Respiratory therapy graduates and their instructors

Twelve respiratory therapy students from �鶹��ýӳ�� were honored during a recent pinning ceremony, marking completion of the educational requirements needed to sit for the national board exam and become registered respiratory therapists. The graduates will enter the healthcare field prepared to treat and support patients with cardiopulmonary diseases.

“This year’s class is truly exceptional,” said Tim King, program director and chair of the respiratory therapy program. “They have navigated shifts in modern healthcare protocols and demonstrated an unwavering commitment to both their studies and the well-being of their patients. Their ability to support one another through class, labs and clinical rotations shows they are not just knowledgeable clinicians, but deeply compassionate caregivers.”

Respiratory therapists serve on the frontline of cardiopulmonary care, managing acute asthma attacks, trauma cases and ventilator support, King noted.

�鶹��ýӳ�� congratulates the following graduates, who will begin practicing in local hospitals and clinics: Keyshanna Baker, Mikaela Brake, Emma Camp, Nikita Davis, Cloey East-Garris, Catherine Johnson, JaMeshia Johnson, Kristen Joyner, Kaylee Richardson, Keri Stewart, Elizabeth Strickland and La’Tanya Willoughby.

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Pictured l-r (center) Kimbely Byron-Barnes, program chair for medical assisting, Leaha Foltz, Taylor Batts, Je’Shayron Williams, Kathy Cruz and Julie Walker, instructor

�鶹��ýӳ�� recognized its medical assisting graduates on May 7 during a pinning ceremony in Barnes Auditorium on the Rocky Mount campus. The four graduates recited the Medical Assisting Creed, affirming values such as trust, loyalty, service, compassion, courage and faith.

The ceremony marked the culmination of classroom instruction, laboratory experience and clinical training that prepare students for a rewarding healthcare career.

“Through dedication, hard work and hands-on training, the 2026 graduating class developed the knowledge, skill and confidence needed to begin successful careers in healthcare,” said Kimberly Byron-Barnes, program chair for medical assisting. “They consistently demonstrated compassion, professionalism and a commitment to learning while preparing to make a positive impact in the lives of their patients and communities.”

Medical assisting students are trained in clinical, administrative and professional competencies. Byron-Barnes noted that graduates learn to administer injections and medications, perform phlebotomy and specimen collection, manage patient information, process medical insurance and billing, and more.

�鶹��ýӳ�� congratulates its 2026 medical assisting graduates: Taylor Batts, Kathy Cruz, Leaha Foltz and Je’Shayron Williams.

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Pictured l-r are: Lauryn King, Karlee Hammack, Jasmine Kearney, Jessica Lopez-Riano, Dori Sullivan, Kaitlyn Green, Alexis Clemmons and Anna Blair

Amie Sasser, a CT/MRI instructor and clinical coordinator at �鶹��ýӳ��, delivered her remarks to the eight graduates who were pinned May 6 during �鶹��ýӳ��’s Radiography Pinning Ceremony. Sasser urged �鶹��ýӳ��’s Radiography Class of 2026 to pursue success while keeping a greater purpose at the center of their work. She framed her message around three words: precision, patience and purpose.

“You did not choose an easy path,” Sasser told the graduates. “You chose a profession that lives at the intersection of technology and humanity. You chose a field where a fraction of a millimeter matters, where timing is everything, and where the images you produce can change the entire course of someone’s life.”

Sasser reminded the graduates that integrity, resilience and compassion remain essential in every environment. “You’ve learned protocols, anatomy, pathology and physics,” she said. “But beyond all of that, you’ve learned something even more important—how to care for people in moments of vulnerability.”

Desiree Duncan, radiography program chair, shared that sentiment.

“Eight strong, this year’s radiography class stood out not just for sharp minds and fearless critical thinking, but for a natural, generous leadership that lifted everyone around them,” said Duncan. “They challenged the status quo with genuine curiosity, taught me more about AI than I ever expected to learn, and turned innovation into everyday practice. I see this group setting a new standard for patient centered imaging in our community—safer, smarter and more compassionate—because they don’t just master the technology; they humanize it.”

Seven of the eight graduates already passed the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT) exam on their first attempt, according to Duncan. The last graduate will take the test later this month. Graduates must pass this national exam to become registered radiographers. Passing earns them the title of R.T.(R)(ARRT). This title shows they are registered radiologic technologists with the ARRT. Once certified, these versatile professionals can work in a variety of healthcare settings. These places include hospitals, clinics, doctor’s offices, labs, government agencies, and other healthcare settings.

Following a student address to classmates by class president Karlee Hammack, the eight radiography graduates received their pins from faculty members Deanne Swartout, Melissa Davis, Denise Spence and Kimberly Brayboy.

