SOUTH PORTLAND — Southern Maine Community College celebrated its 78th Commencement on Sunday, May 18, honoring the Class of 2025 for their achievements, perseverance and contributions to the SMCC community.
A total of 1,149 graduates were awarded 1,246 degrees and certificates during the Portland Cross Insurance Arena ceremony. The event brought together graduates, families, friends, faculty and staff to celebrate academic and personal accomplishments.
Graduates hailed from across Maine, other New England states and countries worldwide. Many continue their education at four-year institutions, while others enter Maine’s workforce in key industries such as health care, law enforcement, manufacturing and creative services.
SMCC President Kristen Miller reminded graduates that they are, and always will be, part of the SMCC family.
“Today, we celebrated not just your academic accomplishments, but the bright future you are capable of creating,” Miller said. “As you leave SMCC, remember — you will always be a part of this community, a part of our family. And like any family, we hope you’ll come back, visit often and stay connected.”
Gabe Hoffman-Johnson, founder and chief community officer of Portland Hearts of Pine, Maine’s first professional soccer team and featured speaker, encouraged graduates to embrace their potential and lead with purpose, “Recognize it’s you who is the master of your fate, the captain of your soul. Go let your light shine. The community will be better for it. Maine will be better for it. The rest will take care of itself.”
Maine Community College System President David Daigler acknowledged the graduates’ achievements while also emphasizing the extraordinary efforts of College employees who helped make their success possible.
“Each of these students, in one way or another, has benefited from incredible support from faculty, full-time and adjunct alike, who invest their heart and soul to help students succeed,” Daigler said. “They’ve also been supported by hard-working teams in advising, registration, financial aid, TRIO, tutoring, facilities and so many others who show up every day to create a welcoming, supportive learning environment. This year was especially challenging, and I want to thank everyone who took on additional responsibilities and rose to the occasion.”
Student Senate President Kristiana Cox delivered a message of urgency and self-belief to her fellow graduates, encouraging them not to wait to make an impact.
“Even though it’s important to sleep,” Cox said with a smile, “do not lay on your potential. Do not let it rest unused, waiting for some perfect moment or someone else’s permission. You are capable now — right now. The dreams you have, the ideas you carry, the change you want to see in the world — it all starts with you. Not tomorrow. Not someday. Today.”
To view a replay of the ceremony, visit www.youtube.com/@smccme.
For a full photo gallery, visit SMCC’s Flickr at https://flic.kr/s/aHBqjCeCaB.
Visit www.smccME.edu/commencement for event video and to learn more information about the 2025 Commencement.
