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SANFORD, N.C. –  With more graduates than ever this year, �ڰ������� has added something new: a December commencement ceremony.

The college’s 67th Commencement Exercises, held Dec. 17 at the Dennis A. Wicker Civic & Conference Center, highlighted the commitment and connection of the Class of 2025. This fall 195 students graduated from �ڰ�������.

“I began my journey relatively alone, but today I graduate with a family that extends beyond blood,” said student graduation speaker Tessa Griffin, who joined �ڰ�������’s Lee Early College amid the pandemic. “You should never be scared to walk alone, but sometimes you are lucky enough that you don’t have to.”

�ڰ������� President Dr. Lisa M. Chapman told the graduates and attendees the college chose to hold this ceremony in addition to its spring and summer graduations because �ڰ������� is seeing so many successful students who also have so many people who support them.

“Thank you for being part of this very historic moment here at the college,” she said. “We are so proud, and so happy that we are here to celebrate you and all of your accomplishments.”

Holiday music played prior to the ceremony and families took photos next to the center’s Christmas tree.

Ty Stumpf, �ڰ�������’s new Dean of Arts and STEM, served as Chief Marshal and Mace Bearer for the event, leading in the faculty and symbolizing the academic tradition and excellence upheld by the institution.

Nine students were honored with academic awards during the graduation ceremony: Sophia Anne Danh, Tessa Griffin, David Andrew Bullock, Samantha Leigh Andrews, Riley Lane Connor, Dani Franchesca Gautier, Krystel Anne Murray Hatcher, Ashlan A. Argo, and Zhivarriya Phillips.

Graduates who are members of the Phi Theta Kappa honor society were also recognized.

Dr. Kristi Short, �ڰ�������’s Vice President and Chief Academic Officer presented the graduates and Board of Trustees Chairman Julian Philpott conferred the diplomas. 

Dr. Chapman greeted each of the graduates and shook their hands. 

“You’ve shown the dedication and the spirit that makes Central Carolina and this community so proud,” she said. “You’ve represented the Cougar nation with excellence, and we know you will continue to do so as alumni.”

Photographs from graduation can be downloaded at from the College Photos website. A video of the event can be seen “On Demand” on .