Every semester after classes begin, SCC offers a selection of courses that can be taken at an accelerated pace.

These classes are designed for students who realize they could add a few hours to their course-load and also for anyone who wasn’t able to start right when the regular semester began.

Check out the chart below for a complete listing of Enroll Anytime classes. To get started, contact SCC Enrollment Services at 828.339.4352, admissions@southwesterncc.edu or drop by your nearest SCC location.

Submissions are now being accepted for the 16th edition of the Milestone, the biennial art and literary review published by Southwestern Community College.

Milestone showcases the creative expressions of local writers and visual artists. The periodical is representative of the abundance of talent in the region and seeks to foster creative potential by providing artists an opportunity to gain public awareness.

All residents of Jackson, Macon, Swain counties and the Qualla Boundary, as well as SCC students and alumni, are eligible. Only unpublished work may be submitted. Prose should not exceed 2,000 words, and poems should be limited to two pages in length. Each writer may submit up to five poems and up to two stories. All prose must be double-spaced and submitted in paper format or via email. In addition, each page must be numbered, and the author’s name, address, telephone number and email address should be included by itself on the last page of each submission.

Visual artists and photographers may submit only black-and-white copies of original artwork. Visual arts may include black-and-white artwork in pencil, pen, ink, watercolor, digital art and/or black-and-white photography.

Submissions for visual arts must also include name, address, telephone number, email address, title of work and photo caption (if applicable) on the back of each submission. Artists and photographers may also submit more than one work.

First- and second-place cash prizes will be awarded in three categories: poetry, prose (short story or nonfiction works) and visual arts, including photography. 

Literary submissions must be postmarked by Dec. 1, and sent to SCC Milestone, Attn. Mike Park; 447 College Drive; Sylva, NC 28779 or via email to milestone@SouthwesternCC.edu. Submissions in visual art must be postmarked by the same date and sent to the same address, Attn. Bob Keeling or via email to bkeeling@SouthwesternCC.edu.

For more information, contact Mike Park at milestone@SouthwesternCC.edu or 828.339.4215.

SCC’s Board of Trustees welcomed two new members during a regularly scheduled meeting on July 28, and another Trustee was appointed for a new term.

Logan Gillespie of Franklin and Sam Pattillo of Bryson City were officially sworn in as the newest board members by Kim Poteet, Jackson County Clerk of Superior Court in the Slagle Board Room of the Burrell Building at SCC’s Jackson Campus. 

Jack Debnam of Sylva was sworn in for his second term.

Gillespie’s term on the board ends on June 30, 2027. The terms for Pattillo and Debnam run through June 30, 2030.

“Taking the Oath of Office is a meaningful commitment to higher education, student success and civic stewardship,” said Dr. Don Tomas, SCC President. “I want to personally congratulate these trustees as they take on this important honor and guide our vision forward.”

Gillespie was appointed by the Macon County Board of Commissioners and is the second generation in his family to serve in this capacity. His father, current N.C. Representative Karl Gillespie, was a member of SCC’s Board of Trustees from 2015-19.

Logan Gillespie holds a Bachelor’s of Science from the Georgia Institute of Technology and is the Vice President of National Communications, Inc.

“I am excited to support the mission of SCC serving our region and opening the door to opportunities for each student,” Logan Gillespie said. “Living and working in Western North Carolina, it becomes clear the importance of SCC to our community, and I am honored to serve.”

Appointed by the Swain County Board of Commissioners, Pattillo has spent the majority of his career in education. He was an educator and coach, primarily in Swain County Schools, from 1984-2001. From 2001-17, he served as an administrator in Swain County Schools – including a tenure as Superintendent from 2013-17.

Pattillo and his wife Norma have two sons, a daughter and two grandsons.

“I am honored to be part of such an incredible school,” Pattillo said. “SCC has a wide offering of courses and is student-center. SCC provides extensive collaboration with other area schools, including local high schools. SCC also supports Heritage Arts and many community programs.”

Debnam originally joined Southwestern’s board in 2023 and was appointed by the Jackson County Board of Commissioners. He and his wife, Gail, own and operate a real estate business as well as the Enloe House Wine Bar in Dillsboro.

He previously served as chair of the Jackson County Board of Commissioners from 2010-14 and also was on the NC Board of Transportation from 2016-21. He’s a past hair of the Jackson County Chamber of Commerce and was a founding board member for AWAKE Children’s Advocacy Center and served on that board for 25 years.

The Debnams have two children and five grandchildren.

For more information about Southwestern and the programs it offers, visit www.SouthwesternCC.edu, call 828.339.4000 or drop by your nearest SCC location.

One of the most loyal and longest-running supporters Southwestern Community College students has had over the years is Pepsi-Cola Bottling of Whittier. Recently, Pepsi Area Manager Thomas Hibbs stopped by SCC’s Jackson Campus to make a donation of $6,000 to the SCC Foundation.

