ASHLAND, Ky. — Despite unseasonably cold temperatures and soft rain, a packed house was on hand Friday night to witness a bit of history at the Paramount Arts Center in Ashland, Ky.

Ashland Community and Technical College set a new record at its commencement ceremony this year by honoring 534 graduates, an all-time high for the college. Of those graduating Friday night, 297 were receiving associate degrees, 131 were receiving diplomas and 759 received certificates.

Among the speakers at the commencement were Rita Rice Morris, president of Shawnee State University in Portsmouth, and Hitomi Sturgill, a native of Japan and a 2006 graduate who earned an associate’s degree with high honors from ACTC.

Sturgill, who plans to transfer to the University of Kentucky to major in chemical engineering this fall, spoke highly of her experience at the college.

“I will always remember my time here at ACTC and will always be grateful for the encouragement and friendship that has been offered here,” Sturgill said.

Although some students now plan to continue their education at other universities, some are ready to jump right in and get to work. Flatwoods native John Bailey, who was graduating with an associate’s degree in science, is ready to start earning.

“I’ve already got a job lined up in radiology,” the 21-year-old graduate said.

“I’m going to start working at King’s Daughters (Medical Center) this fall,” Bailey said.

Ironton native and Rock Hill High School graduate Arthur Blair says he’s ready to take his air conditioning technology certificate and apply it to something in the heating and air conditioning field.

“Yeah, I’ve got a couple of places I’m looking at right now,” Blair said about his job hunt.

Like Sturgill, Blair also has fond memories of his time spent at ACTC.

“My experience here has been great. The school’s awesome,” Blair said. “I’ve met a lot of people here who will become lifelong friends,” the 20-year-old Blair added.

In addition to the diplomas handed out, the college also awarded several honors.

Among those receiving honors were: Billy Lauhon, an Ashland resident and employee of AK Steel for 33 years, the Distinguished Alumnus award; Larry Prichard, retiring superintendent of the Carter County School System, the Special Recognition award; and Pam Potter, an attorney from Ashland, the Distinguished Service award.