The members of the Radiography Class of 2026 are Lauryn King, Karlee Hammack, Jasmine Kearney, Jessica Lopez-Riano, Dori Sullivan, Kaitlyn Green, Alexis Clemmons and Anna Blair.
The Academic Excellence Award was presented to Karlee Hammack, the radiography student with the highest-grade point average. Dori Sullivan received the Lynwood D. Twisdale Memorial Award, presented to the best all-around student who demonstrates the best attitude, best performance, and excellent proficiency.

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�鶹��ýӳ��’s largest Associate Degree Nursing graduates were pinned two days before commencement

�鶹��ýӳ�� recognized its Associate Degree Nursing graduates on May 6 during the annual pinning ceremony on the Tarboro campus. The 54 graduates were pinned two days before �鶹��ýӳ��’s commencement ceremony.

“This year’s ADN pinning ceremony was especially meaningful as we celebrated 54 graduates — the largest graduating class in our program’s history,” said Ami Denton, director of nursing programs. “Their dedication, resilience and compassion represent the future of nursing, and we are incredibly proud to welcome them into the profession.”

All graduates have met the education requirements to take the NCLEX-RN, the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses.

During the ceremony, graduates heard an inspiring message from Dr. Sherri Smith Hamiel, DNP, RN. Hamiel is a nursing instructor with more than two decades of experience in healthcare. She began her career as a certified nursing assistant in high school and has since worked in several specialties, including cardiopulmonary, telemetry, gastrointestinal, school nursing and clinical education.

Hamiel is an �鶹��ýӳ�� alumna who earned an associate degree in nursing. She later completed a Bachelor of Science in Nursing, a Master of Science in Nursing Education and a Doctor of Nursing Practice degree.

As part of the ceremony, Mishay Wheeler and Brianna Dawson received DAISY Awards. Established in 1999, the DAISY Award recognizes nursing students who demonstrate compassion, advocacy and leadership. The award was created by the DAISY Foundation in memory of J. Patrick Barnes, who died at age 33 from an autoimmune disease. His family established the foundation to honor the nurses who cared for him.

Pictured l-r Instructor Lisa Jenkins, Brianna Dawson, Mishay Wheeler and Renee Mayo, vice president of patient care services, CNO at ECU Health Edgecombe Hospital

�鶹��ýӳ�� congratulates the Associate Degree Nursing Class of 2026:

MD Jubayer Alam
Ashanti Anstead
Kimberly Battle
Jayla Boyd
Katrina Broadie
Jazmine Casanova
Maira Caudle
Fatou Cham
Baylee Clark
Emily Colt
Nicole Coombs
Takia Daniels
Hannah Davis
Brianna Dawson
Tamara Dildy
Squia Eatmon
Willette Edge
Olivia Edwards
Stacy Exum
Montressee Ferrell
Latisha Godard
Jarell Ham
Nyesha Hardy
Amberly Harris
Bailey Hicks
Casey Holmes
Luv Hope
Quinisha Horne
Tasha Hunter
Mya Johnson
Alexis Knight
Caroline Matia
Jeannette McDaniel
Malinda Mitchell
Debrisha Morris-Hardy
Serena Petway
Lakesha Powell
Lillie Ribeiro
Shannon Ricks
Trudy Roberson
Sainabou Samba
Sarah Shelton
Tiffany Speight
Shaqina Spencer
Tyvon Sumler
Alina Timberlake
Alana Tyson-Paredes
Melissa Vega
Tiara Webb
Mishay Wheeler
Devan Whitehurst
Requita Williams
Shakelia Williams
Taylor Williams

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“Built here. Now what?” That was the message delivered by Ron Green, chief executive officer of the Boys & Girls Clubs of the Tar River Region, during �鶹��ýӳ��’s commencement ceremony on Friday, May 8.

Green emphasized the role of community colleges in shaping students’ futures, telling graduates that being “built” at a community college carries meaning.

Tara Davis

“You see that word ‘community.’ It matters, because community colleges don’t just educate you. They elevate you,” Green said. “They don’t require perfection. They develop potential.”

Green, who has led the organization in the Tar River Region for 14 years, said he related to the graduates. He began his own academic journey at Itawamba Community College in Mississippi, an experience he said gave him confidence.

“It taught me that my starting point didn’t define my ceiling,” he said. “Where I began didn’t limit where I could go.”

�鶹��ýӳ�� awarded credentials to 553 graduates in the Class of 2026. The college conferred 207 degrees, 123 diplomas and 223 certificates. Another 55 students completed Adult High School Equivalency or Adult High School diplomas.

