Spring 2025 Commencement: Gabby Fernandez Finds Her Footing at Tri-C

Gabby Fernandez only discovered the importance of nature and the green industry as a young adult.

Having grown up away from open outdoor settings, Fernandez questions why urban spaces and nature are considered mutually exclusive. Using the knowledge and skills she's gained from the Plant Science and Landscape Technology program at Cuyahoga Community College (Tri-C®), she hopes to change that perception through her work.

"At my core, I like to know that I am meaningfully contributing to my community," Fernandez, 26, said. "I want green spaces to become a standard, integral part of our urban infrastructure that everyone has access to."

Her first attempt at higher education was unsuccessful, and she dropped out, taking a toll on her confidence and passion for anything related to academics.

However, the Cleveland Heights resident didn't lose hope and enrolled at Tri-C in 2021.

"My Tri-C experience gave me the opportunity to find my footing again, this time with the proper resources and support," she said.

Fernandez said that one of the most influential moments of her time at Tri-C was at the National Collegiate Landscaping Competition (NCLC) in 2023 and 2024. She placed second overall in the Interior Landscape Design category and fourth in the Computer Aided Landscape Design category in 2024 as Tri-C took second place. In 2023, Fernandez placed fourth in Interior Plant ID, and the College won the NCLC competition.

"I had the opportunity to travel, learn specialized skills, and learn more about an industry that I was very new to at the time," she said. "NCLC gave me a healthy competitive spirit that really solidified my belonging and interest in this program and industry."

Fernandez will graduate with an Associate of Applied Science, a Certificate of Proficiency and a Short-Term Certificate from the School of Liberal Arts and Sciences during Tri-C's Spring Commencement on May 16 at the Wolstein Center. She plans to begin a career in the plant science industry and hopes to earn a four-year degree in the future.

What made you choose Tri-C? When did you first enroll?

I gravitated toward Tri-C because I knew I would have to continue working and managing my life on top of academics. I also knew Tri-C would offer flexibility and financial help to make that possible.

Describe your Tri-C experience. Has a specific person, class or event played a role in your success?

I have made important lifelong friends and gotten more out of the program than I ever expected to. Lori Zatroch, our program director, has been a huge part of my success. She has helped me with things from scholarship applications to accessing important resources.

How has Tri-C changed your life?

Aside from the practical skills I gained in the plant science program, I also have a new community and confidence in my abilities.

Do you have any pearls of wisdom to share with students considering a similar degree or certificate program?

I have gained so much from just opening up more to my classmates and faculty. It makes things much easier to handle and more enjoyable to have people in your corner.

Tri-C will celebrate the academic achievements of its newest graduates during Commencement on May 16 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.

May 08, 2025

By Anthony Moujaes, 216-987-3068 or anthony.moujaes@tri-c.edu