MOUNT VERNON – As the strains of "Pomp and Circumstance" filled the air, a line of graduates marched down the aisle to take their seats for Knox Technical Center’s commencement on July 7, 2022. They now hold certificates and diplomas for a variety of fields and represent a range of age groups from recent high school graduates to experienced adults who are changing careers.
"We are so proud of our graduates,” said Kim Williams, KTC director. “They understood the value in attending a career technical institution, not only for the return on investment, but the ability to complete an educational program in a short period of time. Our graduates are now certified or licensed and ready for the workforce!"
Family and friends came from near and far to support the graduates and witness this important transition. The family of Zebida Fares, an LPN to RN transition graduate, traveled 8,000 miles from Tanzania.
“I have known her since she was born and am very, very happy for her,” said Happy Kumila, Zebida’s aunt. “She is a loving niece with a kind heart. Knowing she will be caring for people in need makes me feel so proud of her.”
The graduates completed programs in fields such as certified administrative assistant; emergency medical technician – basic; firefighter 1 & 2; LPN to RN transition; maintenance technician; phlebotomy; practical nursing; and welding. The student in each program who achieved the highest academic score received special recognition from Ohio Lt. Gov. Jon Husted, whose representative Michael Kahoe presented them with proclamations recognizing their achievement.
“I’m surprised how far I’ve come in this program, honestly,” said Heidi Hendershot, who was honored as the top student from the welding program. “I’m really hard on myself … but I’ve worked really hard and I have had a great experience here.”
This was a particularly momentous event for those who earned a high school equivalency diploma (either a GED or adult diploma from the Ohio Department of Education).
Jocelyn Sebastian-Ward, a phlebotomy and adult diploma graduate, said, “KTC changed my life in so many wonderful ways. I’m so grateful to all the teachers and staff that supported me through this journey.”
Mount Vernon Mayor Matt Starr gave the commencement address.
“Seeing 65 new graduates who have credentialed certifications or a GED is exciting because it shows initiative and persistence of our community members,” Starr said. “It also is a terrific example of economic development in our community because it raises the bar of our local talent.”
The school is now gearing up for the next year’s classes.
"As one of the 51 Ohio Technical Centers, we are committed to providing our students the skills needed to successfully enter the workforce and to retain employment," Williams said.
