Thomas College graduate Shelby Watson speaks to graduates during commencement ceremonies in Waterville on Saturday.

Dick Whitmore delivers the Commencement address to the Class of 2017 at Thomas College in Waterville on Saturday.

Family tries to get the attention of their graduate as commencement ceremonies begin at Thomas College in Waterville on Saturday.

Family tries to get the attention of their graduate as commencement ceremonies begin at Thomas College in Waterville on Saturday.

Thomas College graduates take their seats during commencement ceremonies in Waterville on Saturday.

A Thomas College graduate wipes tears from her check after an emotional speech by graduate speaker Tanya Naborowsky during commencement ceremonies in Waterville on Saturday.

Thomas College graduate Tanya Naborowsky wipes tears from her check after delivering an emotional speech to other graduates during commencement ceremonies in Waterville on Saturday.

Thomas College graduate Abdifatah Ali, yells to family as he crosses the stage to receive his diploma during commencement ceremonies at Thomas College in Waterville on Saturday.

The 123rd Commencement class was the biggest in history for Thomas College with 225 graduates on Saturday.

Laurie Lachance, president of Thomas College, address graduates during commencement ceremonies at Thomas College in Waterville on Saturday.

Thomas College graduates listen as Commencement speaker Dick Whitmore delivers his address at Thomas College in Waterville on Saturday.

Thomas College graduate Abdifatah Ali, celebrates as he crosses the stage to receive his diploma during commencement ceremonies at Thomas College in Waterville on Saturday.