ECC Graduates Class of 2017

“I encourage you to build on what you’ve learned here,” advised Scott Shook, who delivered the Commencement address.

A capacity crowd filled Keihin Auditorium on Saturday, May 6, as family members and friends, and college faculty and staff watched the Class of 2017 receive their diplomas during Commencement exercises.

The college awarded 570 associate degrees, diplomas, and certificates to a total of 460 graduates. In addition, 42 individuals received Adult High School Equivalency and Adult High School diplomas.

Scott Shook, chairman of the NC State Board of Community Colleges, delivered the Commencement address and commended the graduates for their hard work. “I love our students, their spirit and their drive,” he said. “You have bettered yourself through higher education, and today we salute you. You took on the challenge of advancing yourselves.”

He offered a few simple tips on being successful in the workplace. “First, show up and look the part. Second, show up on time. And third, show up with a smile on your face.”

He also recommended that graduates give back to their communities. “Find something you are passionate about and give back,” he said. “America needs your fresh perspective on tough problems. America needs you.”

Kadija Dickens, who received an Associate in Arts degree, is congratulated by ECC President Dr. Deborah Lamm.

ECC student Johnnie Gadson was honored as the 2017 Dallas Herring Achievement Award nominee. In 1993, she earned an associate degree in Business Administration at the college. Several years ago she returned to ECC and is now a College Transfer student with plans to transfer to East Carolina University to complete a degree in early childhood education.

Nassar Hill, a super senior at the Edgecombe Early College High School, was recognized as the 2017 North Carolina Community College Academic Excellence Award recipient from ECC. He received a certificate in Business Leadership, which is a curriculum within the college’s Business Administration program.

Since he was a freshman at the Early College, Hill has been a member of the Middle College National Consortium and has participated in numerous leadership competitions and service learning projects.

Margaret Nash was honored as the Governor Robert W. Scott Student Leadership Award nominee. At ECC, Nash was a Student Ambassador for two years and a member of Phi Theta Kappa. She served as vice president of leadership for this group.

Nash received a Hunting and Shooting Sports Management degree, a Global Logistics certificate, and a Marketing certificate, all of which are part of the Business Administration curriculum.

Special presentations were made by the Edgecombe Community College Foundation to an instructor and a staff member. Renee Pearson, chair of Human Services Technology, received the 2017 Excellence in Teaching Award. Billy Arp, director of evening programs on the Rocky Mount campus, received the 2017 Staff Award.

Saturday’s Commencement marked the 49th graduation ceremony at the college.