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Rebecca Boatwright (right), of Wallace, poses with her sister, Tonya Jasinki, an NETC alumnus. Boatwright received her associate degree in business during NETC's 2009 commencement exercise and plans to pursue additional education to help her advance in her career at Baldor in Dillon, SC. Jasinski graduated from NETC in 1995 with an associate degree in arts. She went on to earn a bachelor and master’s degree from UNC Pembroke, and a PhD from The University of South Carolina. |
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June 3, 2009
NETC Graduates More than 160
Northeastern Technical College celebrated commencement exercises on May 30, marking the entrance of 167 well-trained and qualified graduates into the workforce of Chesterfield, Marlboro and Dillon counties.
In a jubilant event featuring inspiring words from State Senator Vincent Sheheen, NETC conferred degrees, diplomas and certificates in thirteen different disciplines.
“This is your day and we are pleased to be able to share in your accomplishments,” said NETC President Dr. Ron Bartley, who expressed his gratitude and honor to the graduates for choosing NETC as the place to pursue their pathways to higher education.
He also encouraged the graduates to retain that thirst for knowledge.
“Learning and the pursuit of truth are valuable and everlasting treasures that will always benefit you and the pursuit of your dreams,” said Bartley.
Senator Sheheen congratulated the graduates for choosing to improve their lives through education and urged everyone in the community to reject the ease of a passive existence and forge their own futures.
“It is up to you to choose a different path to improve your own life and make your own fate,” he said commending the graduates for taking the necessary steps. “Because you’ve choose to make that decision, you’re on the cusp of making greater decisions that will impact you and those around you.”
Sheheen also spoke of South Carolina’s need to reestablish itself in education and industry, particularly through initiatives and funding. In what he characterized as a call to action, Sheheen asked that all community members work for investments in education in order to realize the tremendous potential of South Carolina and its citizens.
“We have to each put our shoulder to the plow to make this difference,” he said. “By improving your own life, you have the potential to improve the lives of everyone in the state”.
In closing, Sheheen applauded the hard work and focus of the graduates and asked that they continue working for their goals while at the same time forging a course that is best for their communities.
Several graduates expressed their eagerness to get out into the workforce and make a positive change in their communities.
Leah Price, of Bennettsville, received her associate degree in business during the ceremony and expressed her desire to do just that.
“Not only did I make lifelong friends at NETC, I also obtained an education that gave me skills that are relative to the workplace and my desire to make a difference,” she said. “I definitely recommend NETC to those who are ready to follow in my footsteps.”
Marcus Allen watched with pride as his mother-in-law, Linda Ford, of Bennettsville, accepted her degree in early childhood education. Ford, who graduated with honors, is returning to the workforce and found a connection between what she loves and her career aspirations while enrolled at NETC.
“She really loves children and the college’s program in early childhood education has been a good fit for her and her career goals,” said Allen.
NETC was also a good fit for graduate Cameron Bullard, of Laurel Hill, N.C. Bullard, who received an industrial technology degree, praised his instructors and recommended NETC to anyone interested in expanding their knowledge and education.
“You just need to work hard and stay focused,” said Bullard when asked what advice he would give to new students at the college. “Eventually, it will all pay off.”
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