College honors nearly 4,200 graduates, highlighting stories of resilience, transformation, and community impact.
Front Range Community College (FRCC) made history this May by celebrating its largest-ever graduating class—hosting two commencement ceremonies to recognize the achievements of nearly 4,200 students. From the youngest graduate at 14 to the oldest at 76, the Class of 2025 represents the very best of the Wolf Pack spirit: perseverance, passion and purpose.
The events, held at the Denver Coliseum and Blue Arena in Loveland, were marked by powerful storytelling, heartfelt cheers and an outpouring of pride from family, friends, faculty and staff. With more than 5,700 degrees and certificates awarded, FRCC’s 2025 commencement was a bold and inspiring display of the college’s growing impact across Colorado and beyond.
“We don’t just open doors to opportunity here at FRCC,” said President Colleen Simpson, EdD. “We walk alongside our students as they step through them.”
A Diverse Class, Ready to Lead
This year’s graduates reflect the diversity, strength and resilience of the communities FRCC serves:
- 38% are students of color
- 26% are Pell Grant eligible
- 91 are military veterans
- Students come from 15 countries and 21 U.S. states
- Almost half (48%) are the first in their family to go to college
FRCC’s graduates are leading and uplifting the communities they call home, whether they pursue careers or continue their education at four-year institutions.
“As Colorado’s emerging leaders, teachers, entrepreneurs, nurses, engineers, writers, artists and more, FRCC graduates are prepared to take on the world,” said President Simpson. “Our alumni will help shape and strengthen our communities for generations to come.”
A Celebration of Possibility
This year’s ceremonies featured keynote addresses from Congressman Joe Neguse and Chancellor Joe Garcia of the Colorado Community College System—both reinforcing the message that FRCC students can achieve anything.
Student speaker Chelsea Carroll, a single mother and business owner, inspired the crowd with her story of resilience. Graduating magna cum laude with an associate of science degree, she now plans to pursue a bachelor’s in psychology.
“Behind every diploma is a story of individual determination, supported by a team of family, friends and FRCC employees who contribute to each student’s success,” said Vice President of Enrollment Management & Student Success Dr. Gabriel Castaño.
Stories That Inspire
From mother-daughter graduates Aubree Barlow and Gypsy Bramel, to TRIO student Leah Shipley who is heading to Harvard to perform summer research, the stories of FRCC’s graduates are a powerful reflection of the college’s mission to transform lives and open pathways to opportunity.
These powerful stories remind us why education matters. Each graduate’s journey is a testament to courage, determination and the belief that a brighter future is possible. We share their experiences to inspire others to chase their dreams, overcome obstacles, and see themselves in the successes of the Class of 2025.
Rewatch, Relive, Rejoice
Both ceremonies were livestreamed with real-time Spanish interpretation and included a live social media feed showcasing the celebrations in real time. For those who couldn’t attend, the college invites everyone to relive the moment and continue sharing in the celebration.
Watch the livestream replays here:
Blue Arena Livestream | Denver Coliseum Livestream
To learn more about FRCC’s 2025 Commencement and explore graduate stories, follow us on social media (@FRCCedu on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, and X).
