Commencement Celebrates Accomplishments

South Florida State College celebrated 2016 fall Commencement Thursday evening. You can view a photo gallery of Commencement on Flickr. Approximately 75 students received diplomas, vocational certificates, college credit certificates, and degrees.

“Tonight we celebrate great things,” said Derren J. Bryan, the chair of SFSC’s District Board of Trustees, who delivered the welcome remarks to family and friends of the graduates filling the Wildstein Center’s seats. “For most of you, especially your parents, tonight may be a dream come true.”

Three special guests in attendance were the newly elected superintendents of schools from SFSC’s three-county district: Adrian Cline, DeSoto County; Bob Shayman, Hardee County; and Dr. Brenda Longshore, Highlands County.

Thomas Bush, chair of Technical-Industrial and Agricultural Education, served as the mace bearer and chief marshal for this year’s ceremony. Assisting as marshals were Beth Andrews, Davida Austin, Brian Bohlman, Kathleen Cappo, Robert Hampton, Melanie Jackson, Lorrie Jaques, Dr. Theresa James, Cindy Kinser, Kristina Lewis, Michelle Macbeth, Adam Martin, Claire Miller, Ricardo Pantoja, Lena Phelps, and Bobby Sconyers.

The invocation and benediction were delivered by Ben Carter. Lynn MacNeill announced the names of students as they accepted their diplomas. Doug Andrews, dean emeritus, directed the music and performed with Celebration Brass.

In addition to Bryan, other members of the SFSC District Board of Trustees in attendance were, vice chair Timothy D. Backer, Tami Cullens, Dr. Louis H. Kirschner, Kenneth A. Lambert, Lana C. Puckorius, Kris Y. Rider, and Patrick “Joe” Wright.