Graduates turn tassels at Sandhills

Achievements of the Sandhills Community College class of 2023 were celebrated by family, friends, and SCC faculty and staff on Saturday, May 13, on the McNeill-Woodward Green.

The college held two ceremonies. At 8:30 am, those receiving Associate in Arts or Science, Associate in Arts or Science in Teacher Preparation, Associate in Engineering, Associate in Fine Arts in Music or Visual Arts, Associate in General Education, and Associate in General Education in Nursing were honored. Graduates receiving an Associate in Applied Science, diploma, or certificate were recognized at 11:30 am.

Pomp and Circumstance began the ceremony, and Interim President, Brenda Jackson welcomed those gathered during the first ceremony and Vice President of Institutional Advancement Germaine Elkins during the second. Chief Information Officer Roderick Brower performed the Star-Spangled Banner.

Student Government Association President Michelle Marshall welcomed those gathered and gave words of encouragement to the graduates. Chairman of the Board of Trustees George W. Little welcomed the crowd on behalf of the board. 

DJ Farmer introduced the 2023 SCC Distinguished Alumnus, Isabel Cain. Cain spoke of her struggles in life and victories, including earning a degree from SCC and subsequent degrees after Sandhills. She now serves as the Coordinator for English Language Acquisition and College and Career Readiness at the College.

Hannah Peterkin received The Mary Luman Meyer Award – given to the student who contributed most to the life of the college during their two years at Sandhills. Peterkin earned an Associate in Science.

The Sue Williamson Faculty Award for Transfer was presented to Michelle Marshall, who earned an Associate in Arts. Parker Nelson earned the Faculty Award for Applied Science. The faculty of the college chose the recipients of these awards. While at SCC, each demonstrated outstanding character and academic achievement.

Luke Shelton was presented with The President’s Award. Shelton had the highest academic average with the most credit hours earned. As such, he was the Valedictorian of the Class of 2023. Shelton earned an Associate in Fine Arts in Music.

Following student recognitions, the presentation of candidates for graduation was carried out. For the academic year 2022-23, Sandhills awarded 605 degrees, 18 diplomas, and 20 certificates. 

Courtesy photo/Contributed.