NETC Awards 201 Degrees, Diplomas and Certificates to the Class of 2014

Former Governor Jim Hodges, dared graduates of Northeastern Technical College to "dream big dreams" and not fear improvement and innovation as they received degrees, diplomas and/or certificates that will be their pathway to a future at the college's annual commencement ceremony held May 17.

"Think big and dream big, because too often in life we simply don't dream big enough," he said. "We sometimes live in a world of our own creation, made of low expectations, and fail to achieve our full potential as a people, as a state, and as a nation."

He also asked the graduates to remember Google's motto, which is to have a "healthy disregard for the impossible."

Hodges was the keynote speaker for the college's commencement ceremony held at Cheraw High School where students received recognition for graduating from one of the college's programs by the close of the spring semester 2014.

Hodges, along with faculty, staff and members of NETC's Area Commission, joined graduates and their families in marking this monumental milestone in the lives of so many.

"We're honored that you chose our college as a place in which you would continue your education, and we, along with all those assembled here today, celebrate your accomplishments," Dr. Ron Bartley, college president, said. "I urge you to never forget that learning and the pursuit of truth are valuable and everlasting traits."

Bartley also reminded graduates that their successful completion of a program at NETC makes each one of them an alumnus of the College.

"Don't think of your graduation as leaving us. What you'll actually be doing is taking a part of us with you," he said. "On this day, you're an alumnus of Northeastern Technical College, and I officially designate each of you as a new member of our Alumni Association."

Bartley took a moment during the ceremony to recognize four graduates who made going to college at NETC a "family affair," announcing father and son graduates, Kip and Graham Kiser, as well as mother and son graduates, Sandra and John Locklear to the audience.

"As you go forward in your life beyond NETC, remember all those people who helped you get to where you are today and pass this heritage on to the next generation," Bartley continued.  "They will need you as much as you needed those who helped you get through this."

Area Commission Chairman Herbert Watts introduced former Governor Jim Hodges as the guest speaker, listing his many past accomplishments, including his achievements as governor, during which time, he helped to establish the SC Education Lottery.  Hodges, served as the 114th Governor of South Carolina from 1999 to 2003 and made education a top priority during his term.

Hodges, spoke about his upbringing as the child of textile workers and how valuable education is for those wanting to succeed in today's world.

"Your parents and grandparents will probably tell you that the world ahead is going to be easier for you than it was for them," said Hodges. "Well, let me tell you... They are wrong."

"Even though the world ahead of you may be more exciting or more interesting, the world has changed dramatically, especially when you think about where we are now, compared to where we used to be," he explained. "My great grandfather and grandfather both worked in the textile mills in York County, and they raised families working for one company in one town, but neither of them had college degrees."

He spoke about how the world of our fathers and grandfathers, only exists on television and how small communities throughout the state are now struggling to survive.  He told the graduates that reports show that South Carolina needs more than 110,000 more two-year and four-year degree college graduates to meet the demands of today's workforce.

"The textile industry is gone, and the people without a post-secondary degree won't have the chance to give their families that middle class life that we yearn for," Hodges continued.

He also shared with the audience the story of his mother, who went back to college as a parent and was able to eventually earn her PhD.

"Many of you had families and work to juggle and had to find time to study," he said.  "What is so important about this is the impact it will have on your children."

"The example you set for your children, for your family, and community is one of the value of education.  Your degree is equally important because it sends a message that lives can be dramatically changed through the power of education."

Those daring to be great by pursuing their pathway to a future through education or by upgrading their work skills should take note of the July 30 application deadline for the fall 2014 semester. Applications are available and will be accepted at any of the college campuses in Pageland, Cheraw, Bennettsville or Dillon. For more information, call 1-800-921-7399 and choose option 1 for admissions.

To download an application form, visit the Admission page of the college website at www.netc.edu.

To view photos of NETC's 2014 graduation ceremonies visit the Northeastern Technical College Alumni Association page on www.facebook.com.

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