by Wendy Harrison

FRANKLIN
Paul D. Camp Community College conducted its 47th Annual Commencement ceremony on FRIDAY at the Regional Workforce Development Center in Franklin. Nearly 250 students received degrees and certificates.

Student Felicea R. Dawson served as speaker, and received a standing ovation after the delivery of her message.

“Today, I would like to say to all the graduates that through it all, we made it,” said Dawson. “Whether your next stop is another degree or entering the workforce, remember to tell fear that failure is not fatal, so turn your dreams into reality and know that every end starts a new beginning — today is ours.”

Dawson earned a GED in 2007 and placed as valedictorian of the class. She owns her own cleaning business. She graduated with honors Friday evening with an associate degree in General Studies and plans to pursue a bachelor’s degree with a concentration in business from Norfolk State University.

In addition to the conferring of degrees and certificates, the following recognition occurred:

• 2017-18 PDCCC Award for Excellence in Education was presented to Dr. Tara Atkins-Brady, vice president of academic and student development. Dr. Atkins-Brady was selected by her peers for this honor. This is an annual recognition at the College awarded to one who has made significant contributions and has shown commitment to the College and its community.

• The 2018 Professor Emeritus recognition was bestowed upon Ann Pinner, who retired from the Nursing Department in 2017. This designation is awarded to retired faculty members or administrators who have made significant and long-term contributions to the college and community. Pinner began in the beginning of the program in 2005, assisting with curriculum development. She taught Fundamentals, Maternity and Pediatrics. She worked with about 560 associate degree nursing students and 23 practical nursing students during her tenure.

• Omega Zeta Chapter of the Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society President Cynthia Gurst Seigler recognized outstanding graduates, which included those earning cum laude, magna cum laude and summa cum laude, as well as members of PTK. Veterans and active duty members of the armed forces were asked to stand for recognition by PDCCC President Dr. Dan Lufkin. 

• Dual enrollment students, as well as Environment Sustainability Scholar Tammy Fox were recognized by Dr. Tara Atkins-Brady. The sustainability program’s focus is on teaching outstanding resource stewardship and raising awareness of how green practices can be incorporated into all aspects of life. Students in this program are required to complete 15 credits of related coursework.

The Franklin High School JROTC conducted the Color Guard presentation and led the Pledge of Allegiance. Brittnee Ricks Randolph, 2010 alumna, sang the National Anthem.

WENDY HARRISON is the public relations specialist for PDCCC. Contact her at wharrison@pdc.edu.