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Columbia State Celebrates Graduates at Spring 2025 Commencement
Columbia State Community College celebrated 310 degree and certificate candidates as they crossed the stage during the spring commencement ceremonies in the Webster Athletic Center on Saturday, May 10. In total, 572 students are anticipated to graduate in Spring 2025.
Dr. Janet F. Smith, Columbia state president, celebrates graduates at the Spring 2025 Commencement ceremonies.
Dr. Janet F. Smith, Columbia State president, opened the ceremony by welcoming degree and certificate candidates, faculty, staff and guests.
“Today is a special day for several reasons,” Smith said. “First and foremost, it is a day of celebration of accomplishments. It is a day of recognition that these soon to be graduates set a goal and accomplished it.”
Smith introduced graduates William Cary, Levi Fritsch and Julian Peacock as the guest speakers for the spring commencement ceremonies. Cary delivered the commencement address for the first ceremony while Fritsch and Peacock delivered the address for the second ceremony.
Cary, who has previously earned a bachelor’s and master’s degree, chose to focus his speech on growing and investing in personal education at any age.
“No matter when you start, it’s the determination to finish that matters,” Cary said. “This journey has not been easy. There have been long nights balancing work, school and personal commitments. There have been moments of self-doubt, wondering if I could really make this new career work. But with each class, each lesson and each assignment, I’ve proven to myself that it’s not about where you start, but where you’re willing to go. And what I’ve learned is that it’s never too late to chase what sets your heart on fire.”
He then spoke on the theme of career preparedness and growth as a message to his fellow graduates.
“As we look toward the future, many of us are entering new careers,” Cary said. “For some, it’s a completely different field; for others, it’s a new chapter in an existing path. But one thing is certain — we are more prepared than we’ve ever been before. We’ve invested in ourselves, in our growth and in our futures. We’ve taken the knowledge we’ve gained and turned it into a stepping-stone to new opportunities.”
Columbia resident William Cary earned a technical certificate in accelerated advanced emergency medical technology. He has previously earned a bachelor’s degree in psychology and criminal justice from the University of Tennessee, Knoxville, and a master’s degree in health and human performance from the University of the Cumberlands. Cary now plans to pursue an Associate of Applied Science degree in nursing at Columbia State; with the goal to later continue his education with further degrees in nursing and emergency medicine. Cary shared his thoughts on Columbia State by stating, “The smaller class sizes make it easier to ask questions and build connections, and there are great resources like tutoring, advising and career services that really helped me stay on track. Whether someone is planning to transfer or go straight into the workforce, Columbia State provides a solid foundation for the future.”
For his address, Fritsch spoke about how the choices people make, no matter how small, can compound and influence the journeys people take in life.
“Every day, you can choose one of two options: move towards your goals or take the side street,” Fritsch said. “Consistent effort is the decisive factor in success. Make a little progress every day, and the results add up quickly. What's more, every fork in the road shapes your character. Show up every day and you'll be the type of person who shows up every day. Ignore responsibilities for the day, and it will become a habit.”
He ended his speech with a message of encouragement to push forward into each day.
“No journey is possible without the first step,” Fritsch said. “This is true whether you're going to Argentina, towards a life goal or waking up in the morning. Start your day off right with a small success to get the ball rolling.”
Columbia native and Tennessee Promise student Levi Fritsch graduated with an Associate of Science degree in computer science. He now joins his sister, Hannah Fritsch, as a Columbia State alumnus. During his time at Columbia State, Fritsch became SGA vice president, Sigma Kappa Delta treasurer and was a member of the President’s Leadership Society, TRiO, Phi Theta Kappa honor society and S.T.E.M. Club. He plans to continue his computer science education at Lipscomb University. When asked how Columbia State prepared him for his future, Fritsch said, “Columbia State prepared me for my future by getting me used to the school environment. This is especially important to me as a homeschooler. I've become much more socially capable, can now speak in front of others and have had a taste of leadership as well.”
The final speaker of Spring 2025 Commencement ceremonies was Julian Peacock. For his speech, he touched on his experience with belonging and finding a community.
“When I say I’m not supposed to be here, what I really mean is that I couldn’t have done this alone, without the combined effort of my family, friends and the whole of Columbia State; a sentiment I’m confident we all share,” Peacock said.