The gift serves dual purposes as $5,000 allows Pepsi to become a Diamond-level sponsor for the 12th annual Boots, Blue Jeans & Bling Gala, which will be held on Sept. 26 at Harrah’s Cherokee Casino Resort. All proceeds from that event support SCC student scholarships.

The remaining $1,000 of this donation was made to the Student Emergency Fund, which helps students experiencing an unexpected financial crisis.

To learn more about the gala or to secure your tickets or a table sponsorship, visit https://www.southwesterncc.edu/gala/.

By Addison Bevlin, SCC Public Relations Intern

A million dollars has been raised over the past 11 years of Southwestern Community College’s annual scholarship gala. 

This gala allows students the opportunity to be freed from financial burden due to the kindness of sponsors and donors.

“Each year the community steps forward and amazes us with their generosity. Southwestern is forever grateful to these brilliant people who help our students thrive,” said Wendy LeMay, Gala co-Chair. “We are excited to see how this year will help us support our students.”

The gala will return for the 12th time on Sept. 26 at Harrah’s Cherokee Casino Resort with the theme Boots, Blue Jeans and Bling.

The gala will be held in the event center with opening music by Michael Collings & Duncan LeMay and headlining music from DJ Faze from Sound Extreme Entertainment. Guests will also be treated to a meal handcrafted by the chefs at Harrah’s.

This year’s gala also includes a silent auction, wine pull and photo booths.

Individual tickets cost $200, and table prices range from $2,000-$5,000. Contributing sponsorship opportunities are also available.

The Boots, Blue Jeans and Bling gala is vital in supporting scholarships for Southwestern Community College students.

“Join your neighbors for an exciting evening of food, fellowship and fun,” said Evan Hatch, Foundation Executive Director, “Your involvement in this event will make a lifelong impact on our students.”

For more information or to buy tickets or a sponsorship, visit www.SouthwesternCC.edu/gala or contact Evan Hatch at 828.339.4241 or e_hatch@SouthwesternCC.edu.

Eleven graduates of Southwestern Community College’s Nurse Aide program were honored during a pinning ceremony on June 16 on SCC’s Jackson Campus.

Kaitlyn Rodriguez of Glenville, Jodi Gravitt of Waynesville, Jessica Bryson of Sylva, Dayami Cruz of Franklin, Hope Ward of Cashiers, Ashton “Grace” Shook of Franklin, Autumn Colton of Sylva, Madison Coffey of Waynesville, Serina Penland of Hayesville, Jessica Van Assche of Sylva and Adrianna Garcia of Franklin are eligible to work under the supervision of licensed nursing professionals in performing nursing care and services for persons of all ages – though Nurse Aides primarily provide care for the elderly.

For more information about SCC’s Nurse Aide program or to enroll for future classes, contact program coordinator Michele Kussow at m_kussow@SouthwesternCC.edu.

Student debt, a shortage of qualified healthcare workers and job instability are all very real problems in the regional economy these days.

A new partnership in the Western counties of North Carolina aims to address all these issues.

Designed to reduce financial barriers for students, the Health Science Scholars Program is also building a sustainable healthcare workforce pipeline throughout the region. 

Southwestern Community College students who sign up as Health Science Scholars will receive last-dollar tuition assistance as well as guaranteed employment upon graduation. Meanwhile, employers will be able to fill much-needed positions in the 17 career fields for which SCC provides education and training.

More than a dozen students officially signed commitment letters to join the Health Science Scholars program during a “Signing Day” event Monday evening at SCC’s Jackson Campus in Sylva.

“This program is about breaking down financial barriers for students who are passionate about entering the healthcare field,” said Dr. Timothy Dean, Dean of Health Sciences at SCC. “At the same time, we are getting students connected to employers much earlier in their educational journeys, which strengthens both their experience and their career outcomes.”

Interest in the program has exceeded expectations. SCC hosted its inaugural Health Science Scholars Interview Day on May 4, where 31 students from multiple health science programs interviewed with four regional employers: Cherokee Indian Hospital Authority, Harris Regional Hospital, Angel Medical Center, and Sylva Valley Health and Rehab.

“A strong local workforce depends on outstanding local educators,” said William (Ashley) Hindman, Chief Executive Officer for Harris Regional and Swain Community Hospitals. “Hospitals and colleges like SCC are connected in a very practical and powerful way. We function as parts of a whole. One side is caring for patients today, while the other is preparing the professionals who will care for patients tomorrow. Neither can fully succeed without the other. That is why the partnership between our hospitals and SCC is so important to us.”

Designed with flexibility and growth in mind, the Health Science Scholars Program is open to additional healthcare organizations that wish to participate. Each partner determines its own level of support and participation model. Options may include covering full tuition in exchange for a post-graduation work commitment, providing partial financial assistance or hiring students during their education with tuition reimbursement and flexible work expectations.

Beyond initial selection, SCC is committed to keeping students actively engaged with their sponsoring employers throughout their educational experience. Planned engagement opportunities include a fall employer picnic, volunteer activities within partner organizations, regular semester updates shared with employers and ongoing communication to strengthen professional relationships. These touchpoints are designed to ensure students remain connected, supported and workforce-ready from enrollment through graduation. 