�鶹��ýӳ�� President Dr. Greg McLeod encouraged graduates to continue advancing toward their goals.

Eddie Batchelor IV

“Whether your next step is transferring to a four-year institution, returning here for another credential, or applying the training you have received in your career or business, don’t stop moving. Keep going,” McLeod said.

Among the graduates was Tara Davis, �鶹��ýӳ��’s Academic Excellence Award recipient. Davis earned an associate degree in applied science in surgical technology with a 4.0 grade-point average and is already working as a surgical technology associate at the ECU Health Heart Institute Cardiovascular Operating Room.

Other honorees included Eddie Batchelor IV, recipient of the Governor Robert W. Scott Student Leadership Award, which recognizes exemplary student leadership. Batchelor, a student ambassador and member of Phi Theta Kappa, will continue his studies at North Carolina Wesleyan University this fall.

Erma Battle-Mills received the Dallas Herring Achievement Award, presented to a student who exemplifies Herring’s philosophy of “taking people where they are and carrying them as far as they can go.” Battle-Mills earned her high school equivalency at age 76 and is enrolled in �鶹��ýӳ��’s digital navigator’s course.

Erma Battle-Mills

Three graduates were recognized for having the highest grade-point averages in their academic divisions: Alfredo Hernandez Garcia (Arts and Sciences), Ashley Culbertson (Business, Industry and Technologies) and Taylor Batts (Health Sciences).

Green closed his remarks by encouraging graduates to remember the childhood game rock, paper, scissors as a metaphor for navigating life’s challenges.

“When life looks at you and asks ‘now what?’ remember this,” he said. “The rock—find the person who will hold you down. The paper—keep sharpening your pencil because your story is still being written. Scissors—identify the people, places and things you need to cut out of your life to reach your dreams.”

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Two graduation ceremonies took place March 11 on the Tarboro campus of �鶹��ýӳ��. Eight students in the college’s natural hair care program received their certifications, while four earned certifications in manicuring nail technology.

“Over the course of three months, our natural hair care and nail graduates have committed themselves to learning, practicing, and perfecting their craft,” said Georgina Bond, program chair for cosmetology. “They have not only mastered technique, but embraced the discipline, creativity and confidence required to thrive in this industry.”

Nail technology students receive instruction and practice in manicuring, nail building and pedicuring. Students in the natural hair care program have studied and practiced chemical-free hair styling.

“As they take this next step, they now prepare to sit for their state board exams, an important milestone on the path to becoming licensed professionals,” continued Bond. “With the knowledge they’ve gained and the dedication they’ve shown, they are well-equipped to succeed.”

The Spring 2026 graduates, pictured from l-r in the front row are: Mercedes Veltri (natural hair), Ashley Tyson (natural hair), Shaelah King (natural hair), Cynthia Noel (natural hair), Asia Alston (natural hair), Kanashia Arrington (natural hair) and Rhonda Ruffin (nail technology). Pictured in the back row are: Janiyah Slade (natural hair), Erica Shaw (natural hair), Treasure Cary (nail technology) and Akavia Leach (nail technology). Not pictured: Ambria Johnson (nail technology).

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Erma Battle

Life hasn’t always been easy for Erma Battle, but her determination has never wavered. The vibrant 76-year-old recently visited the Campus Store at �鶹��ýӳ�� to select the perfect frame for her diploma. After completing the High School Equivalency program, she is eagerly preparing to walk across the stage at �鶹��ýӳ��’s commencement in May — a milestone that has been decades in the making.

Battle recalls growing up with her grandmother and attending a small school during the height of segregation.

“Back in my day, they had a one-room class,” Battle said. “There was no mixing (of the races), and I helped by working in the kitchen.”

By 1965, the Whitakers native was pregnant and had to leave school. With a tenth-grade education, she moved to Washington, D.C., where she worked for Trailways and later held jobs as a machine operator, cook and door greeter. After losing her oldest child at age 41, suffering an injury, and going on disability, Battle knew she wanted her next chapter to be about fulfillment.

“I promised my mother that if I lived to see it, I was going to finish my GED,” she said.

That promise eventually led her to �鶹��ýӳ��. After years of obstacles and a struggle with confidence, Battle says the instructors and fellow students became her support system.

“My hair might be gray, but one thing about it is, you will not stop me,” she said. “Mr. Sykes and Mrs. Sessoms gave me so much respect — not only them but the students.”

Known affectionately as “Grandma,” Battle studied diligently and met all requirements to complete the program. She now joins a family of women who have prioritized education, including a daughter, granddaughter, and niece who are nurses. Nursing was also her mother’s profession.

