This past week, 27 graduates from seven different programs celebrated the completion of their certifications during the Workforce Programs graduation ceremony.
The graduates were awarded certificates from short-term, non-credit workforce programs designed to lead directly to workforce credentials and, oftentimes, employment immediately following completion.
Graduates from the Clinical Medical Assistant program include Redonna Reynolds of Patrick County.
Graduates from the Phlebotomy Technicians program include Sheila Smart of Vesta.
Graduates from the Veterinary Assistants program include Michaela Hulsey of Spencer.
The speakers during the graduation were Clinical Medical Assistant graduate Christina McKenzie, industry leader Fred Akers, and PHCC president Angeline Godwin. These speakers emphasized the power of perseverance and celebrated graduates’ success in the face of challenges.
The keynote speaker, Fred Akers, is the chief quality assurance specialist of Biscuitville and a PHCC workforce fall 2013 graduate. In his speech, he discussed how he faced many challenges on his pathway to a career.
After leaving the military on disability, Akers found himself without a car to get to class or food to feed his family. From living out of his garden to becoming the overseer of 50 stores, Akers’ journey was both relatable and inspiring to the graduates who, in many cases, faced challenges in their own journeys. He implored graduates to treasure family and community. Akers said that the education and the supportive community he discovered at PHCC made all difference in his journey.
