SANFORD, N.C. - Central Carolina Community College celebrated the achievements of the Class of 2024 as the school observed its 63rd Commencement Exercises on May 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 address: " 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. Our community is proud of CCCC and it is because of how our graduates represent us that we enjoy respect for the college throughout Chatham, Harnett, and Lee Counties, and beyond. I know you will continue that tradition and I want to thank you for how you have represented the Cougar Nation as students and how you will represent us as alumni.

"It's an exciting time to be a part of the college family with all the economic development and career choices in our region. Our college describes itself as a first-class opportunity and a leading workforce partner and we've endeavored to provide you with an exceptional education so you can be a part of these exciting careers right here in our communities," said Dr. Chapman.

"You've worked hard and we look forward to your next successful steps, whatever they may be - I am so proud of you and so honored to serve as your president.," said Dr. Chapman.

The Class of 2024 includes 616 graduates, including fall graduates -who earned 643 credentials (associate degrees, diplomas, and certificates). Three commencement exercises, at 9 a.m., 11 a.m., and 2 p.m., were held to accommodate the number of graduates.

Vicky Wesner, CCCC Faculty Member of the Year, was Chief Marshal and Mace Bearer.

Students presenting Commencement Addresses were: Jacqueline Aguirre Delgado (Associate in Arts) and Krystal Welch (Associate in Applied Science in Dental Hygiene) at the 9 a.m. graduation, Rosalio "Leo" Avalos (Associate in Applied Science in Information Technology) and Estefani Merida Lopez (Associate in Science) at the 11 a.m. graduation, and Kristin Tinnen (Associate in Applied Science in Early Childhood Education Career Track) and Deidrea West (Associate in Applied Science in Bioprocess Manufacturing Technology) at the 2 p.m. graduation.

Here's an excerpt from each address:

Delgado: "To my peers who are graduating today, I would like to give out one piece of advice: never give up, no matter how hard life is treating you or the circumstances you're put in. There's always someone or something out there that is willing to help."

Welch: "Keep believing in yourself and always go for your dreams. You are all here graduating because you didn't give up and you believed, too. Always remember this isn't the end, this is just the beginning of your new chapter. Keep on going and no matter what, never give up on your goals, dreams, and aspirations."

Avalos: "As we go forth into the world, let us strive to make a lasting impression on everyone we encounter. Let us be mindful of the impact we have on others and the legacy we leave behind. And let us never underestimate the power of a positive impression in shaping our future."

Lopez: "It has been an honor and a privilege to stand before you here today. I believe all of you are truly capable of doing whatever you set your minds to. I am proud of everyone here, but above all, you all should be proud of yourselves for putting in the hard work and dedication. The commitment you all have made to your studies and well-being has changed each of you into an accomplished, and empowered, person, so don't be afraid of celebrating it."

Tinnen: "Some of us will go on to further our education, others will jump right into the workforce. Whatever your plans are, accept the challenge with open arms knowing that with hard-work, perseverance, and courage, there is nothing that you cannot achieve."

West: "So, what now as we have achieved this important goal in our lives, what is next? Whatever comes next, one thing should be certain. Never stop learning, and never think that you are at the end of your journey, for this is just another beginning. From now on we will be taking our talents and beliefs with us wherever we go."

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

Conferring of Diplomas was by Julian Philpott, Chair of the CCCC Board of Trustees, at the 9 a.m. and 11 a.m. graduations, and by Dr. Derrick Jordan, Vice Chair of the CCCC Board of Trustees, at the 2 p.m. graduation.

Music was provided by: Violins: Ken Hoyle (Administration); Samantha Lane (Staff); Viola: Karen Huey (Retired music educator); Guitar: David Watson (Faculty); Clarinet: Lauren Winkens (Faculty); Cello: Alyson Cochrane (Faculty); Cello: Elisabeth Crandall; Piper: Peter McArthur; Piano: Carole Troutman.

Providing the invocation during the ceremonies were Pastor Brad Marona of Solid Rock Community Church at the 9 a.m. graduation, Pastor Thomas Johnson of Manna Church, Sanford, at the 11 a.m. graduation, and Pastor Greg Davenport of 1Hope Assembly of God at the 2 p.m. graduation.

Dr. Jon Matthews, CCCC Harnett Provost, presented special awards.

During the graduation exercises, students with highest academic honors were recognized. At 9 a.m., Lucas Beaulieu (Associate in Arts), Luc Horner (Associate in Arts), Ophelia Lassiter (Associate in Arts), Brinkley Lucas (Associate in Arts), Aniya Martin (Associate in Arts), Phoebe McKinney (Associate in Arts), Stephanie Pizarro (Associate in Arts), Jessica Kearney (Medical Sonography), and Sarah Dolley (Veterinary Medical Technology). At 11 a.m., Kimberly Allen (Accounting and Finance), Jill Touchard (Accounting and Finance), Samantha Andrews (Associate in Science), Jedd Barlett (Associate in Science), William Carter (Associate in Science, Associate in Engineering), Ainsley Kimble (Associate in Science), Kate Perez (Associate in Science), Sara Richardson (Associate in Science), Ayden Taylor (Associate in Engineering), Ania Yarish (Business Administration), Chloe Graham (Criminal Justice: Forensic Science), Jennifer Reynolds (Human Services Technology: Addiction and Recovery Services), Janie Wilkes (Human Services Technology: Addiction and Recovery Services), Anna Blackmon (Library and Information Technology), and Julie Morgan (Paralegal Technology). At 2 p.m., Angelina Oliva (Sustainable Agriculture), Goni Ronen (Sustainable Agriculture), and Daniel Le (Welding Technology).

Also recognized during graduation were retiring CCCC faculty members Dr. Carl Bryan and Pam Riddle.

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

Pictures from the commencement exercises can be downloaded online.