RCC ceremonies pave the way for law enforcement, healthcare professionals to join the workforce

Seventy-seven individuals participated in three December ceremonies at Randolph Community College.

“These ceremonies mark a significant milestone in students’ lives, symbolizing the culmination of weeks of hard work, dedication, and academic achievement,” expressed RCC President/CEO Dr. Shah Ardalan.

On Friday, Dec. 8, the CNA Pinning Ceremony took place, featuring a cohort of 27 students who crossed the stage. Among them, Kathleen Martin was one of the four students given the opportunity to speak during the ceremony.

“I was so nervous going into the first day of class. I was so thankful for this class, for everybody that I got to know, and the confidence I gained,” said Martin, who added that she never wanted to be a nurse, but her dad encouraged her to take the career path.

On Monday, Dec. 11, RCC’s 95^th Basic Law Enforcement Training (BLET) class walked across the stage, each having already been hired by a local agency. Class Leader Abigail Carter, who has been hired by the Randolph County Sheriff’s Office, said that, while the grueling 18 weeks of training made the class members question whether they were in the right field, it prepared them for the road ahead.

“We’ve become like a family, and I would trust them with my life, which is truly vital in this line of work,” she said. “Having a support system is especially important in law enforcement.”

A record 39 students earned their Adult High School or High School Equivalency diplomas in the CCR Graduation Ceremony on Dec. 14, including Paola Bumbaca. Originally from Columbia, Bumbaca came to the United States in 2009. She started her RCC journey by enrolling in English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) classes and then earned her diploma. Throughout every step, she said she was encouraged by RCC faculty and staff, even saying that one of the instructors was “like a father.”

“These ceremonies are a transformative moment that often serves as a catalyst for profound personal and professional growth,” Ardalan said.

“The bonds formed during the educational journey become lasting connections that continue to shape and enrich students’ lives. RCC takes pride in being part of this journey. We are also thrilled to extend an invitation to the graduates of the three programs to join our May 8 graduation ceremony in Greensboro. These students are stepping into a future full of possibilities.”

Randolph Community College (RCC), under the leadership of President/CEO Dr. Shah Ardalan, is committed to providing relevant career training and educational opportunities. Affordable degrees and short-term certificate programs start throughout the year, both in person and online. For more information, call 336-633-0200 or visit www.randolph.edu and expect to engage with the most competent and compassionate team of faculty and staff.