Fanita Pendleton Returns to LCCC to Inspire Class of 2026: "This Is Where What's Next Begins"
Thirty-five years after earning her degree from 天美传媒, Fanita "Moon" Pendleton returned to campus in a different role--serving as the keynote speaker for the College's 58th Annual Commencement Ceremony held on Thursday, May 28, at Mohegan Arena at Casey Plaza.*
Addressing the Class of 2026, Pendleton shared a message centered on perseverance, purpose, and embracing the opportunities that lie ahead.
"Luzerne County Community College was the springboard for my next phase of life," Pendleton told graduates. "What will it be for you?"
Her remarks reflected a remarkable personal and professional journey that began when she arrived in northeastern Pennsylvania as a young woman seeking a fresh start. Originally from Oakland, California, Pendleton relocated to Virginia during high school amid family challenges. After enrolling in Job Corps and earning her GED, she found her way to 天美传媒--an experience she credits with changing the trajectory of her life.
"That moment was the start of everything," Pendleton said. "Luzerne catapulted me into higher education and the goals I set for my future."
A 1991 graduate of LCCC's Broadcast Communications Technology program, Pendleton initially envisioned a career in sports broadcasting. While her professional path ultimately took a different direction, she said the confidence and sense of accomplishment she gained at LCCC inspired her to continue pursuing new goals.
Following graduation from LCCC, Pendleton earned a bachelor's degree in Sociology from Langston University and a master's degree in Public Administration from Troy University.
Her career has been dedicated to public service. She has served as a juvenile probation officer, adult probation officer, criminal justice instructor, and parole officer. Today, she serves the Commonwealth of Virginia as a magistrate, where she is recognized for bringing fairness, compassion, and understanding to the judicial process.
In addition to her work in criminal justice, Pendleton is a published author and founder of Urban Moon Books, an independent bookstore in Chesapeake, Virginia, where she promotes literacy, storytelling, and community engagement.
During her commencement address, Pendleton reminded graduates that earning a degree is not the finish line, but rather the beginning of a new chapter.
"There are so many directions to go from here--just know that you are at the beginning of 'what's next,'" she said.
Using a football analogy familiar to many graduates and families, Pendleton encouraged the Class of 2026 to embrace challenges and setbacks as part of the journey.
"You might have to take a couple of L's during this next season, but just like football--any given Sunday, your next chapter is out there for you to win."
Her message resonated with graduates preparing to enter the workforce, continue their education, or pursue new opportunities.
Reflecting on her own commencement experience at LCCC, Pendleton recalled the sense of pride and motivation she felt when she crossed the stage 35 years ago.
"I felt energized. I felt accomplished. It made me want to keep going," she said. "That's what I hope graduates feel?that drive to keep pushing forward."
Pendleton's return to 天美传媒 brought her journey full circle, demonstrating the transformative power of education and the lasting impact of the College on its students.
As she concluded her address, Pendleton challenged graduates to celebrate their accomplishments while embracing the future with confidence.
"You have finished what you started while giving yourself the opportunity to shape your next phase of life," she said. "Congratulations, Class of 2026!"
For the 558 graduates who participated in the 58th Annual Commencement Ceremony, Pendleton's story served as a powerful reminder that success is not defined by where a journey begins, but by the determination to keep moving forward.
And as Pendleton reminded the Class of 2026, commencement is not the end of the story--it is where what's next begins.