Gallatin, Tennessee – December 13, 2025 – Volunteer State Community College (Vol State) proudly celebrated its graduating class at a commencement ceremony on Saturday, December 13, 2025, honoring students ranging in age from 18 to 71 who completed programs across a broad range of academic and professional disciplines. The ceremony highlighted the remarkable dedication, perseverance, and achievements of graduates who balanced studies with work, family, military service, and personal commitments.
Dr. Wendi Tostenson, President at Volunteer State Community College shared, “Commencement is one of the most inspiring moments of the year. It is a tremendous honor to stand before graduates whose stories reflect resilience, courage, and an unwavering commitment to bettering their lives and their communities.” She added, “Today, we celebrate not only their remarkable academic achievements, but also the bright futures they have worked tirelessly to create.”
“Our students have achieved outstanding academic success while balancing jobs, families, and personal challenges,” stated Dr. Richard Rhoda, Interim Vice President for Academic Affairs. “These successes are strengthened by the meaningful relationships they form with our faculty, whose guidance and expertise help equip students with the skills needed to advance into the next stage of their lives.”
Family members, friends, faculty, and staff filled the venue with energy and applause as graduates crossed the stage, representing a wide variety of career paths and educational journeys. The event recognized not only academic excellence but also community service, leadership, and the spirit of determination that is pioneered by Vol State students.
Vol State extends its heartfelt congratulations to the Class of 2025 and looks forward to seeing the many ways these graduates will continue to enrich the communities they serve.
For more information about Volunteer State Community College and its programs, visit volstate.edu, or view the graduation ceremony video at volstate.edu/graduation.
