WHITEVILLE — Twenty‑two students crossed the stage June 4 as Southeastern Community College’s Transitional Studies program celebrated its 2026 graduating class, a group defined by persistence, flexibility and a determination to remove barriers standing between them and a high school equivalency diploma.
Associate Dean Veronica Powell, who oversees Transitional Studies and Prison Education, welcomed families and supporters and emphasized the program’s mission to meet students where they are — literally.
Many graduates completed coursework at off‑campus community sites in Delco, Fair Bluff, and Tabor City, reducing transportation challenges that often prevent adult learners from returning to school.
“Eliminating barriers that would hinder our students is a priority for us,” Powell said.
The class also included students in Basic Skills Plus, who earned both a high school equivalency diploma and a workforce credential in fields such as welding, heavy equipment, early childhood education and Nurse Aide I.
Powell noted the impact of the credential in Columbus County, where 12.3% of residents ages 25–44 lack a high school diploma, according to MyFutureNC.
“Many employers require a high school diploma or equivalent as a minimum qualification,” she said. “Earning this credential allows our students access to higher‑paying jobs and college or training programs.”
Perseverance at the center
Transitional Studies Recruiter and High School Equivalency Examiner Larry Everette said this year’s graduates succeeded because they refused to give up.
“What I’m most proud of is that they didn’t quit,” Everette said, noting that many students balanced work, family responsibilities and transportation challenges while preparing for the HiSET exam.
Career Coach Cheri Phillips‑Barkley said returning to education as an adult requires courage, especially for students who have been out of school for years.
“These students didn’t just pass a test,” she said. “They showed up every day while managing adult responsibilities, and they proved to themselves that they were capable of more.”
Phillips‑Barkley works with graduates after completion to explore college programs, workforce training and job placement through NCWorks Career Center.
Ceremony highlights
- Valedictorian: Keniah Nevadia Williams
- Salutatorian: Tyree Montkeith Lewis
- Invocation: Warren McClelland, Transitional Studies Instructor
- National Anthem: Caleb McAllister, trumpet
- Processional: Corbett Lovett, piano
- Marshals: Tabor City School Beta Club
Former Transitional Studies graduate Alyssa Willoughby delivered the keynote address. Opening remarks were given by Dr. Brandon Jenkins, SCC Executive Vice President and Chief Academic Officer. Ibreta Jackson, Vice President of Administrative Services and COO, introduced the keynote speaker.
Graduates received diplomas from Angie Ransom, Associate Vice President of Education and Training, and Dr. Chris English, SCC President. A special engraved brick honoring the Class of 2026 will be placed at the Chadbourn Bell Pavilion, presented by Terrie Priest, Executive Director of the SCC Foundation.
English officially declared the students graduates and invited them to turn their tassels. A reception followed in the SCC auditorium lobby.
Interested in earning your diploma?
Call 910‑788‑6247 to learn how to begin your own high school equivalency journey through SCC’s Transitional Studies program.
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