He ended his speech on a theme of graduates reinvesting in their communities and to society as a whole after they have received support throughout their time at Columbia State.
“It is now our task to take that value and invest it into the communities and principles that are important to us,” Peacock said. “Despite the varying and diverse goals we had when we arrived, we leave this room unified in experience. I’m eternally grateful for what this college has done for all of us.”
Columbia resident and Summertown native Julian Peacock graduated with an Associate of Arts degree in philosophy. Peacock now joins his brother, Jonah Peacock, and sister, Radha Peacock, as Columbia State alumni. During his time at Columbia State, Peacock served as vice president of leadership for Phi Theta Kappa honor society, as well as vice president and historian for Sigma Kappa Delta honor society. Next, he plans to pursue a bachelor's degree at a New York City university. He has also won several awards including the English Academic Discipline Award, the Philosophy Academic Discipline Award and the Academic Excellence Award. When asked if he would recommend the college to others, Peacock stated Columbia State "is a great option for traditional and non-traditional students alike. Columbia State allows its students to explore their interests and learn about themselves. I would encourage my friends and family, or anyone else to take a chance on themselves and take advantage of a great opportunity to attend college here.”
Closing the ceremony, the alumni induction of new graduates at the first ceremony was presented by Caitlyn McNabb, Columbia State Tutoring and Learning Center coordinator for the Williamson Campus and Columbia State alum, and Brittany Ebey, Spring 2025 graduate. At the second ceremony, the alumni induction was presented by Dr. Benjamin Womer, Columbia State associate professor of economics and Columbia State alum, and Maggie McCarl, Spring 2025 graduate.
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President’s Leadership Society graduates were also honored with a medallion at the commencement ceremony.
“The establishment of this society was based on the belief that leadership is inherent to our lives and that we all have leadership roles,” Smith said. “The President’s Leadership Society is open to all students at Columbia State and requires only their commitment to involvement for learning, participation and helping others.”
Formed in spring 2011, PLS is a free leadership training program focused on developing a student’s unique leadership skills from their first semester through graduation. The program focuses on participation in college-sponsored programs that promote educational attainment, career choices, volunteerism and civic responsibility.
During the course of the program, students attend a leadership retreat, enjoy exposure to the arts, participate in workshops and campus life, develop civic understanding and give back to the community through volunteerism.
Students received the President’s Leadership Society medallion for completing all requirements of the leadership training program prior to graduation. Throughout the program, students attend a leadership retreat, enjoy exposure to the arts, participate in workshops and campus life, develop civic understanding and give back to the community through service. Pictured (left to right): Levi Fritsch; Melissa Pressley; Evelyn Fisher; Tia Miller, Columbia State student development coordinator and President’s Leadership Society advisor; Dr. Janet F. Smith, Columbia State president; Heer “Sam” Patel; Faith Bone; Naomi Weaver; and Maggie McCarl. Not pictured: Isabella Barcus.
Nashville native Kaitlin “Lin” McKinney graduated with an Associate of Science degree in communication studies. McKinney was a member of the Phi Theta Kappa honor society. She was also a recipient of the Communication Studies Academic Discipline Award. Next, she plans to continue her studies at Belmont University to pursue a bachelor’s degree in communication studies with an emphasis in early childhood education. When asked why she chose Columbia State, McKinney responded, “Each director, staff and faculty member I talked with was truly supportive and made efforts to listen to my concerns and desires. I felt at home within minutes, and I experienced an optimism I did not know was possible. Columbia State was the best choice for the creative and innovative individual that I am, and I will always be grateful towards this community.”
Lewisburg resident Heer "Sam" Patel graduated with an Associate of Science degree in political science. During her time at Columbia State, Patel was an SGA senator for the Lewisburg Campus, a member of Sigma Kappa Delta honor society, a member of PLS and participated in the Tennessee Intercollegiate State Legislature. Next, she plans to continue her studies at Middle Tennessee State University to pursue a bachelor’s degree in political science with the ultimate goal to work in the U.S. Capitol. When asked how Columbia State has prepared her for her future, Patel responded, “This place has made me a better and more confident individual than I ever was. This place has truly brought me out of my comfort zone and has made me challenge myself and not give up, ever. I really love this place a lot.”
