(Marion)With limos, balloons, cheers and cowbells, Marion Technical College awarded 322 graduates a total of 411 degrees and certificates at a drive thru graduation ceremony last Friday on the Marion Campus. Graduates came from 40 counties.
“These graduates overcame many obstacles, including challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic,” said Dr. Ryan McCall, president of MTC. “Many graduates have already been offered jobs and passed licensing boards. They are ready to make a difference!”
Students drove through in cars, trucks and limos, many decked out like a parade. Socially distanced faculty, staff and supporters cheered on graduates as they drove around the campus. Dr. Ryan McCall, president; Dr. Amy Adams, vice president; and Chancellor Randy Gardner with the Ohio Department of Higher Education distributed diplomas and awards.
“The ceremony captures the essence of what we do as our MTC family. It was great to see the graduates’ happy, smiling, proud faces and celebrate their hard work,” said Maureen Pace, associate professor and clinical education coordinator for the Physical Therapist Assistant program.
Tom Stotts, member of Marion Tech’s Alumni Hall of Fame, shared some encouragement in a video message.
“Some of you will be headed on to a four year school. Others of you will be headed on to a new promotion and some will be headed to a new career…. You will prevail!” Stotts shared. “Congratulations to you all!”
The student speaker, Anna Hundley of Marion, also addressed the graduates in a video message.
“I’m proud of each and every one of you. This last semester was not easy, but we made it! I want to say you to all of the teachers who encourage us,” said Hundley, 2020 graduate who earned an Associate of Applied Science Degree in Criminal Justice Technology.
For a full list of the graduates and the honors, go to www.mtc.edu/classof2020/.