Due to having the largest graduating class in the college’s history, McDowell Technical Community College will hold two graduation ceremonies this year, with students divided between the ceremonies by program area. The keynote speaker and musicians will be the same for both ceremonies. Combined, approximately 430 graduates will receive degrees, diplomas or certificates during the day. Almost 325 of those students will receive curriculum degrees, with another 54 receiving continuing education certificates and 53 receiving an adult high school or high school equivalency credential.
“We took these steps to make sure that we would have adequate seating for all of the family and friends coming to celebrate with our graduates,” said Garrison. “By dividing students into two ceremonies, we shouldn’t have to worry about people having to stand during the ceremony, and things should move a little more quickly.”
Both ceremonies will be held at Nebo Crossing Church on Barnes Road in Marion on Friday, May 10th, with one ceremony at 3 pm and the other at 7 pm. Students in College Transfer and Business Technology program areas will attend the 3 pm ceremony, while Career and Technical Education students, including Health Sciences, Workforce and Continuing Education, Adult High School, and High School Equivalency, will attend the 7 pm ceremony. This is the first year that longer term workforce and continuing education students have participated in the college’s official graduation ceremonies. Communications have gone out to students in all areas to notify them of which ceremony they should attend.
Kim Effler, Director of McDowell Chamber of Commerce, will by keynote speaker for this year’s ceremonies. Local vocalist Greg Conley, who has sung at McDowell Tech graduations for at least a couple of decades, will once again regale students with powerful vocals. Adding to the excitement, Max Dasher, a 2024 American Idol Contestant, will also sing for the graduates. Dasher is a recent McDowell Tech student.
Due to increasing security concerns across the nation, McDowell Tech is joining most other colleges and major event venues in establishing a “clear bag” policy for event safety and security this year. Students and guests must use clear plastic or vinyl bags or small clutch bags instead of regular purses, backpacks, camera bags, crossbody bags and so forth. Medical bags will be allowed with proper inspection at the entrance, as will diaper bags for those with infants and toddlers, although these will also be inspected prior to entry. Marion Police Department and other law enforcement staff will support college staff before, during and after the event to make sure that students and their families can enjoy a safe and smooth event.
“It is exciting to see so many students take advantage of the many higher education opportunities that we offer,” said Ryan Garrison, MTCC Interim President. “As we produce more and more quality graduates, we reinforce our role as a key player in workforce development throughout the state and region, and our students and their families improve their socioeconomic status. Higher education is a win-win for everyone. Congratulations to the Class of 2024!”
