DANVILLE, VA - Danville Community College (DCC) celebrated its 2025 commencement ceremony with pride, inspiration, and unforgettable moments that honored both students and faculty. The event, held on May 17 at Averett University’s North Campus, marked a significant milestone for graduates, families, and the entire DCC community. More than 600 graduates earned nearly 1000 credentials, including career studies certificates, diplomas, and degrees.
The ceremony began with the DCC Ceremonial Mace being carried to the stage by the most senior faculty member and graduation marshal, Steven Carrigan, Assistant Professor of Information Systems Technology, accompanied by the bagpipes.
Dr. Cornelius Johnson, Interim President of Danville Community College, opened the ceremony by welcoming graduates, families, and guests. In his remarks, he extended special recognition to elected officials in attendance, honored the service of military veterans among the graduates and audience, and acknowledged DCC alumni returning to celebrate the occasion.
A standout moment during the ceremony came from keynote speaker Rick Barker, a local philanthropist, entrepreneur, and DCC Alum who delivered a stirring address encouraging graduates to dream big and give back.
In a surprise twist, Barker recognized graduate Enrrique DeJesus Licea Hernandez and announced a $10,000 scholarship to support Enrrique’s educational journey as he transfers to Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU) this fall. The crowd rose in a standing ovation, applauding Barker’s generosity and Enrrique’s achievements.
“Enrrique’s story represents what is possible when dedication, hard work, and community support come together,” Barker said. “It is an honor to help him take the next step in his journey."
Another emotional moment came with the presentation of the Stephanie L. Ferguson Medallion of Courage, awarded annually to a student who has demonstrated extraordinary resilience in the face of adversity. This year’s recipient, Jorge Garcia Mendoza, was recognized for his inspiring perseverance and strength. The award, named for a student who lost her battle with cancer, remains one of the college’s most prestigious honors. The ceremony also recognized excellence among faculty. Chad Secrest, Instructor of Welding, received the Student Government Association’s Teacher of the Year Award, an honor presented by SGA President Koda Thompson. The award reflects student appreciation for Secrest’s dedication, mentorship, and impact in the classroom.
Dr. Shannon Hair, Vice President of Institutional Advancement & Development for DCC and Executive Director of the DCC Educational Foundation presented a number of scholarships to graduates who are transferring to a four-year institution.
The James T. Caitlin, Jr. – Kiwanis Scholarship
Usman Ali
Nena Brockman
Catherine Lewis
The James Bustard Endowed Scholarship
Kameya Graves
Hallie Pulliam
Aiden Reece
The Barksdale Honors Scholarship
Carter Cassell
Tricia Crews
Lydia Davis
Denielle Derocco
Kemeya Graves
Catherine Lewis
Hallie Pulliam
The Bobby Stinespring, Jr. Memorial Scholarship
Brandon Quintero
The D. Randolph “Randy” Davis Memorial Graduation Scholarship
Aiden Reece
The Phoenix Lodge #62 – The Knights of the Pythias Business Graduation Scholarship
Brandon Quintero
The Joseph A. Bostian – Building Excellent Scholars Today Scholarship
Markese Beck
Daishanique Carter
Tiffany Gunter
Enrrique Hernandez
Laura Lewis
Tammy Morgan
Antonio Murphy, Jr.
Naomi Price
The total scholarship award amount for 2025 Graduation Scholarships is $36, 750.
"The DCC Educational Foundation is exceptionally fortunate to have generous donors, like Rick Barker, who support our students financially, both while they are here at DCC and when they transfer to four-year colleges and universities," said Dr. Hair. "Congratulations to the Class of 2025!"
At the close of the ceremony, Interim President Dr. Cornelius Johnson invited the graduates to rise as he formally conferred their degrees, diplomas, and certificates. Cheers and applause echoed throughout the venue as the Class of 2025 turned their tassels, symbolizing the official completion of their academic journey at DCC and the beginning of their next chapter.
“Our graduates have overcome challenges and seized opportunities to better their lives and our community,” Dr. Johnson said. “We are incredibly proud of them and excited for what lies ahead.”
For more information about Danville Community College and its programs, visit Danville.edu.
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