For more information about the Health Science Scholars Program or to inquire about becoming a participating employer, please contact Dr. Dean at t_dean@SouthwesternCC.edu.

By: Addison Bevlin

More than 300 graduates earned their associate degrees, diplomas and/or certificates from Southwestern Community College in the Spring Semester.

Among the Graduates, 55 received Cum Laude honors (3.50-3.89 GPA), 50 received Magna Cum Laude honors (3.70-3.89 GPA), 55 received Summa Cum Laude honors (3.90-4.00 GPA).

The following list includes each graduate’s field of study and type of academic credential earned.

Buncombe County

Asheville: Courtney Danielle Banks, Associate in Applied Science, Occupational Therapy Assistant

Arden: Jeremy B. Woods, Associate in Applied Science, Radiography, Cum Laude

Candler: Lindsey Olivia Harmon, Associate in Applied Science, Nursing

Fairview: Kimberly Buff Dilon, Associate in Applied Science, Magna Cum Laude; and Kristy Rose Watson, Associate in Applied Science, Respiratory Therapy, Summa Cum Laude

Caldwell County

Hudson: Macie Erin Gentry, Associate in Applied Science, Medical Sonography, Summa Cum Laude

Cherokee County

Andrews: Sharain Marche Colbert, Associate in Applied Science, Nursing

Murphy: Spring Chelsea Blythe Rathbone, Certificate, Health Information Technology, Medical Coding; John Daniel Garrett, Associate in Applied Science, Respiratory Therapy, Summa Cum Laude; Kristi Denise Henderson, Associate in Applied Science, Nursing, RIBN, Summa Cum Laude; and Allison Makenna Wells, Associate in Applied Science, Physical Therapist Assistant, Magna Cum Laude

Topton: Susan Rachelle Clark, Certificate in Accounting and Finance, Payroll Accounting, Tax Accounting

Clay County

Hayesville: Timothy Douglas Davenport, Associate in Applied Science, Physical Therapist Assistant; and Emily Brook Stewart, Associate in Applied Science, Nursing, RIBN

Warne: Janie Ledford Graper, Certificate in Health Information Technology, Medical Coding

Cumberland County

Fayetteville: Janderin Leigh Clark, Certificate in Health Information Technology, Medical Coding

Davie County 

Mocksville: Victoria Renee Burton, Associate in Applied Science, Medical Sonography

Durham County

Chapel Hill: Zachary Zionts, Associate in Arts

Graham County

Robbinsville: Ally Reece Ayers, Associate in Applied Science, Nursing, RIBN; Emma Grace Beasley, Associate in Applied Science, Medical Sonography, Cum Laude; Brooke J. Colvin, Associate in Applied Science, Health Information Technology, Certificate in Health Information Technology, Health Informatics, Medical Coding; Kadance Ryleigh Farley, Certificate in Cosmetology; Rachel Dockery Gilbert, Associate in Applied Science, Radiography, Cum Laude; Alexis Charlene Hodock, Diploma in Applied Science, Magna Cum Laude, Certificate in Accounting and Finance, Payroll Accounting, Tax Accounting; Brinley L. Holder, Associate in Applied Science, Occupational Therapy Assistant, Magna Cum Laude; Ragan Layne Holder, Associate in Applied Science, Cosmetology, Summa Cum Laude; Karlee Janice Stewart, Associate in Applied Science, Radiography, Magna Cum Laude; Halley Jenkins Williams, Certificate in Health Information Technology, Medical Coding; and Hunter Alexander Williamson, Certificate in Carpentry, CCP

Haywood County

Canton: Destiny L. Carpenter, Associate in Applied Science, Cyber Crime Technology, Cum Laude, Certificate in Cyber Crime Technology, Cloud Computing, Data Recovery, Law, Network Vulnerabilities; Jesse Mclver Dall, Associate in Science, JCEC; Avery Ponder, Certificate in Medical Assisting

Clyde: Geilsha Diaz Collazo, Associate in Applied Science, Health Information Technology, Certificate in Health Information Technology, Medical Coding; Ali Klaire Nicholson, Certificate in Business Administration, CCP; and Walker Andrew Robinson, Associate in Applied Science, Business Administration

Maggie Valley: Hannah Rose Shepherd, Associate in Applied Science, Respiratory Therapy

Waynesville: Carolina Pamela Evans, Associate in Applied Science, Nursing, RIBN; Conner Riley Evans, Associate in Applied Science, Emergency Medical Science; Shaughn Patrick Harrington, Associate in Applied Science, Health Information Technology, Summa Cum Laude, Certificate in Health Information Technology; Amber Dawn Ingle, Associate in Applied Science, Cyber Crime Technology, Magna Cum Laude, Certificate in Cyber Crime Technology, Cloud Computing, Data Recovery, Law, Network Vulnerabilities; Jessica Lauren Jaynes, Associate in Applied Science, Health Information Technology, Summa Cum Laude, Certificate in Health Technology, Health Informatics; Brittani Catrina Mills, Certificate in Early Childhood- Infant/Toddler Care; and Elizabeth Anne Reome, Associate in Applied Science, Medical Sonography, Cum Laude

