Northeastern Technical College Students Shine at Fall 2025 Commencement

The Berea Convention Center was filled with excitement and pride as Northeastern Technical College celebrated its Fall 2025 graduates on Thursday, December 11. The 6 p.m. ceremony brought together families, friends, and supporters to honor students who completed programs across a wide range of academic and technical fields.

Interim President Mrs. Erin Fann welcomed the audience with warm remarks, followed by an invocation from Moderator Doris B. Smith of the Berea Missionary Baptist Association. The heart of the evening focused on student achievement and the inspiring words delivered during the commencement address.

A Message of Resilience and Purpose                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                 

In an uplifting keynote speech delivered by NETC Foundation Chair Mrs. Elisabeth McNeil, graduates were reminded of the strength and perseverance that led them to this milestone. "Each of you tells a story of resilience," the speaker said. "Today, all of those stories converge into a moment of triumph. You earned this."

The address celebrated the diverse paths students traveled. Some arrived straight from high school. Others returned to the classroom after years in the workforce. Many balanced jobs, families, late night study sessions, and personal challenges. "You chose not to give up, no matter how challenging the journey became," the speaker emphasized.

Technical program graduates were recognized for mastering skills that keep local communities strong. The speaker highlighted how these students will support vital fields such as healthcare, manufacturing, information technology, and the skilled trades. "You are the problem solvers, the makers, the technicians, and the builders who keep the world moving."

Graduates of academic and university transfer programs were honored for their dedication to inquiry, communication, and lifelong learning. Whether entering the workforce or continuing their education, these students were encouraged to walk confidently into their next chapter with the strong foundation they built at NETC.

"Carry with you self satisfaction, confidence, and gratitude," the speaker said. "You are stepping into a world that needs your talents."

The address also connected this year's graduates to NETC's long history of serving students in Chesterfield, Dillon, and Marlboro counties. "You are a part of our story. Tonight, we honor your past. Tomorrow, you will shape our future," the speaker told the Class of 2025.

Celebrating Student Achievement Across All Programs

Students from every NETC division were recognized for completing degrees, diplomas, and certificates in programs that support some of the region's most important industries. Programs represented at the ceremony included:

• Arts and Sciences Degrees
• University Transfer Certificates
• Business Degrees and Business Certificates
• Early Childhood Certificates
• Applied Health Diplomas
• Allied Health Certificates
• Computer Technology Degrees
• Criminal Justice Degrees and Certificates
• Industrial Technology Degrees and Certificates
• Dual Enrollment Programs for High School Students

Honor Graduates and Phi Theta Kappa members were recognized during the ceremony for outstanding academic achievement.

Recognizing Early Achievers

The ceremony included a special acknowledgment for students in the Dual Enrollment program who completed college level coursework while still in high school. Their accomplishments earned enthusiastic applause from the audience.

A New Chapter Begins

Before the ceremony concluded, graduates were invited to join the NETC Alumni Association by scanning the QR code provided in the program. The evening ended with a reflective benediction and a joyful recessional as the newest NETC alumni exited the auditorium filled with excitement about the future.

The Fall 2025 Commencement honored not only academic accomplishments but also the determination and character that define NETC students. As the keynote speaker told them, "Go forward with purpose and build a life and a world you are proud of."

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