By Hannah Isenhour
Southeastern Community College communications
Southeastern Community College’s Transitional Studies program recognized 22 graduates during its 2026 graduation ceremony held June 4.
The ceremony celebrated students whose paths to completion reflected flexibility and persistence. Veronica Powell, Associate Dean of Transitional Studies and Prison Education, welcomed the audience and said removing obstacles to education remained a priority for the program.
Several students completed coursework at off-campus sites closer to where they live, helping reduce transportation challenges that often prevented participation.
“Eliminating barriers that would hinder our students is a priority for us,” Powell said.
Classes were offered at community locations including Men and Women United for Youth and Family in Delco, Fair Bluff Fire and Rescue in Fair Bluff and Grace Fellowship Church in Tabor City. The graduating class also included students enrolled in Basic Skills Plus, who earned both a high school equivalency diploma and a workforce credential.
“We are especially proud of our Basic Skills Plus students who not only received their high school equivalency diploma but also earned credentials in areas such as welding, heavy equipment, early childhood and Nurse Aide I,” Powell said.
Earning a high school equivalency diploma expanded opportunities for graduates in Columbus County. According to MyFutureNC, 12.3 percent of county residents ages 25–44 have less than a high school diploma, limiting job options and earning potential.
“Many employers require a high school diploma or equivalent as a minimum qualification, and earning this credential allows our students access to higher-paying jobs and college or training programs,” Powell explained.
Larry Everette, Transitional Studies Recruiter and High School Equivalency Examiner, said perseverance defined this year’s graduates.
“What I’m most proud of is that they didn’t quit,” Everette said.
He explained that many students balanced jobs, families and transportation challenges while continuing to attend class and work toward completion. Everette said a high school equivalency diploma helped students move forward in both employment and education.
“A high school equivalency diploma can open a lot of doors,” he said.
Graduates completed the HiSET exam, which tested skills in reading, writing, math, science and social studies, and prepared through Transitional Studies classes and practice testing.
Cheri Phillips-Barkley, Career Coach for Transitional Studies and Basic Skills Plus, said she was proud of students for returning to education as adults while balancing work, family and financial responsibilities. She explained that many students faced limited time and self-doubt after being out of school for years, making the decision to return especially challenging. Phillips-Barkley said staff focused on helping students manage both academic and life demands.
“These students didn’t just pass a test,” Phillips-Barkley said. “They showed up every day while managing adult responsibilities, and they proved to themselves that they were capable of more.”
Phillips-Barkley said completing the HiSET often served as a turning point for graduates, especially those dually enrolled in Basic Skills Plus. She explained that earning the credential opened pathways to college programs, technical training and employment opportunities. After graduation, she worked with students to explore degree programs, workforce training or job placement through NCWorks Career Center.
Keniah Nevadia Williams was named valedictorian, and Tyree Montkeith Lewis was named salutatorian of the Transitional Studies class of 2026. Corbett Lovett served as piano accompanist for the “Pomp and Circumstance” processional, and Caleb McAllister performed the National Anthem on trumpet. Transitional Studies Instructor Warren McClelland delivered the invocation. Tabor City School Beta Club served as graduation marshals.
Dr. Brandon Jenkins, SCC Executive Vice President and Chief Academic Officer, delivered opening remarks. Ibreta Jackson, Vice President of Administrative Services and Chief Operating Officer, introduced the keynote speaker. Former Transitional Studies graduate Alyssa Willoughby delivered the keynote address.
Graduates received diplomas from Angie Ransom, Associate Vice President of Education and Training, and SCC President Dr. Chris English. Terrie Priest, Executive Director of the SCC Foundation, made a special presentation of an engraved brick dedicated to the Transitional Studies class of 2026 for the Chadbourn Bell Pavilion. English officially declared the students graduates and asked them to turn their tassels, and the ceremony concluded with a reception in the SCC auditorium lobby.
Ready to earn your High School Equivalency diploma at SCC? Call 910-788-6247 to get started.
