Celebration of Achievement in Greenwood, SC
On a beautiful Thursday morning, the atmosphere at the James Medford Family Event Center in Greenwood was electric. Graduates, family members, and faculty gathered to celebrate an important milestone: the Fall Commencement Ceremony at Piedmont Technical College. With a gentle mix of clouds and sun early in the day, the weather added a cheerful backdrop to the festivities.
The college was thrilled to award a total of 232 credentials, including associate degrees, diplomas, and certificates. This momentous occasion was not only about receiving a degree but also about cherishing the hard work, determination, and support that went into achieving these personal milestones.
Words of Wisdom and Encouragement
As the ceremonies commenced, Hope Rivers, the president of Piedmont Tech, warmly welcomed all attendees and expressed her heartfelt gratitude to the graduates. “Today marks a significant milestone in your lives,” Rivers stated. “You’ve not only completed your degree but have embraced our motto of ‘expecting more’—for your education, for yourselves, and the opportunities that lie ahead.”
The ceremony for the morning was dedicated to graduates from the Associates in Arts and Associates in Science Healthcare programs, while the afternoon session recognized students from diverse fields such as business, information technology, and engineering. The diversity in the programs highlighted the college’s commitment to offering education that aligns with various career paths.
Inspiring Student Stories
The 11 a.m. ceremony featured Heather Strickland, a remarkable 31-year-old mother of three from Clinton, who spoke as the student speaker. Earning her Associates in Applied Science degree in Occupational Therapy Assistant, Strickland captivated the audience with her inspiring journey. Initially not planning to attend college, her life took a turn when her youngest son was diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder in 2021. Feeling compelled to pursue occupational therapy, Strickland embraced her education as not only a personal journey but one that would empower her to help other families facing similar challenges.
“I chose a career in occupational therapy, not only to support my own children, but also to make a difference for other families,” she shared passionately. Strickland’s heartfelt message reflected the powerful impact education can have on individuals and communities alike.
Following in her footsteps, Derrick Goodman, aged 52, took the stage during the 3 p.m. ceremony. He received his associates diploma in Applied Science in Business Administration Management. Goodman shared his own remarkable transformation. He entered the workforce right after high school but felt a spark of inspiration to continue his studies at Piedmont Tech. His next goal? Pursuing a bachelor’s degree at Lander University.
A Commencement to Remember
Both ceremonies featured a motivating address from Nadia Sanders, an alumna who recently completed her bachelor’s degree in political science at the University of South Carolina. Sanders, who was part of the inaugural Middle College class, urged graduates to embrace the uncertainties of life and to dare to take risks.
“Graduation is not the end,” Sanders emphasized. “It’s just the start of everything that lies ahead. So, take a deep breath, celebrate today and when you leave here, remember that the world is your oyster.” Her words resonated with the audience, serving as a perfect reminder of the bright futures that await.
As families gathered to take pictures and capture precious memories after the ceremonies, it was clear that the spirit of achievement and hope was alive and well at Piedmont Technical College. These graduates have stepped into a world full of opportunities, ready to make their mark.
With the inaugural event behind them for another year, the excitement is already building for future graduates. Congratulations to the Class of 2024 from Piedmont Technical College!
