The Thomas & Mack Center was filled with excitement on Monday as the Class of 2025 celebrated their graduation. Friends and families cheered from the stands, while over 100 volunteers assisted in organizing the event, distributing glow sticks, and welcoming guests.
This year's graduating class consisted of more than 4,000 students, with ceremonies held both in the morning and afternoon to honor graduates from various fields of study. The College of Southern Nevada (CSN) achieved a significant milestone by awarding the highest number of bachelor's degrees in its history.
Among those recognized were 120 President’s Scholars who maintained a perfect 4.0 GPA. They attended a special meeting with Acting President Dr. William Kibler and incoming President Dr. Stacy Klippenstein before the ceremony.
Cody the Coyote was present for photo opportunities with graduates, but it was the students themselves who were highlighted throughout the event. Vice President of Academic Affairs Dr. James McCoy praised their determination: “Each of you has a story uniquely your own,” he said, emphasizing their hard work.
Dr. McCoy shared stories of several graduates who overcame personal challenges to earn their degrees, including Jessica Camp, Steven Martinez, Kenneth Freels, and Chung-Suk Yu.
Acting President Dr. Kibler offered advice inspired by Anna Quindlen’s "A Short Guide to a Happy Life," encouraging graduates to value relationships over achievements: “Don’t ever confuse your life and your work,” he advised.
Student speaker Hisonni Mustafa delivered an inspiring speech about perseverance while balancing school and fatherhood: “Education isn’t about being perfect. It’s about being persistent,” he stated.
As degrees were conferred, graduates illuminated the arena with glow sticks in celebration. Dr. McCoy concluded with words urging them to make an impact: “Look around you. You’re surrounded by hundreds of people who are about to change the world.”