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SANFORD, N.C. — With the skirl of bagpipes echoing through the Dennis A. Wicker Civic & Conference Center, �ڰ������� proudly celebrated the Class of 2025 on May 15 in a jubilant series of commencement ceremonies that honored the resilience, dedication, and dreams of over 800 graduates.

The day was filled with heartfelt speeches, proud families, and the joyful embrace of achievement, as approximately 815 students — including 212 fall graduates — crossed the stage to receive a total of 873 credentials. To accommodate the number of graduates, �ڰ������� held four ceremonies throughout the day at 9 a.m., 11 a.m., 1:30 p.m., and 3:30 p.m.

A Celebration of Promise and Purpose

�ڰ������� President Dr. Lisa M. Chapman delivered an inspiring address that recognized the significance of the graduates’ accomplishments and the promise they hold for the future.

"Today we celebrate a remarkable journey, one filled with determination, hard work, and resilience. It’s a journey that has brought our graduates to this incredible moment, and I am proud of each and every one of you,” said Dr. Chapman.

“We’re not only here to celebrate your accomplishments and your perseverance, we’re also here to celebrate your future. And what it means to our communities,” said Dr. Chapman.

Dr. Chapman told the graduates that they will mean more and more to our communities, “and you will continue to make us proud every single day. I’m thanking you for what you’ve done to this point. And I’m thanking you for what I absolutely know you’re going to do. Whether you’re stepping into the workforce, continuing your education, or starting something entirely new, I also want you to know that you carry the strength of this family with you. And the belief of this college family with you.”

Voices of the Class of 2025

Eight student speakers — each representing different programs of study — offered personal reflections and heartfelt messages that resonated with the graduating class:

Aracely Guerrero (Associate in Applied Science in Dental Hygiene): “Today is more than just a ceremony. It’s a celebration of our hard work, dedication, and the transformation within ourselves. … So to my fellow graduates: take pride in what you’ve accomplished.”

Ingrid McAuley (Associate in Applied Science in Social and Human Services): “Let today be a launching point, not a finish line. Let the obstacles we’ve overcome remind us of our strength. Let the goals we’ve achieved spark even greater dreams. Let our growth be the reason we reach back and lift others up. The world needs us, our voices, our hearts, and our unwavering belief in change.”

Olympia Brooks (Associate in Applied Science in Bioprocess Technology): “To my fellow graduates — this moment is ours. We’ve proven that even when the road gets tough, we get tougher. So, let’s take this spirit into the world and continue to rise, to lead, and to inspire.”

Sally Cabrera (Associate in Applied Science in Computer Engineering Technology, Associate in Applied Science in Electronics Engineering Technology and Associate in Science): “As we step into the world beyond graduation, let's embrace our passions wholeheartedly. When our work aligns with what we love, success becomes natural, and every effort feels lighter. …  May each of us find the inspiration that makes our work — and our lives — joyful and meaningful.”

Brianna Hickerson (Associate in Science): “As we celebrate today, remember that we didn’t just earn degrees. We reshaped our stories. This chapter is closing, but a new one is just beginning. And the strength that brought us here will carry us forward.”

Angel Rivera (Associate in Arts & Associate in Science): “Let the things you’ve learned here at Central Carolina be more than tools for work or school. Let them be the foundation for the kind of character you present to others. Strive to be mentors to those who need one, the kind of friend we all want around, the person others look forward to seeing at work or in the field.”

Ruby Hernandez-Falcon (Associate in Applied Science in Culinary Arts): “We may all come from different backgrounds and experiences, yet we are all here to achieve the same goal. Getting a degree and taking that first big stepping stone into our careers. All achieved by making connections, gaining experiences in our fields, and studying consistently.”

Eva Rials (Associate in Arts): “You’ve accomplished a milestone in your life, not just because someone else believed in you, but because you believed in yourself. Now, take that belief and sense of accomplishment and run with it, as fast and as far as you can.”

Academic Honors and Special Recognitions

Outstanding academic achievements were celebrated with special honors across all ceremonies. Students recognized for earning the highest academic distinction included:

9 a.m. Ceremony: Ambar M. Quinones, Virginia Rose Hutchins, Loreli Stall, Duncan James Hay Steinson, Pamela Mitarotondo, Joely Michelle Faulkner, Tiana Michelle Phelps, and Jazmine Nicole Cowan.

11 a.m. Ceremony: Margaret Patricia Safrit and Dana Schouten.

1:30 p.m. Ceremony: Zoey Mae Ainsworth, Kelsey Andrews, Silvia Cristal Gama Rios, Vielka Ninel Gonzalez Gomez, Hannah Kerkhover, Margaret Patricia Safrit, Jack Triglianos, Ruby Naomi Williams, and Julianna Hope Mouser.

3:30 p.m. Ceremony: Silvia Cristal Gama Rios, Maelyn Marie Marbury, Eva Ann Rials, Catarina Rye, Raina Marie Bullard, and Kristina May Decker.

Phi Theta Kappa honor society members were also acknowledged for their excellence and commitment to academic achievement.

Music, Tradition, and Inspiration

Graduation ceremonies featured musical performances by a talented ensemble: Ken Hoyle and Samantha Lane (violins), Karen Huey (viola), David Watson (guitar), Lauren Winkens (clarinet), Alyson Cochrane and Elisabeth Crandall (cellos), and Carole Troutman (piano). The iconic bagpipe performance was provided by Peter McArthur, and Alexandra Berndt Dowdy, �ڰ������� Director of Executive Operations, performed the National Anthem at the morning ceremonies.

Invocation speakers brought spiritual reflection and encouragement, including Rev. Sara Martin (Edgewood Presbyterian Church), Pastor Brian Charland (Jonesboro Heights Baptist Church), Pastor Daniel Owens (Life Springs Church), and Rev. Jerry Parsons (Holly Springs Baptist Church).

Honoring Faculty and Leadership

Dr. Lisa Smelser, �ڰ������� Faculty Member of the Year, served as Chief Marshal and Mace Bearer. Diplomas were presented by Dr. Kristi Short, Vice President/Chief Academic Officer, and conferred by �ڰ������� Board of Trustees Chair Julian Philpott (9 a.m. and 11 a.m.) and Trustee Member Gladys McAuley (1:30 p.m. and 3:30 p.m.).

Special recognition was also given to retiring faculty members Richard Love and Shirley Rijkse, honoring their dedication to �ڰ������� and its students.

Capturing the Moment

Following each ceremony, proud families and friends gathered for photos, laughter, and shared joy, capturing the memories of a momentous day.

To relive the celebration:

* Watch .  

* Download photos from the ceremonies

Congratulations, Class of 2025 — your future begins now, and it’s bright with possibility.