Kent State Ashtabula graduates spring class
Good, a 2008 graduate of Lakeside High School, represented the class and shared how chemical dependency delayed college for her on several occasions, but also put her on a road to help others.
'I am in remission for multiple substance abuse disorders,' she said.
She said she is proud to be a part of the first class of Kent State Ashtabula students to earn a Bachelor of Social Work degree, and plans to continue to work as a licensed chemical dependency counselor and social work assistant in addition to her roles as mother, aunt, sister and daughter.
'Who you were, who you are and who you will become are three different people,' she said.
Gina Carlucci, of Conneaut, was busy taking selfies during the procession but was ready for the big night.
'[I am] nervous but excited to be here with my friends,' she said.
Jason Tirotta, manager of strategic communications and marketing for KSU regional campuses, said the planning for a graduation usually begins right after the last one is complete. He said there were about 100 graduates this spring, with 62 walking across the stage.
He said 62 was the largest number of students participating in graduation since the coronavirus pandemic. Tirotta said the management staff does a great job of coordinating all the people participating and making sure everyone knows where to be.
Kent State University Ashtabula Dean and Chief Administrative Officer R. William Ayers IV greeted students and their families. He thanked families for all the sacrifices they made to help students to the culmination of this phase of their education.
He also thanked the students for all of their input into the lives of others while at the Kent campus as they juggled work and family obligations.
Ayers also thanked Andrew Luoma, a long-time member of the school's IT department, for his work.
Heather Tulino was honored with the Community Service Award for her creation of a non-profit organization entitled Adam's Angels, which assists the homeless.
She was unable to attend because she was also receiving a lifetime achievement award for her work at the Cleveland Clinic.
Staci Hall was honored with the Roger T. Beitler Distinguished Former Student award. Hall worked for the past 10 years in the charitable food network in a variety of ways.
She said she hopes students use all they learn as they go out into their future endeavors.
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