SANFORD - Central Carolina Community College celebrated the achievements of the Class of 2022 as the school observed its 60th Commencement Exercises on Aug. 9 at the Dennis A. Wicker Civic & Conference Center in Sanford.

The graduating students entered the main hall to the skirl of a bagpipe, a CCCC tradition.

CCCC President Dr. Lisa M. Chapman said in her summer graduation address: "Graduation represents the culmination of much hard work, persistence and great accomplishments. Graduates, your college family is proud of each and every one of you and we are honored to join you today as we celebrate your achievements to this point and we look forward to seeing all you will do as you continue to represent us as Cougar Nation alumni. I am so proud of you and so honored to serve as your president!"

The Class of 2022 summer graduation ceremonies recognized 221 graduating students.

Dr. Phillip Price, CCCC Executive Vice President / Chief Financial Officer, was Chief Marshal and Mace Bearer.

Students presenting Commencement Addresses were Jordan Glover and Monserrath Montes-Bocanegra.

Glover, an Associate in Arts graduate, has been a student at the Chatham School of Science and Engineering. He plans to pursue a degree in Studio Art at UNC Chapel Hill. "We've made it through some difficult times and are now ready for the next steps that follow," said Glover, sharing with his fellow graduates the following lessons he has learned. "1. Do your best at whatever you're doing. 2. Stay organized. 3. Don't forget to do the things that make you happy."

Montes-Bocanegra, an Associate in Arts graduate, has been a student at Lee Early College. She plans to pursue an Engineering degree at UNC Charlotte. "Just know that because you are wearing a cap and gown today, you should feel proud of yourself for achieving another monumental thing in your life, and knowing that this will not be your last. We are here because we deserve it! We have worked hard, and this is the proof," said Montes-Bocanegra. "Be proud of yourself because every one of you worked hard for this. As cheesy as it may seem, always remember that there is no limit on what you can do with your life."

Presenting the graduates was Dr. Kristi Short, Vice President/Chief Academic Officer.

Conferring of Diplomas was by Dr. Derrick Jordan of the Central Carolina Community College Board of Trustees.

Music was provided by the Ensemble of: Violin - Ken Hoyle (administration); Cello - Karen Huey (retired music educator); Viola -- Emily Troutman (high school teacher); Guitar - David Watson (faculty); Clarinet - Lauren Winkens (faculty); Keyboard - Hunter Hoyle (former student); Piper - Peter McArthur.

Providing the invocation during the graduation was Pastor Robbie Gibson of East Sanford Baptist Church.

Scott Byington, CCCC Associate Vice President, Onboarding and Advising, presented special awards.

During the graduation exercise, academic award winners were recognized - Nathalia Lima Freitas (Associate in Arts), Emily Grace Pierce (Associate in Arts), Graham Brian Stafford (Computer Integrated Machining), and Natalie Docarmo (Medical Assisting).

Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society graduates were also recognized. They were: Shubricca Bell, Anna Crowder, Nuvia Gardado, Tamarr Moore, Camryn Morland, Rubi Reyes Prado, and Yanira Rivera.

Following the commencement exercise, family and friends gathered to take pictures of their graduate's special day.

Pictures from the commencement exercise can be downloaded at www.cccc.edu/slideshows.

For information about Central Carolina Community College and its programs, visit its website, www.cccc.edu.