Photo provided to the Times Observer Director of Applied Studies and Instructor of Early Childhood Education, Leigh Anne Kraemer-Naser, poses for a selfie with several of her students during commencement held on Saturday in Kersey, Pa.

The Northern Pennsylvania Regional College celebrated commencement on Saturday.

A total of 20 students were recognized for completing their certificate or degree programs. The event was held at The Red Fern in Kersey, Pa.

“You all have worked hard to achieve your success. This is your moment,” President Susan Snelick told the graduates. “The investment you have made in yourself will not only positively affect your future but will impact the future of generations to come. Each and every one of you now has the power to write your next chapter.

“Even as you move on, you remain a cherished part of our college family. Please know, the college will remain here for you. Whether it is helping you along your career path, additional education opportunities, or as alumni relations, NPRC remains steadfast in assisting you in your journey. No matter where your journey takes you, I know you will make a difference.”

This year’s student commencement speaker was Warren-native Savannah Nichols.

“If there is one thing from my speech that I want you to remember, this is it. It is okay not to be okay, to not understand, to not be perfect, to have no idea what you are doing,” Nichols said. “I do not think that we know exactly what we are supposed to be doing.

“What I do know, if you wake up every day trying to grow and be a better person, we will be okay. Embrace the challenges that lie ahead, pursue your passions with courage, and never forget the lessons you have learned and the friendships you have forged during your time here.”

The commencement speaker was Beth Pellegrino, partner and senior consultant at J.L. Nick & Associates.

“Express gratitude to those who’ve been part of your journey. Because, trust me, everyone needs their people, and often, true support pops up from the most unexpected corners,” Pellegrino said.

“Know your people, love your people and cherish your people. We need our people to be present with us, listen without judgment and keep us going.

“We are tough; us optimists, and we just need someone to see us rather than fix all our problems. And when they need us, we’re the first ones to come running.

“And never let anyone call you lucky. See people like us, that are out there every day working for our next “I made it.” moment – We aren’t lucky people. We work for what we have, we think strategically, we act intentionally. So, the next time you are out killing it, and someone says ‘Oh, you are so lucky!’ say ‘I’m very grateful for opportunities that I’ve taken advantage of and worked hard enough to get here.’ Because your accomplishments are yours, they aren’t luck.”

Here’s who graduated on Saturday:

Associate of Science and Certificate in General Studies: Mitchell Baldwin, Brandi Cornell, Olivia Gloss, Victoria Lane-Michaud, Taylor Mineweaser, Emily Ponce and Aarin Weinkauf.

Associate of Applied Science and Certificate in General Studies: Brittany Grajek, Savannah Nichols, Elizabeth Severance, Kendra Valenti, Janessa Wagner.

Associate of Arts and Associate of Science: Corrine Heeter.

Associate of Applied Science: Valerie Burgett.

Certificate: Nicole McCann, Bryan Meade and Mary Beth Spoon.

“You are proof that we are meeting our goal of providing quality post-secondary education and workforce development that prepares our students for jobs within our service area,” Duane Vicini, chair of the NPRC board said. “Be a proud alumnus. Be confident. Spread the word about your education experience at NPRC with everyone you meet. There is no stronger endorsement for NPRC than your personal testimonial.

Saturday marked the NPRC’s fourth commencement ceremony.