Graduation Sets New Records
N.C. Representative Shelly Willingham delivered the Commencement address on May 7.
Edgecombe Community College set two graduation records on Saturday by awarding the largest number of credentials to the largest number of graduates in college history.
During the morning event on May 7, the college awarded 630 associate degrees, diplomas, and certificates to a total of 508 students. In addition, 49 individuals received Adult High School Equivalency and Adult High School diplomas.
“The Class of 2016 overcame tremendous obstacles to complete their programs,” said Michael Jordan, vice president of student services at ECC. “One young man who came to us homeless graduated with his degree.
“Another graduate was hospitalized the week before graduation. So many talented individuals pressed on until they finished, regardless of what they were up against. Many members of this class carried heavy loads each day to achieve their dreams.”
N.C. Representative Shelly Willingham, who represents Edgecombe and Martin counties in District 23, delivered the Commencement address and encouraged graduates to make the right personal choices throughout their lives.
“Education without character is a very dangerous combination,” he said. “Be reliable, have integrity, and be trustworthy. Treat everyone with respect, and be accountable for who you are.”
“Life is not a race but a journey. Savor each step of the way. You’ve earned something special, and I congratulate and salute you.”
Maria Mosso, a senior at both ECC and the Edgecombe Early College High School, was honored as the 2016 Dallas Herring Achievement Award nominee. At ECC, she is a member of the Phi Theta Kappa honor society, Student Government Association, and Who’s Who Among Students in American Universities and Colleges.
Mosso graduated with two degrees: an associate in arts and an associate in science. She will receive her high school diploma on May 26. Mosso is the Edgecombe Early College’s first North Carolina Academic Scholar.
Medical assisting student Kathryn Carpenter Hale was recognized as the 2016 North Carolina Community College Academic Excellence Award recipient from ECC. She has consistently been named to the President’s List, is a member of the Phi Theta Kappa honor society, and served as president of the Student Association of Medical Assisting.
Juan Antonio “T.J.” Johnson Jr. was honored as the Governor Robert W. Scott Student Leadership Award nominee. At ECC, Johnson is vice president and past parliamentarian of SGA; a Student Ambassador; and a member of Phi Theta Kappa, the Criminal Justice and SkillsECC clubs, and EMPAC. He also is a graduate of the N.C. Community College System Student Leadership Development Program and was named to Who’s Who Among Students in American Universities and Colleges.
Graduate Juan Antonio “T.J.” Johnson Jr. was honored during Commencement as the Governor Robert W. Scott Student Leadership Award nominee. Congratulating him is ECC President Dr. Deborah Lamm, and standing back is Michael Jordan, vice president of student services.
Special presentations were made by the Edgecombe Community College Foundation to an instructor and a staff member. Dr. Johnica Ellis-Kiser, chair of business administration, received the 2016 Excellence in Teaching Award. Debra Glover, administrative assistant for instructional services, received the 2016 Staff Award.
Saturday’s Commencement marked the 48th graduation ceremony at the college.