“I tell my daughter I am proud, and I talk to my mom, even though she is dead and gone. I told her, ‘Ma, I got it.’”

What’s next for the 76-year-old? She hopes to help others, possibly by training as a nurse’s aide.

“It’s so much you can do to help elderly people,” she said. “They need help, and they may not have the right help.”

Now a Battleboro resident, Battle is still taking classes at �鶹��ýӳ�� and is currently learning about computers.

Look for Erma Battle during �鶹��ýӳ��’s graduation on May 8.

“I’m proud of Edgecombe,” she said. “I am proud of my experience.”

The High School Equivalency program at �鶹��ýӳ�� assists adult learners in earning the equivalent of a high school diploma. The program is offered at no charge. For more information or to apply, call 252-618-6707 for the Rocky Mount campus or 252-618-6680 for the Tarboro campus.

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Ron Green

Ron Green, chief executive officer of the Boys & Girls Clubs of the Tar River Region, will deliver the keynote address at �鶹��ýӳ��’s on Friday, May 8.

Green, who has led the organization for 14 years, is widely recognized for strengthening youth development across Nash and Edgecombe counties. Under his leadership, the eight local clubs have incorporated initiatives that support academic achievement.

In 2025, Green received the national Blue Spirit Award, one of the highest honors presented by Boys & Girls Clubs of America. The award is given to only five CEOs nationwide for extraordinary service. Green has worked in the Boys & Girls Club movement for more than 26 years. He also serves as a national trainer for Boys & Girls Clubs of America and is dean of the Society of African American Professionals. His past leadership roles include serving on the organization’s President’s National Advisory Council. He is a member of the Achievement Academy Committee for the Grand Chapter of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc.

“Since its founding, �鶹��ýӳ�� has been committed to fostering student success and community prosperity for all, and Ron Green’s work with the Boys & Girls Clubs of the Tar River Region aligns with that vision,” said �鶹��ýӳ�� President Dr. Greg McLeod. “He has guided countless young people who have gone on to excel in their careers, and our community has benefitted from his leadership and training.”

A Mississippi native, Green began his higher education journey at Itawamba Community College in Fulton, Miss. where he earned an associate degree. He later completed a bachelor’s degree at Bethel University in McKenzie, Tenn. He also attended Samford University in Birmingham, Ala., where he played baseball and football before beginning a five-year professional baseball career in the Chicago Cubs organization.

Green has continued to pursue professional development throughout his career. He completed executive education in Performance Measurement for Effective Management of Nonprofit Organizations at Harvard University’s John F. Kennedy School of Government. He holds a certificate in nonprofit management from Duke University. Additionally, Green is a Six Sigma Green Belt, a certified professional and executive coach, and he holds a certification in gamification from the University of Pennsylvania.

“I am ecstatic that Ron accepted our invitation to serve as �鶹��ýӳ��’s 2026 Commencement speaker,” McLeod said. “I am looking forward to hearing his uplifting message that I know will resonate with our graduates.”

Green lives in Rocky Mount with his wife, Robbie. They have two children, Channing and London, both graduates of North Carolina A&T State University.

�鶹��ýӳ��’s Commencement ceremony will be held Friday, May 8, at 4 p.m. in Astemo Auditorium, located in the Fleming Building on the Tarboro campus.

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Pictured from left to right: Mattalyn Rouse, Brittany Cox, Bidjie Fevrier, Suzi Shippen-Wagner (program chair), Kaitlyn Watkins, Maria Lopez, and Tara Davis.

�鶹��ýӳ�� celebrated its surgical technology graduates with a pinning ceremony on Dec. 12. The six graduates have successfully completed the academic requirements qualifying them to sit for the national certification exam administered by the National Board of Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting.

Surgical technologists play a vital role, supporting nurses, surgeons and other healthcare professionals. Their responsibilities center on maintaining a sterile environment and ensuring proper preparation before, during and after surgical procedures.

Congratulations to this year’s surgical technology graduates.

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�鶹��ýӳ�� held its Emergency Medical Services graduation ceremony Dec. 4 in Tarboro. Sixty-two students completed their training, receiving their certificate and eligibility to take the state test and become certified. Of those 62 students, 37 completed Emergency Medical Technician (EMT), 14 completed Advanced Emergency Medical Technician (AEMT), and 11 completed paramedic training.

An EMT delivers emergency medical services outside of the hospital, such as at homes, accident scenes, public places and in ambulances. The AEMT program is designed for individuals who are already EMT’s. In this program, they advance their knowledge and ability to provide treatment. Paramedics are licensed to provide a wide range of advanced emergency services and some complex procedures outside of the hospital.

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