or $600,000 collectively. Here are the totals of students earning an associate’s degree by school district:
- Cardington: 2
- Delaware Hayes: 1
- Harding: 5
- Mohawk: 1
- North Union: 1
- Northmor: 2
- Pleasant: 15
- Ridgedale: 3
- River Valley: 7
- Riverdale: 8
- Wynford: 2
These students are among 1,870 middle and high school students who earned college credit through the CCP program. The dual enrollment program has multiple benefits in addition to the savings on Marion Tech’s already low tuition.
“Marion Tech’s data shows that students who earn early college credits (even if they do not earn a full degree) graduate from a two- or four-year colleges at a much higher rate than students who do not earn early college credits. They learn the strategies needed to succeed in college,” said Dr. Bob Haas, Provost and Chief Strategy Officer at Marion Tech.
Graduates Overcame Obstacles
Of these graduates, 108 students are the first generation of their families to graduate from college. The average age of Marion Tech students is 27. Many students juggle full-time work and family demands as well as their coursework.
Elizabeth Arthur of Marion is among those graduates. Half-way through spring semester, Arthur was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis and had to relearn to walk. She credits support from her professors, family members and fellow students with helping her cross the stage to receive her diploma.
“Graduating isn’t just about grades or credit hours or a final GPA. It’s about what we had to overcome to get here. It’s about the fact that we showed up, again and again,” Arthur said.
More Info
Find the full list of graduates here. For more information, email us.
