2012 Graduation Highlighted by Impassioned Address to New Graduates

May 14, 2012

“I pushed myself many times because I knew I only had one trip down this road. I went to school here but I often wondered if I had finished here, would things have been easier, the road less bumpy. I didn’t sit where you are sitting tonight and it makes me wonder what I would be feeling if I were you…

“It takes serious motivation and hunger in order to meet your goals successfully. It’s a process. Sometimes things go your way and sometimes they do not, but keep fighting to fulfill your dreams with honesty, good character, and compassion…

“Today is a day of reflection. Some of you came from families where education was expected of you. Some had to overcome far more obstacles to get here and tonight you may be the very first member of your family to graduate from college. What an amazing accomplishment!!!

“But no matter where you started, you all have boundless opportunities. You are starting your journey a step ahead. Your gas tank is now half full – what are you going to do with it?”

Renee Smith, manager of Town ‘n County Supermarket in Oriental, passionately urged graduates of Pamlico Community College to add values of integrity and compassion to the knowledge and skills acquired in the classrooms as they entered a new phase of their lives. More than 150 degrees, diplomas, and certificates were awarded to 95 persons completing various levels of educational accomplishment Friday, May 11, at commencement in the Ned Everett Delamar Center.

In addition to the degrees, diplomas, and certificates awarded, several other honors were bestowed upon members of the PCC family. Beverly Fruhling, president of the Pamlico Community College Foundation presented Delores Townsend with the 2012 Distinguished Alumni Award.

Townsend, known to be a tireless worker, is an associate agent and office manager for the Tommy Boyd/Nationwide Insurance office in Bayboro. When she was a student at PCC, she was a member of Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society, received the Academic Excellence Award, and accomplished these feats as a mother with two children.

Jim Curry, PCC vice-president for administration, presented the 2012 Outstanding Staff Award to Herman Turnage of the Maintenance Department. Curry noted that Turnage was the kind of man who woke up every morning with a smile on his face.

Jamie Gibbs, vice-president of Student Services, presented the 2012 Outstanding Student award to Reed Sparks who graduated with a degree in Electroneurodiagnostic Technology.

Sparks, from eastern Carteret County, drove over one hour one way to classes at PCC and overcame a serious debilitating injury and significant pain to attend classes.

Dr. Cleve H. Cox, president, recognized Teresa McGowan for having received the 2012 Academic Excellence Award. She received the Oriental Rotary Scholarship for graduates furthering their education. She will attend East Carolina University. He also cited Cougar Caroon for an academic achievement award from Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society.

Macy Holadia and Shelby Faist were two high school seniors who earned degrees by combining college studies with their high school programs. Consequently, they will graduate from high school with the first two years of college behind them saving time and much money as they pursue further educational goals.

Zachary James was recognized by Erlinda Leggett, the college’s GED examiner, for having the highest score on the GED high school equivalency test during the past academic year.

Joining Cox in presenting the degrees, diplomas and certificates to the graduates were Dr. Larry Gracie, vice president for Instructional Services, and Greg Piner, a college trustee. The graduates and their families were honored at a reception in The Mall of the Johnson Building following the Commencement.

Cox observed, “Graduation is the culmination of so much work by so many people. It goes without saying that we are proud to be a part of the process where people in Pamlico County and beyond can use opportunities at this college to make life better for themselves and their families.”

Teamwork in the classroom during learning experiences translated into teamwork preparing for the processional.

Medical Assisting graduates posed for a very formal photo before the march.

Joy was very apparent on the faces of these cosmetology graduates.

As graduates prepared for the ceremony, dignitaries exchanged notes.

Mack Avery spent much of his college career in a wheel chair due to a bad fall from the roof of his house. But for graduation,he made it across the stage using crutches.

The president applauded the years of hard work by the graduates.

Pride in such a great accomplishment becomes a family affair, especially when family members from out-of-state arrive un-expectantly to help celebrate achievement.

Cool and the Gang are prepared for the bright lights of the big city as they pose after graduation.