Ozarka College celebrated graduates during the commencement ceremony and reception, held recently on the Melbourne campus. Ozarka's Commencement ceremony took place on Thursday, May 8 at 6:30 p.m. in the auditorium of the John E. Miller Education Complex in Melbourne, Arkansas.

During the ceremony, Dr. Ken Warden, Arkansas Division of Higher Education Commissioner, delivered the commencement address congratulating the graduates on their achievement and inspired them to dream big, be kind, work hard, and surround themselves with people of good character. He then wished them well in their careers. Lance Pinkston was announced as Faculty of the Year and will be honored at the upcoming Arkansas Community Colleges conference. In addition, Tanner Hoskinds was announced as Ozarka Alumni of the Year recognizing his significant contribution in the area for education and coaching achievements.

"We are so very proud of our 2025 graduates! We had an outstanding Commencement ceremony highlighted by our speaker, Dr. Ken Warden who provided an inspiring address to students, " said Dr. Josh Wilson, Ozarka College president. "I want to thank all the families and friends who joined us to celebrate their graduates' achievements. "

The 2024-2025 academic year recognized 160 associate degrees, 119 technical certificates, and 173 certificates of proficiency. The class included 11 students honored as Summa Cum Laude with a 4.0 GPA, 28 students honored as Magna Cum Laude with a 3.75 - 3.99 GPA, and 32 students honored as Cum Laude with a 3.5 - 3.74 GPA.

Congratulations to all 2025 graduates! For additional information on these accomplishments or about Ozarka College, please call 870.368.2300.