Henderson County

Flat Rock: Emily Branch, Certificate in Health Information Technology, Health Informatics

Fletcher: Tyrus Knox, Associate in Applied Science, Respiratory Therapy

Hendersonville: Kalyn Kelly, Associate in Applied Science, Respiratory Therapy, Summa Cum Laude; and Clay Thomas Vinson, Associate in Applied Science, Respiratory Therapy, Magna Cum Laude

Jackson County

Balsam: Cristian Miguel Diaz-Knight, Associate in Science, Summa Cum Laude

Cashiers: Pollyanna Marie Ballentine, Associate in Applied Science, Medical Sonography, Magna Cum Laude; Carmen Marie Dalton, Associate in Applied Science, Accounting and Finance, Magna Cum Laude, Certificate in Accounting and Finance, Payroll Accounting, Tax Accounting; Kevin Osiel Ortiz, Diploma in Automotive Systems Technology; Madeline Elizabeth Potts, Associate in Arts; and Hope Lillian Ward, Associate in Arts, BREC

Cullowhee: Luke Newton Ammons, Associate in Applied Science, Welding Technology, Magna Cum Laude, Certificate in Criminal Justice Technology; Maclean Alexander Bridges, Associate in Arts; Tyleigh Alyssa Buchanan, Certificate in Health Information Technology, Medical Coding; Tiara Hope Douthit, Associate in Arts; Marcos Gallegos-Aguilar, Associate in Applied Science, Automotive Systems Technology, Certificate in Automotive Systems Technology, Advanced, Basic; Leland Anthony Graves, Certificate in Welding Technology, CCP; Jimmi Delaine King, Diploma in Cosmetology, Magna Cum Laude; Monica Hernandez Kinsey, Certificate in Cosmetology; Kayla Louise Koonts, Associate in Applied Science, Respiratory Therapy; Jada Gabrielle Marsic, Associate in Arts, Summa Cum Laude; Rebekah Jean Massingale, Associate in Applied Science, Medical Assisting; Madai McNeely, Diploma in Cosmetology, Cum Laude; Demario Lawuan Miller, Associate in Applied Science, Welding Technology, Cum Laude; Katelyn Grace Chavez, Associate in Applied Science, Business Administration, Certificate in Business Administration; Melody Evia Myers, Associate in Fine Arts, Visual Arts, Magna Cum Laude; Ruth Sarai Dismari Osorio, Associate in Arts, JCEC, Cum Laude; Jacquelyn Arrieta Ramirez, Associate in Arts, JCEC, Summa Cum Laude; Harley Addison Stevens, Associate in Science, JCEC, Summa Cum Laude; Findley Harris Jacoby Stonehouse, Associate in Arts, JCEC; Luke Robert Sullivan, Associate in Applied Science, Radiography, Magna Cum Laude; Ramiro Hazael Velazquez Cambron, Certificate in Welding Technology, JCEC; McKenzie Jean Woods, Associate in Arts, BREC; and Barrett Catherine Yanik, Associate in Arts, JCEC, Cum Laude

Dillsboro: Zackary Ryan Torres, Associate in Applied Science, Cyber Crime Technology, Certificate in Cyber Crime Technology, Cloud Computing, Data Recovery, Law, Network Vulnerabilities

