COLUMBIA — Columbia State Community College celebrated 162 degree and certificate candidates who crossed the stage during fall commencement ceremonies on December 13 in the Webster Athletic Center, with 478 total students graduating in the Fall 2025 term.
Columbia native Robert Rogers, a Columbia State alumnus who now serves as dealer principal for Parks Motor Sales—continuing the dealership's seven-decade legacy in the community—delivered the commencement address. Rogers, who holds a cum laude bachelor's degree in business administration from Middle Tennessee State University, shared three stories with graduates meant to inspire their next chapter. Drawing on advice from a preacher, he encouraged graduates to "go do a little skylarking," embracing the freedom and possibilities ahead. He also challenged them to consider being "road angels"—like volunteers who support endurance athletes—rather than solely focused on personal achievement and recognition. His final message centered on making the most of limited time, using the metaphor of 100 pennies to represent a lifetime. "You're not promised tomorrow," Rogers said. "Don't waste a minute. Make your pennies count. And even better—make them count in a way that affects the world after you're out of pennies." Rogers currently serves on the Columbia State Foundation Board and is active in the Columbia Kiwanis Club and Boy Scouts of America, where he earned the rank of Eagle Scout.