Fall 2025 Commencement: Farah Hafez Is Reignited at Tri-C
Born and raised in Syria's capital city, Damascus, Farah Hafez endured the country's long revolutionary war, a time that "took away the privilege of dreaming about the future."
Her journey into the health care field reflects her resilience. She originally studied business administration, but her passion is advancing health care. Hafez relocated to the U.S. and restarted her education at Cuyahoga Community College (Tri-C®) in the Radiography program.
"The program has been the perfect starting point for that journey," Hafez said. "I sought to reignite a dream that had once seemed lost in the ashes of adversity. Medical imaging was the ideal fusion of my passion for technology and my commitment to improving patient care."
Hafez was a student intern in the Provost's Office, where she helped gather student feedback and contributed to improving the student experience.
Hafez will earn an Associate of Applied Science in Radiography. She will graduate Summa Cum Laude from the School of Nursing and Health Professions when the College celebrates Fall Commencement on Dec. 11 at the Wolstein Center.
She plans to begin cross-training in MRI or IR and will transfer to Case Western Reserve University to move closer to the future she envisions for herself.
What made you choose Tri-C?
I chose Tri-C because it's known for its strong educational environment, supportive resources for international students and its growing health professions programs. I enrolled when I began pursuing my education in the U.S., and it immediately felt like the right fit for me.
Describe your Tri-C experience. Has a specific person, class or event played a role in your success?
My Tri-C experience genuinely felt like finding a second family. My English 101 professor, Rachel Kazmier, reignited a part of me I thought I had lost when she encouraged me to enter the Reimagining event, where I won a prize.
That moment lit a spark that led me to compete in the Cleveland Metamorphosis event two years later — and I won again — reminding me of my creativity, purpose and the community that believed in me.
How has Tri-C changed your life?
Tri-C helped me rediscover my confidence and opened meaningful opportunities that shaped my journey. It surrounded me with support, rekindled my creativity, and guided me toward a future in which I can finally see myself thriving.
Do you have any pearls of wisdom to share with students considering a similar degree or certificate program?
Never let the board of life dictate your place. Like a pawn pursuing transformation, move valiantly into the future awaiting you.
Tri-C will celebrate the academic achievements of its newest graduates during Commencement on Dec. 11 at the Wolstein Center in Cleveland. Check our News and Events page leading up to the event for more highlights from the Class of 2025.
December 10, 2025
By Anthony Moujaes, 216-987-3068 or anthony.moujaes@tri-c.edu