Sylva: Zayne Adam, Associate in Arts, JCEC, Magna Cum Laude; Ian Thomas Alexand Beck, Associate in Arts, JCEC; Laurie Coates Beegle, Associate in Applied Science, Medical Assisting, Summa Cum Laude; Lana Mary Buchanan, Associate in Applied Science, Nursing; April Lee Burch, Certificate in Health Information Technology, Medical Coding; Colton C. Camerote, Associate in Arts, JCEC, Cum Laude; Bailey Alyse Cloer, Associate in Applied Science, Nursing; Stacey Irene Coggins, Associate in Applied Science, Early Childhood Education – Traditional; Olivia Helen Collings, Certificate in Graphic Design; Maya Elise Denmon, Associate in Arts, JCEC, Cum Laude; Caleb James Faulkner, Associate in Science, Summa Cum Laude; Darlene Fortner, Associate in Fine Arts, Visual Arts, Magna Cum Laude; Alexis Taylor Giles, Associate in Applied Science, Radiography, Cum Laude; Erica Nicole Green, Associate in Applied Science, Office Management, Cum Laude, Certificate in Business Administration, Technology; Felica Franklin Hall, Associate in Applied Science, Nursing; Natalie Deann Hall, Associate in Arts, Summa Cum Laude; Fred Hannah, Associate in Applied Science, Nursing; Hunter Braydon Hyde, Associate in Science, JCEC, Cum Laude; Lilia Mackenzie Jarvis, Associate in Arts, JCEC, Magna Cum Laude; Dominick Ray Jones, Associate in Applied Science, Radiography; Tyee Ashwin Jones, Associate in Arts, JCEC; Isaiah Lee Ledford, Certificate in Business Administration, CCP; Annie Rose Lewis, Associate in Arts, Summa Cum Laude; Megan Laylynn Lillard, Associate in Applied Science, Radiography, Cum Laude; Austin Nicklaus Lucas, Associate in Arts, Summa Cum Laude; Sarah Renee Martinez, Certificate in Early Childhood Education, CCP; Jessica Amy McCall, Certificate in Early Childhood Education, Certificate in Early Childhood Preschool; Adrienne Elizabeth McCoy, Certificate in Business Administration, CCP; Joshua Ethan McGaha, Associate in Arts, Magna Cum Laude; Judah G. Morrow, Associate in Arts, JCEC; Rieley Marie Nichols, Associate in Applied Science, Human Services Technology Addiction and Recovery Studies, Magna Cum Laude; Natalia F. Nieckarz, Associate in Arts, JCEC; Madalynn Maria Price, Certificate in Health Information Technology, Medical Coding; Sarina Rose Roessler, Associate in Applied Science, Nursing, Cum Laude; Isabella Louise Rudd, Associate in Arts, Teacher Preparation; Allie Claire Russotti, Associate in Science, Cum Laude; Caleb Conrad Sayre, Associate in Applied Science, Nursing; Melissa Ann Shuler, Associate in Applied Science, Medical Office Administration, Summa Cum Laude, Associate in Applied Science, Office Management, Summa Cum Laude; Madeline Faith Sink, Associate in Applied Science Nursing, RIBN; Tucker Dubbert Sparks, Associate in Arts, JCEC, Cum Laude;  Connor Adam Sumner, Certificate in Welding Technology, CCP; Sawyer Thomas Sumner, Certificate in Welding Technology, CCP; Tori Jane Sutton, Associate in Arts, JCEC; Kathryn Ann Talbert, Associate in Arts; Ryan Eric Trubicza, Associate in Applied Science, Automotive Systems Technology, Cum Laude, Certificate in Automotive Systems Technology, Advanced, Basic; and Jacob Ray Woodard, Associate in Arts

Tuckasegee: Ricky June Stafford, Associate in Science

Webster: Lucia Ann Romero, Associate in Science, JCEC

Whittier: Elijah Hunter Bishop, Associate in Science, JCEC, Cum Laude; Natalie Jade Carpenter, Associate in Arts; Bella Lucia Dupree, Associate in Arts; Piper Ronan Faust, Associate in Arts, JCEC, Cum Laude; Otilia Flores, Certificate in Office Management; Brennen RayAllen Foerst, Associate in Arts; David Keat, Associate in Science, JCEC, Summa Cum Laude; Emily Grace Long, Associate in Applied Science, Physical Therapy Assistant, Magna Cum Laude; Heather Nicole McDonald, Associate in Applied Science, Nursing, RIBN; Joshua Thomas Mitchell, Certificate in Business Administration; Brianna Amanda Powers, Associate in Applied Science, Social and Human Services, Magna Cum Laude; Devona Ashlie Reed, Associate in Arts; James Ray Roland, Associate in Applied Science, Business Administration, Magna Cum Laude; Cheyenne Cay Pete, Associate in Applied Science, Information Technology, Summa Cum Laude, Diploma in Information Technology, Business, Summa Cum Laude, Diploma in Information Technology, Operating Systems, Summa Cum Laude, Diploma in Information Technology, Programming, Summa Cum Laude, Diploma in Information Technology, Support, Summa Cum Laude; Jennifer Marie Smith, Associate in Applied Science, Nursing, RIBN; Cody Lynn Maney Williams, Certificate in Welding Technology; Shealyne Hayes Young, Certificate in Medical Office Administration, Patient Services; and Alondra Zavala, Associate in Applied Science, Business Administration – Entrepreneurship, Magna Cum Laude

