Monday, August 11, 2025
photos by Alexandra Butler, photographer/photo editor
Wildcat basketball player and two-time athlete of the year Gavin P. Barrett, of Union, N.J., is among 140 students who petitioned to graduate during Pennsylvania College of Technology’s Summer 2025 Commencement. Barrett is followed closely by teammate Michael R. Woolridge, of Hollidaysburg. Both completed bachelor’s degrees in business administration.
Penn College’s Summer 2025 Commencement, held Saturday at the Journey Bank Community Arts Center, welcomed the college’s newest graduates, many of whom will help ease workforce shortages in the health care industry.
The student speaker was Whendy E. Marshall-Magallon, of York, who received a combined Bachelor/Master of Science degree in physician assistant studies. She also received the Russell M. Trapp Professionalism Award, presented to a graduate who exemplifies ideals consistent with the physician assistant profession as exhibited by exceptional commitment, comportment and attitude.
President Michael J. Reed conferred degrees and certificates upon the latest graduates.
Physical therapist assistant students gather in a Genetti Hotel ballroom for "lineup" before the graduates walk to the Journey Bank Community Arts Center next door.
Surgical technology grads – led by director Elizabeth S. Gizenski (left), program director – make their way to the arts center in style.
Tamaka F. Carter, a financial aid counselor who began singing the national anthem at commencement when she was a student, again offers a goosebump-worthy rendition.
“Here you are,” physician assistant studies graduate Whendy Marshall-Magallon, of York, tells her fellow grads, “proof that hard work, sacrifice and determination can take you farther than you ever imagined.”
Physical therapist assistant graduates stand for the conferral of their associate degrees.
Veteran graduates stand for recognition.
Joanna K. Flynn, vice president for academic affairs and provost, bestows a hood on Gabrielle R. Henry, a physician assistant studies graduate from McClure.
Jennifer J. Chestnut, physician assistant for College Health Services, prepares to present a diploma to her niece Grace M. Chestnut, of Cogan Station, who earned a degree in physician assistant studies.
Ashley N. Rich, graduating with an associate degree in physical therapist assistant, is joined on stage by her mother, Tammy M., associate professor of business administration/management/event management.
An Island Photography staff member (left) captures the moment.
Bailey M. Riley, celebrating a bachelor’s in business administration, indulges a photo opportunity with his family, including mom Cheryl E., donor services specialist for the college.
The Madigan Library sets the background for a red, white and Wildcat blue parting shot.
Get Penn College News in your inbox each morning.