HILLSBORO, Mo. – Jefferson College honored the Class of 2025 with two commencement ceremonies on Saturday, May 17, at the Hillsboro campus field house. The events recognized students who completed degrees and certificates in fall 2024, spring 2025 and the upcoming summer 2025 terms.
A total of 706 students graduated this year, earning 589 degrees and 122 certificates across more than 50 academic and career-focused programs. Some graduates are headed to four-year universities, while others are moving directly into the workforce.
“We are extremely proud of the resilience, perseverance and determination our students have shown,” said Dena McCaffrey, president of Jefferson College. “Commencement is our chance to celebrate what they’ve achieved.”
Brian Millner, president and CEO of the Missouri Community College Association, delivered the keynote address. A longtime advocate for community colleges, Millner was invited in recognition of his work helping institutions like Jefferson College grow and support student success.
Nearly 67 percent of graduates earned transfer degrees, preparing them to continue their studies at the university level. The remaining 33 percent completed technical degrees or career certificates, many entering the workforce with hands-on training and credentials in high-demand fields. The Class of 2025 also included 77 students who earned certificates with distinction, 127 who graduated cum laude with a GPA between 3.5 and 3.79, 35 who finished magna cum laude with a GPA from 3.8 to 3.99 and 47 students who graduated summa cum laude with a perfect 4.0 GPA. In addition, 50 Early College students earned a degree or certificate while still completing high school.
The ceremonies were open to the public, and a livestream was offered for those who couldn’t attend in person. Recordings of the ceremonies can be viewed at www.jeffco.edu/commencement.
About Jefferson College
Jefferson College is a leading institution of higher education located in Hillsboro, Missouri, dedicated to providing accessible, affordable, and high-quality learning opportunities. With a mission to serve the educational and workforce needs of the community, Jefferson College offers a wide range of associate degrees, certificate programs, and workforce development initiatives designed to prepare students for success in an ever-evolving economy. Known for its commitment to student success, innovation, and community engagement, Jefferson College fosters a supportive environment that encourages lifelong learning and personal growth for all students. Discover more at www.jeffco.edu.