Macon County

Franklin: Daylon Grant Amaya, Certificate in Welding Technology, CCP; Ocean Elisabeth Anderson, Associate in Arts, Teacher Preparation; Selah Brynn Anderson, Associate in Arts, MEC, Magna Cum Laude; Lauryn Elizabeth Bell, Associate in Arts, Summa Cum Laude; Darrell Justin Brooks, Associate in Applied Science, Criminal Justice Technology, Magna Cum Laude; Akhir Brown, Associate in Arts, MEC; Hailey Ann Brown Associate in Arts, MEC, Certificate in Criminal Justice Technology; Avalon Satong Camelo, Associate in Applied Science, Business Administration – Entrepreneurship; Cory Adian Carver, Associate in Applied Science, Business Administration – Entrepreneurship; Bryant Diaz Ruiz, Certificate in Automotive Systems Technology, CCP; Yuriana Elizabeth Diaz-Acevedo, Associate in Arts, Teacher Preparation, Magna Cum Laude; Stephanie Rene DuChemin, Certificate in Accounting and Finance, Tax Accounting, Payroll Accounting; Eleanor Amy Duffell, Associate in Applied Science, Physical Therapist Assistant, Cum Laude; Braylen Charles Dulicai, Certificate in Welding Technology, CCP; Judson Wyatt Duvall, Associate in Science, MEC, Magna Cum Laude; Ivan Eldreth, Certificate in Welding Technology, CCP; Jasmine Marie Escobar, Certificate in Accounting and Finance, Payroll Accounting; Dylan Jose Espinoza Monzon, Certificate in Welding Technology, CCP; Gabriella Cheyenne Evans, Certificate in Automotive Systems Technology, CCP; Christopher Luis Corfey Foradada, Associate in Applied Science, Nursing; Kelsey Faye Foree, Associate in Applied Science, Nursing, RIBN, Magna Cum Laude; Alexander Rupert Germain, Associate in Arts, MEC; Kelton Michael Gibbs, Associate in Arts, MEC; Christie Nicole Gibson, Certificate in Health Information Technology, Medical Coding; Jonathan Alan Gibson, Associate in Applied Science, Criminal Justice Technology, Cum Laude; Trisha A. Giles, Diploma in Medical Office Administration; Cameron James Glasgow, Associate in Applied Science, Information Technology – Network Management; Carisa T. Grant, Associate in Applied Science, Early Childhood Education – Traditional, Cum Laude, Certificate in Early Childhood – Infant/Toddler Care, Certificate in Early ChildhoodAdministration, Certificate in Early Childhood Education, Certificate in Early Childhood Preschool; Rebecca Lynn Haas, Certificate in Health Information Technology, Medical Coding; Joseph David Hammaker, Associate in Science, MEC, Summa Cum Laude; Elizabeth Nicole Hedden, Certificate in Accounting and Finance, Payroll Accounting, Tax Accounting; Bethany Irene Helewski, Associate in Applied Science, Medical Sonography, Cum Laude; Noah Jerry Henderson, Certificate in Welding Technology; Kaylee Ann Henry, Associate in Applied Science, Radiography; Jessica Hernandez Associate in Arts, Magna Cum Laude, Certificate in Criminal Justice Technology; Felipe Hernandez-Gonzalez, Associate in Applied Science, Automotive Systems Technology, Cum Laude, Certificate in Automotive Systems Technology, Advanced, Basic; Brendan Adolph Herrera, Associate in Arts, Certificate in Business Administration; Angelika Brooke Hodgin, Diploma in Cosmetology; Katelyn Elizabeth Holbrooks, Associate in Applied Science, Cyber Crime Technology, Summa Cum Laude; Laura Elizabeth Holland, Associate in Fine Arts, Visual Arts, Summa Cum Laude; Lydia Marie Holland, Associate in Applied Science, Social and Human Services, Social Services, Summa Cum Laude; Alexander Charles Hopkins, Certificate in Health Information Technology, Health Informatics; James Robert Hubbs, Associate in Arts, MEC; Jessica Leigh Jones, Associate in Applied Science, Nursing, Magna Cum Laude; Adriana Kaylynn Jaurez, Certificate in Culinary Arts; Christa Rachelle Jaurez, Certificate in Culinary Arts; Beth Ann Kimsey, Certificate in Health Information Technology, Medical Coding; Talley Jean Kinsland, Associate in Applied Science, Radiography, Cum Laude; Hunter Okland Kroger, Associate in Arts; Yuritza Lopez Santos, Associate in Arts, Teacher Preparation, Diploma in Business Administration; Ayden James Maisa, Certificate in Welding Technology, CCP; Kaden Thomas Marr, Associate in Arts, MEC, Summa Cum Laude, Certificate in Criminal Justice Technology; Nathaniel Allen Mathis, Associate in Arts; Paytin Leigh Maxwell, Associate in Science, MEC, Summa Cum Laude, Certificate in Business Administration; Katie Anne Meador, Associate in Arts, MEC; Yaasmin Mendoza Zendejas, Associate in Arts, MEC, Certificate in Opticianry – Contact Lens; Brooke MacKenzie Merritt, Associate in Arts, MEC; Kassidy Marie Mixer, Associate in Applied Science, Nursing, RIBN; Anthony Eric Montanez, Certificate in Carpentry, CCP; Ayla Elizabeth Moore, Associate in Science, Summa Cum Laude; Jackson Emmanueli Moore, Associate in Science, Summa Cum Laude; Carlito Muniz, Certificate in Carpentry, CCP; Lauren Brooke Norton, Associate in Applied Science, Occupational Therapy Assistant, Cum Laude; Frances Marie Ortiz Figueroa, Associate in Arts; Michelle Perez, Associate in Applied Science, Medical Sonography, Cum Laude; Sophia Lynn Pilkerton, Associate in Arts, MEC, Certificate in Criminal Justice Technology; Daniel Tobin Pope, Associate in Arts, MEC, Summa Cum Laude, Certificate in Automotive Systems Technology, Basic; Lily Beth Powell, Associate in Arts, MEC, Certificate in Emergency Medical Science; Elizabeth Grace Puckett, Associate in Applied Science, Automotice Systems Technology, Associate in Applied Science, Welding Technology, Cum Laude, Certificate in Automotive Systems Technology, Advanced; Elisabeth Ramos Soriano, Associate in Arts, MEC, Summa Cum Laude, Diploma in Business Administration, Summa Cum Laude; Naysha E. Ramsay, Associate in Arts, Summa Cum Laude; Cameron Elise Ramsey, Associate in Arts, MEC, Summa Cum Laude; Christian Alexander Ray, Associate in Arts, Summa Cum Laude; Alyse Marie Remery, Associate in Arts, MEC, Cum Laude; Eduardo Jesus Rios-Ordaz, Certificate in Welding Technology, CCP; Dayse Rivera Villa, Associate in Applied Science, Business Administration – Entrepreneurship, Cum Laude; Claudia Marie Rodriguez Ortega, Associate in Applied Science, Nursing; Bridgette Nicole Roman, Associate in Applied Science, Respiratory Therapy, Cum Laude; Nicholas David Roper, Welding Technology, CCP; Candice Nichole Ryan, Associate in Applied Science, Early Childhood Education – Traditional, Magna Cum Laude, Certificate in Early Childhood Education; Natasha Rae Savage, Certificate in Heath Information Technology, Medical Coding; Krystin Danyelle Sherrill, Certificate in Health Information Technology, Health Informatics; Jessica L. Sobotka, Associate in Applied Science, Radiography, Cum Laude; Rhealee Benane Stanfield, Certificate in Health Information Technology, Medical Coding; Jacob Grady Stockton, Certificate in Carpentry, CCP; Chase Tiller, Certificate in Welding Technology, CCP; Brisedia Sheril Tlahuice Flores, Associate in Arts, Teacher Preparation; Laura Cain Tussey, Certificate in Medical Office Administration; Sawyer Gavin Isaac Tweed, Associate in Applied Science, Automotive Systems Technology; Joshua Robert Vernelson, Associate in Arts; Mace Waldroop, Certificate in Welding Technology, CCP; Kaira Rose Watford, Diploma in Cosmetology, Cum Laude; Bianca Lauren Watters, Associate in Arts, MEC, Summa Cum Laude, Certificate in Criminal Justice Technology; Jasmine Laynea Welch, Certificate in Carpentry, CCP; James Robert Williamson, Certificate in Carpentry, CCP; and Noah Aiden Windle, Associate in Arts, MEC

