Helms College proudly announces the successful conclusion of graduation ceremonies honoring the outstanding achievements of its summer graduates. The event marked a momentous milestone in the lives of 70 students who received their well-deserved degrees, which included seven military and veteran graduates, eight National Technical Honor Society graduates, future healthcare heroes and culinary creators, as well as many first-generation college graduates.
Our Augusta campus kicked off the celebrations on July 29, 2023, as family, friends, faculty, and staff gathered to honor the achievements of our graduating students. The air was filled with joy and excitement, reflecting the collective spirit of accomplishment and the anticipation of future successes.
Dina White, the class valedictorian, shared her inspiring story of how she pursued her passion for culinary arts with the support of her family, professors, and faith in God. She encouraged her fellow graduates to believe in themselves and chase their dreams.
Chef Duane Keller, Director of Food and Beverage at Savannah Lakes Village in South Carolina, provided the commencement address, sharing his journey, from his humble beginnings to becoming a highly respected chef in both the United States and Canada. He spoke of overcoming challenges, the benefits of hard work, and his professional moments of triumph that made it all worth it. He urged graduates to craft memorable experiences wherever their paths may lead them, and to always strive for excellence in everything they do.
The celebratory atmosphere continued at our Macon campus, on August 1, 2023, just a few days after the Augusta celebration. The graduation ceremony at Macon mirrored the energy and pride of the previous celebration, serving as another inspiring testament to the dedication and effort of Helms College students.
Robert Reaves, the valedictorian of Macon campus class, shared his testimony about how his Helms' experience provided him with the confidence and skills needed to pursue his dream. As a graduate of the heating, ventilation, air conditioning, and refrigeration (HVACR) program, Robert expressed his gratitude towards his instructors and mentors for their unwavering belief in him and for motivating him to reach his full potential.
Dr. Stephen Schultheis, Vice President for Enrollment Management at Middle Georgia State University, delivered an insightful address that challenged graduates to use their passion and refine their skills in the service of others.
Achieving Academic Excellence
Of particular significance is the outstanding academic performance of the graduating class. An impressive 51% of the graduates earned a GPA of 3.5 or above during their time at Helms College. This serves as a testament to their dedication, hard work, and the exceptional education provided by the college.
Pathways to Employment
Furthermore, most of the graduating class has already secured employment opportunities, showcasing the value of a Helms College education in preparing students for the workforce. The college's industry-driven curriculum and emphasis on experiential learning have undoubtedly contributed to the graduates' success in finding employment in their chose fields.
Congratulations to all the graduates from Helms College's Augusta and Macon campuses. Your dedication, hard work, and excellence are commendable. We are proud to be a part of your journey and wish you continued success in all your future endeavors.
Media Contact:
Karen Lee Davis, Senior Director of Marketing and PR
803.270.5148 |
kdavis@helms.edu