Karson Mock was one of three star student speakers featured in the 2025 spring Commencement, delivering a powerful message about freedom and the desire to never stop learning.
Mock graduated from CGCC in 2025 with an Associates in Arts in philosophy. During his time at CGCC, he served as president of the Literature Club, was awarded the Gilman Scholarship and studied abroad in France. Mock is a dedicated writer and thinker, with a deep interest in cultures, languages and the human experience.
“I’d like to thank all the professors who’ve made this journey meaningful: philosophy professors Mowad and Oswitch, sociology professor Sieger and public speaking professor Bryant,” said Mock. “I would also like to thank the countless staff who keep this school running. You have challenged us, inspired us and shaped the way we think. Your impacts will stay with us far beyond the walls of this school.”
“I used to see graduation as a finish line,” said Mock. “A moment where, after many years of effort, you eventually break through that ribbon, take your medal and move on, that’s the end of it. However, standing here today, I realize it’s something else entirely. Graduation isn’t a finish line at all; it’s a door. With each new graduation, from diploma to degree, from certificate to license, learning and opportunity never stop. We’re not done just because we walk across some stage. As we step through this door, we’re not met with certainty, but with possibility.”
Mock plans to transfer to Arizona State University to pursue graduate studies with the goal of teaching and writing.