Highlands: Nicholas Ryan Tucci-Caselli, Associate in Applied Science, Automotive Systems Technology, Certificate in Automotive Systems Technology, Advanced, Basic

Otto: Caroline Elisabeth Collins, Associate in Science, Magna Cum Laude; Katherine Elizabeth Conner, Associate in Applied Science, Summa Cum Laude; Maximo Gabriel Hernandez Soriano, Associate in Applied Science, Automotive Systems Technology; Jaclyn Mae Mathis, Certificate in Accounting and Finance, Payroll Accounting, Tax Accounting, Certificate in Business Administration; Adrianna Faith Neal, Associate in Arts, Cum Laude; Jasper Lee Ramey, Associate in Applied Science, Criminal Justice Technology; Fernando Soriano, Certificate in Welding Technology, CCP; and Christian Vasquez-Cruz, Certificate in Welding Technology, CCP

Scaly Mountain: Kassie Vinson Bradley, Associate in Applied Science, Early Childhood Education – BK Licensure Transfer, Magna Cum Laude

Mecklenburg County

Charlotte: Ellie R. Brown, Associate in Applied Science, Physical Therapist Assistant, Summa Cum Laude

Pitt County

Winterville: Emma Bridie Dao, Associate in Applied Science, Medical Sonography, Magna Cum Laude

Polk County 

Columbus: Susan Elizabeth Christian, Associate in Applied Science, Office Management, Magna Cum Laude, Certificate in Medical Office Administration, Patient Services, Certificate in Office Management, Customer Service

Surry County

Pinnacle: Christina Marie Seawell, Associate in Applied Science, Medical Sonography, Magna Cum Laude

Pilot Mountain: Aidan Phillips-Wood, Associate in Applied Science, Welding Technology

