Dr. Valerie Ramsey, an alumna of the South Carolina Technical College System who went on to become the first black female executive officer at Clemson University, told Northeastern Technical College’s 2007 graduating class to share their own stories of success because others will be inspired.

In her keynote address to more than 500 people assembled for Northeastern Technical College’s 2007 commencement exercises, Ramsey touted the inspirational power that personal stories have over others. 

“Many of you have overcome great odds to be here today,” she said.  “And when people see that in spite of all you had working against you, knowing where you came from and all the drama you had to deal with, you will inspire others to pursue their education.”

Dr. Ramsey told the audience about an incident that took place just after she graduated  from high school,while she was struggling to make it as a single parent with no career skills, or point of reference on how to find a better life.  One day, a neighbor with a similar background and situation told her how a local technical college was helping her to obtain the education she needed to create a better life. 

“Stories have power, and it was the power of someone else’s story that awakened my destiny,’ she said. 

Inspired by her neighbor’s stories, Ramsey enrolled in her local technical college and began her pathway to education and a new career.  As part of her coursework, she participated in an on-the-job training program and was eventually offered a full-time job.  From there she found the support and resources that enabled her to earn her associate degree, a bachelor’s degree from South Wesleyan University, and master’s and doctoral degrees from Clemson University.

“But my story pales in comparison to some of your stories about what you have overcome to get here today,” she said.  “Don’t keep it to yourself!”

After the ceremony, the graduates, their families, friends and faculty and staff at Northeastern Technical College gathered in the center courtyard to celebrate.  Stories of individual tribulations and triumphs filled the air. 

For Jonathan Rivers, of Ruby, graduating from Northeastern Technical College marks a point in his life that looked nearly impossible just a few short years ago.  During high school he sustained life threatening injuries in a four wheeler accident that left him in a coma for nine months.  But despite the challenges he faced during his rehabilitation, he persevered and graduated from high school, on time, and has now graduated from NETC with two associate degrees and academic honors.

Tammy McDuffie, of Dillon, celebrated with her seven year old son, Tramone.  After graduating from high school in 1999 she became a single mom and found a job to support her family.  But after working full time in a manufacturing plant for four years, she came home one day and made a vow to herself and her son.  She promised to start college on the same day Tramone started kindergarten.   Three years later, McDuffie walked across the stage during NETC commencement exercises and received her associate degree in business. She plans to pursue a bachelor’s degree in the fall at Francis Marion University or Coker College.

David Matthews, of McColl, graduated high school in 1983 and went to work as a machine operator in Wagram, NC.  He

sciences, business and industrial technology. A majority of the certificates awarded were in industrial technology and early childhood development while a majority of diplomas were awarded in health sciences.