Hard work and perseverance paid off for hundreds at Nicolet College recently as they went from being students to graduates at commencement ceremonies at the college.

In all, Nicolet expects to award over 550 college credentials to more than 450 individuals during the 2014-15 academic year. Many graduates earned multiple college credentials, which include associate degrees, diplomas and certificates.

“It’s a milestone in life for each and every one of these individuals,” said Nicolet Dean of Students Kate Ferrel. “The skills these graduates possess are exactly what they will need to enter the workforce or to continue their education at four-year colleges and universities.”