Nicholas Genzman Never Saw Himself as a Student — Until Owens Made Him an Outstanding Graduate
Nicholas Genzman admitted he has “really never been a school person.” With the help and encouragement he received at Owens Community College, Genzman is about to graduate from college.
Genzman will graduate in May with an Associate of Applied Science in Computer Systems Technologies and Support while also being recognized as the program’s outstanding graduate.
“Owens helped me graduate and be able to perform the best I can,” Genzman said.
Genzman’s path to Owens started while he was a student at Penta Career Center, where he took College Credit Plus classes. The Northwood native completed the CDL Training Program at Owens before enrolling in his computer systems classes.
He admitted being a hybrid student, with remote and in-person classes, sometimes created challenges, but he credited his academic advisor, Brad Meyer, for being reliable and supportive.
“He gave me advice on how to ask questions to teachers, how to sign up for classes, and even when I needed just to vent, he would listen,” Genzman said. “I am not sure I would have been this far without him.”
The School of Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics nomination that accompanied his award captured his journey well: “Nicholas is one of those students that Owens as an institution can be very proud of in that we were able to help him grow in scholarship, life skills and maturity. This recognition will help cement in his mind that hard work and scholarship are rewarded in sometimes unexpected ways.”
Genzman will enter the workforce after graduation, either in truck driving or the computer systems field.
Learn More About the College Credit Plus (CCP) Program
Learn More About Computer Systems Technologies & Support
Published May 2026