Leoma resident and Tennessee Promise student Kade Shultz graduated with an Associate of Science in Teaching degree in secondary education - social studies. While at Columbia State, he supported the Chargers Baseball program as a student assistant. When asked how Columbia State prepared him for his future, Shultz said, “Columbia State prepared me well. The people I came in contact with — whether that was through baseball with my coaches, or through academics and the campus director at Lawrence County and being around those people there — they just allowed me to get one step closer and allowed me to get through the last couple years. So, I'm thankful for that.”
Lawrenceburg native and Tennessee Promise student Samantha Staggs graduated with an Associate of Applied Science degree in nursing. While at Columbia State, Staggs was a part of the Lady Chargers softball team. She now plans to continue her education online while working as an RN at Maury Regional Medical Center. When asked if she wanted to share anything about her time at Columbia State, Staggs responded, “I have loved all of my time at Columbia State, and I have even made friends that I will have for a lifetime here. I am so grateful for the opportunity to pursue my dream to become a nurse and still play softball. I could not have done it without the students and staff support here at Columbia State.”
Nashville resident Simeon Williams graduated with his university parallel (general transfer) Associate of Science degree. While at Columbia State, Williams helped the Chargers basketball program to a Tennessee Community College Athletic Association Tournament Championship win in 2025, as well as an appearance at the National Junior College Athletic Association Division I Men's Basketball tournament. He was also a Statewide Outstanding Achievement Recognition Awards nominee. Williams now plans to pursue a bachelor’s degree in kinesiology with the goal of earning a physical therapy or chiropractic degree. When asked if he would recommend Columbia State to others, Williams said Columbia State “has a great community behind it, and it's always welcoming, and you'll find people that will help you navigate throughout the school year and whatever you need.”
Nolensville resident Evelyn Fisher graduated with an Associate of Science degree in music. While at Columbia State, Fisher was a member of PLS, the College Choir and the Jazz and More Club. She also spent her summers volunteering at a local library. After taking a gap year, she plans to pursue her bachelor’s degree at Middle Tennessee State University to earn her teaching license with the ultimate goal of becoming a middle school choir teacher. When asked how Columbia State prepared her for her future, Fisher stated, “The choir and J.A.M. has taught me a lot about myself and to build my own self confidence through hard work and dedication. I would not be here where I am today without Columbia State and the people here. I thoroughly enjoyed my time and hope more future students have the same experiences as me.”
Thompson’s Station resident Melissa Pressley graduated with an Associate of Science in Teaching degree in secondary education - social studies. While at Columbia State, she was a member of PLS and the Cycling Club. Pressley’s artwork titled, “The Pigeon in the Garden,” was featured in the 2025 edition of Columbia State’s “Perceptions: A Journal of the Arts.” She now plans to travel the country and abroad before going back to school. When asked what she is most proud of during her time at Columbia State, Pressley stated, “I had extensive knee surgery shortly after two of my grandparents passed away. I still made my way in the school with my parents’ and professors’ help, and Cycling Club helped to fast-track recovery/physical therapy and helped bring the Williamson Campus students together.”
Brentwood native and Tennessee Promise student Naomi Weaver graduated with an Associate of Applied Science degree in business with an emphasis in administrative professional technology. She now joins her brothers Martin Weaver and Dominic Weaver as alumni. While at Columbia State, she was a member of the PLS and the Sigma Kappa Delta honor society. She plans to enter the workforce later in the year as a personal assistant. When asked if she would recommend Columbia State to others, Weaver said, “It is a great community college. The students and teachers are always kind, and the curriculum has helped me learn what I need to successfully get a job and keep it.”
Franklin resident and Tennessee Reconnect student Tami Hart graduated with her Associate of Applied Science degree in business. She joins her two daughters, Mikayla and Miranda Hart, as Columbia State alumni. While at Columbia State, she received an Academic Excellence Award, as well as the Constantine and Mary Vrailas Scholarship and the Brentwood Woman's Club Scholarship. Hart plans to continue her full-time job while taking professional development classes. When asked if she would recommend Columbia State to others, Hart stated, “I think it is so important for people to understand that college is not a one-size-fits-all experience. No matter what one is seeking to gain, Columbia State provides an exceptional opportunity for individuals of all ages, backgrounds and educational experiences.”
