On May 11, 2024 at 10 a.m., Danville Community College (DCC) hosted its annual commencement exercises at Averett University’s North Campus where 566 candidates for graduation achieved the goal they have been working toward throughout their time at the college.
Following tradition, the students were led into the 2024 Danville Community College Commencement Ceremony by Professor of Graphic Imaging Sheila Wright, faculty marshal, who carries the college mace as a symbol of the professor’s role and preeminence at modern institutions of higher education.
Following the processional, Malachi Morris, a 2018 graduate from DCC’s precision machining program, performed a rendition of the United States National Anthem on saxophone.
“We welcome you to the 2024 Danville Community College Commencement,” said Dr. Jerry Wallace, President of DCC, as he addressed the audience of graduates. “It is your own hard work, dedication, grit, and determination that has brought you here today and we could not be more proud of your achievements.”
During the ceremony, over 550 graduates earned upwards of 840 credentials including more than 240 Associate's degrees, more than 75 Diplomas, and more than 500 Certificates/Career Studies Certificates.
There were 175 honor graduates in the 2023-2024 academic year, meaning they earned their degrees with a grade point average of at least 3.2.
Former Secretary of Education for the Commonwealth of Virginia and Commencement Keynote Speaker Laura Worley Novey addressed the graduates with an inspirational address.
“I want to congratulate all of the graduates gathered here today to celebrate their achievements and all of the family and friends who gave help and support along the way,” said Ms. Novey. “I wish you all the best of luck in your future pursuits.”
From the college’s two honor societies, Phi Theta Kappa Upsilon Phi Chapter, and Alpha Beta Gamma Honor Society, 34 student members graduated on Saturday.
DCC Vice President of Academic Affairs and Student Services Dr. Cornelius Johnson next called upon DCC’s Student Speaker, Trina Holiness-Morris, to recognize the SGA Teacher of the Year: Assistant Professor and Director of Early Childhood Education, Ms. Traci Daniel.
Johnson then presented the college’s annual Stephanie L. Ferguson Medallion of Courage award to Toni Stewart, a student who has shown great determination and perseverance in the face of adversity.
Graduation scholarship recipients were recognized by Shannon Hair, vice president of institutional advancement and development and executive director of the DCC Educational Foundation.
Commencement activities concluded with the movement of tassels from right to left on the students’ mortarboards, followed by cheering and thunderous applause from the gathered friends, family, and community.
DCC’s summer session classes begin on Monday, May 20. The fall 2024 semester begins on Monday, August 21. The final week to register for fall 2024 classes is August 16 through August 20.
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