Swain County 

Almond: Abigail Linee Braxton, Associate in Arts, Cum Laude

Bryson City: Jacob M. Bird, Associate in Arts, JCEC; Rebecca L. Blank, Associate in Arts, Cum Laude; Autumn Kyndall Cochran, Associate in Arts; Colton McKinley Cunningham, Certificate in Cosmetology; Lindsay Nicole Currence, Certificate in Medical Coding; David Garbriel Dingle, Certificate in Carpentry, CCP; Stacy Elizabeth Edwards, Associate in Arts; Matthew Joseph Evans, Certificate in Carpentry, CCP; Conner Lee Green, Certificate in Carpentry, CCP; Katelyn Jean Kent, Certificate in Early Childhood Education, CCP; Alana Carson King, Associate in Applied Science, Medical Sonography, Cum Laude; Terry Lynn Losey, Associate in Applied Science, Early Childhood Education – Traditional; Rider Jerome Mattox, Associate in Applied Science, Information Technology, Diploma in Information Technology – Business, Diploma in Information Technology – Operating Systems, Diploma in Information Technology – Support; Nicholas McCullough, Associate in Applied Science, Emergency Medical Science, Cum Laude; Lauren Mae Monnat, Associate in Arts, JCEC; Carissa Jordan Murphy, Associate in Applied Science, Nursing; Rylee Anna Rawls, Certificate in Medical Assisting, CCP; Noah James Shuler, Certificate in Carpentry, CCP; Christian Tench Simmons, Associate in Science, JCEC, Summa Cum Laude; Kayla Grace Stephens, Associate in Applied Science, Cosmetology; Emma Lee Stephenson, Certificate in Cosmetology; Summer Jazzmn Stepp, Associate in Applied Science, Early Childhood Education – Traditional; Andrew Connor White, Associate in Applied Science, Information Technology, Magna Cum Laude; Kali Glenn Wiggins, Associate in Applied Science, Emergency Medical Science; Jamie Marie Winchester, Certificate in Medical Office Administration, Patient Services; Cory Vincent Wolf, Associate in Science; Hope Lindsey-Ann Woodard, Certificate in Medical Assisting, CCP; Jamie Nicole Woody, Associate in Arts; and Abigayl Ann Zollinger, Associate in Applied Science, Nursing

Cherokee: Mahala Renee Allison, Associate in Applied Science, Medical Assisting; Ashlea Marie Plummer, Associate in Arts; Chesdia Adell Burns, Certificate in Medical Office Administration; Kaila Nikelle Cucumber, Associate in Applied Science, Business Administration, Summa Cum Laude, Associate in Applied Science, Business Administration – Entrepreneurship, Summa Cum Laude; Vanessa J. Grant, Associate in Arts, Cum Laude; Siri Shantelle Hicks, Associate in Applied Science, Early Childhood Education – BK Licensure Transfer, Cum Laude; Diego Izaguirre, Certificate in Carpentry, CCP; Nina Marie Junaluska, Associate in Applied Science, Medical Office Administration; Nancey Wahnetah Locust, Associate in Applied Science, Office Management, Summa Cum Laude; Jaelyn Mae Lossiah, Associate in Applied Science, Early Childhood Education – BK Licensure Transfer, Associate in Applied Science, Early Childhood Education – Traditional; Natasha Ryan Maney, Associate in Applied Science, Office Management; Toby Keith McCoy, Associate in Arts; Alexis JodyAnn Motola, Associate in Arts, JCEC; Kelly Nicole Murphy, Associate in Applied Science, Early Childhood Education – Traditional; Alexias J. Reed, Certificate in Office Management, Office Finance; Twila Jayln Reed, Diploma in Early Childhood Education; Steffani Sanchez, Associate in Arts, JCEC; Alexandria Korenkiewicz Sanders, Diploma in Cyber Crime Technology, Magna Cum Laude, Certificate in Cyber Crime Technology, Law, Network Vulnerabilities, Certificate in Health Information Technology, Medical Coding; Sammi Lyn Sequoyah, Associate in Applied Science, Social and Human Services; Erin Desert Wind Shuler, Certificate in Health Information Technology, Health Informatics, Medical Coding; Joshua Jack Smith, Associate in Arts; Isreal Judea Stinnett, Associate in Applied Science, Occupational Therapy Assistant; and Brandi Eve Taylor, Associate in Cyber Crime Technology, Summa Cum Laude, Certificate in Cyber Crime Technology, Cloud Computing, Data Recovery, Law, Network Vulnerabilities

Union County

Monroe: Holly Ann Tucker, Associate in Arts

Georgia

Dillard: Miranda Adrianne McRary, Associate in Applied Science, Health Information Technology, Certificate in Health Information Technology, Health Informatics

Tiger: Kaitlin B. Coleman, Associate in Applied Science, Occupational Therapy Assistant, Summa Cum Laude

Watkinsville: Grayson Reed Yount, Associate in Applied Science, Emergency Medical Science, Cum Laude

Other Graduates

Grantham Cole Hansen, Associate in Arts

Jack Moore graduated from Southwestern Community College in May with several achievements already under his belt.

In March he placed second at the student talent show playing the piano. Throughout the semester, his honors project involved making a hiking map outlining trails within a 20-minute drive of Franklin, allowing him to become an honors program graduate while receiving his Associate in Science degree Summa Cum Laude.

Upon graduating from SCC, he received the Henry & Jo Durham Sigma Chi Transfer Scholarship. The $500 award, managed by the Sigma Chi Foundation, is given annually to a male SCC student graduating with high academic achievement and transferring to Western Carolina University in the following semester.

Starting WCU this fall, Moore plans on majoring in Computer Information Systems with the goal of starting his own business.

To learn more about the scholarship, contact Dr. Mark Ellison at m_ellison@SouthwesternCC.edu or 828.339.4229.