Lehigh Carbon Community College will hold its 49th annual Commencement at 7 p.m. Wednesday.

In commemoration of the college's 50th anniversary, ceremonies will be held at the PPL Center in downtown Allentown, the city where the college first held classes.Commencement will recognize the more than 800 students who have earned associate degrees or certificates from August 2015, December 2015 and May 2016.LCCC President Dr. Ann D. Bieber will preside over the ceremonies.Chair of the LCCC board of trustees Audrey L. Larvey will offer the welcome.Class of 2016 graduates Carl B. Silverstein of Palmerton, who is receiving his associate of science degree in biology, and Luisa D. Peralta-Martinez of Whitehall, who is receiving her associate of arts degree in criminal justice administration, will be the featured student speakers.A nontraditional student and single father of five, Silverstein has attended classes for six years in pursuit of his degree. His hard work has paid off, and this summer, Silverstein will attend Bucknell University's community college scholars program. He then plans to return to Bucknell in the fall to pursue a double major in biology and philosophy, ultimately to earn his medical degree.Peralta-Martinez moved to the United States from the Dominican Republic just five years ago as a freshman in high school, and was, as she says, "ignorant" of the English language. However, her deep desire to succeed propelled her to become an honors student in high school, and at LCCC to serve in numerous leadership roles. Peralta-Martinez plans to join the Marines after graduation. Her long-term goal is to become an attorney.Dr. John Hefner, associate professor of biotechnology/ chemistry, will serve as grand marshal, assisted by faculty members Richard C. Warner, Monica A. Cottrell, Edward S. Rabinowitz, Douglas W. Rigby, Jodi L. Rowlands and Richard A. Snyder.One of the highlights of the ceremony will be the announcement of the Student of the Year, which will be presented to the outstanding graduate of the year and is selected by the LCCC Faculty Association. In addition, the All-Pennsylvania Academic Team members Trisha Bankowski and Samantha Eden will be recognized.Dr. Thomas W. Meyer, vice president of academic services and student development, will present the candidates for graduation.