Piedmont Technical College Awards 420 Credentials at Spring Graduation Ceremony

Piedmont Technical College (PTC) proudly celebrated the achievements of 420 graduates during its Spring Graduation Ceremony. Students received a diverse array of credentials, ranging from certificates to associate degrees, marking the culmination of their hard work and dedication.

Dr. Hope E. Rivers, President of PTC, delivered a heartfelt address emphasizing the transformative impact of education. “Graduates, today marks a significant milestone in your lives as each of you graduates from Piedmont Technical College. You’ve not only completed your degrees but have also embraced our motto of expecting more—from your education, yourselves, and the opportunities that await you,” Rivers stated.

In her speech, Rivers highlighted the college’s commitment to future investments, including over $100 million in new facilities, such as a state-of-the-art health sciences building and advanced manufacturing centers. Additionally, she mentioned the college’s successful acquisition of over $9 million in grants to launch innovative programs, such as the electric vehicle curriculum and mobile trainers, extending educational reach to rural areas.

The keynote address was delivered by Justin M. Benfield, CEO of Prisma Health Laurens County Hospital and Hillcrest Hospital. Reflecting on his own journey from a technical college graduate to a successful healthcare leader, Benfield inspired graduates to embrace the spirit of innovation and continuous learning. “Your future is not written yet, and you are the author. Be bold, don’t be afraid to challenge the status quo, and push the boundaries of what is possible,” he encouraged.

The ceremony also featured moving speeches from distinguished graduates. Jayce Gonzalez, a graduate of the Radiologic Technology Program, reflected on her personal journey and the support she received. “The amount of support that I have received through my family as well as through Piedmont Technical College has given me the courage to stand here in front of all of you today to deliver my speech and take a moment to reflect on this journey,” Gonzalez shared.

Twanisha Cofield, a graduate of the Human Services program, recounted her personal journey of resilience and determination. After facing numerous personal tragedies and challenges, Cofield found strength in her desire to help others. “Despite what struggles life seemed to have thrown my way, I continued to maintain all A’s the entire time. Here I am standing before you, walking the stage amongst you, ‘Beating the Odds,’” she declared.

As the graduates embark on their next chapter, Rivers reminded them that their relationship with PTC does not end with graduation. She encouraged them to remain connected with the college community and to contribute positively to their own communities. “Embrace this moment and let it be a guiding light as you start the next step in your journey. Congratulations, Class of 2024! We are exceedingly proud of you,” she concluded.

— List of Laurens County Graduates

PLEASE NOTE:  PIEDMONT TECHNICAL COLLEGE’S MAY 2024 GRADUATES AND THEIR AREAS OF STUDY ARE LISTED BELOW.

Piedmont Tech shares in the well-deserved pride our graduates feel in their accomplishments. Due to semester and course delivery changes during the 2024 spring semester, some courses and grades are still being finalized. For that reason, names of students who may not meet graduation requirements may be included. Conversely, names of students who will later meet those requirements after publication may be omitted. We regret any embarrassment or inconvenience these ongoing course completions may cause. An official list of all 2024 spring graduates will be maintained by the Student Records Office once all courses and grading have been completed.

LAURENS COUNTY

CLINTON – Skylar G. Brewer, associate in applied science, major in radiologic technology; Ashley Renee Cohen, associate in applied science, major in criminal justice; **Josiah Davidson, certificate in advanced welding; *Xi Dong, associate in applied science, major in business administration, management concentration; Sarah Greendale, associate in applied science, major in business administration, management concentration; **Alex Carter Laws, associate in applied science, major in building construction technology; Kiersten Leanna Murphy MacDonald, associate in applied science, major in radiologic technology; Heather Michelle Perry, certificate in office technician.

FOUNTAIN INN – **Nagi K. Youssef, associate in applied science, major in business administration, accounting concentration.

GRAY COURT – *Cody James Leopard, certificate in advanced welding.

KINARDS – Reva A. Mccumber, associate in applied science, major in business administration, management concentration.

LAURENS – Emily Marie Barrouk, associate in applied science, major in nursing; ***Twanisha Anshell Cofield, associate in applied science, major in human services; Jacob Dylan Corley, associate in arts; **Ashton N. Curry, associate in applied science, major in business administration, office management concentration; ***Emily Galloway, associate in applied science, major in horticulture technology; Anne Marie Gordon, associate in applied science, major in business administration, accounting concentration; Sloan Drayton Gregory, associate in applied science, major in heating, ventilation and air conditioning technology; Destiny Abbigale Harter, associate in applied science, major in business administration, accounting concentration; Clay D. Hughes, associate in applied science, major in business administration, management concentration; **David Marley, associate in applied science, major in building construction technology; Mary Mccumber, associate in applied science, major in business administration, management concentration; Guretta Mims, associate in applied science, major in administrative office technology, medical concentration; Jack Pahl Rochester Pontoon, associate in applied science, major in mechatronics technology; Robert Allen Putman, associate in applied science, major in heating, ventilation and air conditioning technology; **Hogan Tyler Skipper, associate in applied science, major in mechatronics technology; Bobby Barrett Stewart III, associate in applied science, major in mechatronics technology; Davis Thomas, associate in applied science, major in computer technology, networking concentration; and *Reagan Olivia Williamson, associate in applied science, major in radiologic technology.

WARE SHOALS – John Paul Fallaw, associate in applied science, major in mechatronics technology.

WATERLOO – Connor Piontek Jr., associate in applied science, major in building construction technology.

***Summa Cum Laude-4.0      **Magna Cum Laude-3.75-3.99          *Cum Laude-3.5-3.74