2024 Graduation

HCC Celebrates the Class of 2024

(Clyde, NC) - Haywood Community College recently welcomed families and friends to campus to celebrate the 2024 graduating class across four ceremonies. Each ceremony featured a speech prepared by a fellow student that provided peer-to-peer encouragement to their classmates. Casty Eller, Associate in Nursing graduate and Academic Excellence Award winner, Brandy Haigler, High School Equivalency graduate, and Gabriella Marquez, Associate in Arts graduate, SGA President, and first-generation student each shared how their experience at HCC has impacted them and the futures they are looking forward to in their next career or educational steps.

Ceremonies included recognition of graduates in Arts, Sciences, and Natural Resources; Nursing; Health, Human, and Business Services, Professional Crafts; Industry; Career & College Readiness; and Haywood Early College. Approximately 390 credentials were conferred this academic year to 349 students, including degrees, diplomas, and certificates. More than one credential can be obtained when students earn multiple degrees or certificates specializing in a particular focus area. 

“Our 2024 graduates have shown remarkable dedication and perseverance, and their success reflects the strength and potential within our community. We are incredibly proud of them and excited for what the future holds,” said Dr. Shelley White, President of HCC.

One of the ceremonies recognized over 35 graduates in HCC’s College & Career Readiness Program. This program is designed for people over the age of 16 who want to finish a high school education, learn English, or build skills for entering College or the workplace. Students who complete HCC’s CCR programs walk away with a plan and the confidence to take the next step, and many enroll in HCC’s curriculum programs upon completion to pursue a degree. 

The Haywood Early College ceremony celebrated 39 students who graduated with their high school diploma and many also with their Associate Degree. Lily Seymour shared her insights to the class and the students' incredible bond with each other. During the ceremony, the documentary “This is Possible” was shared. This documentary showcased the amazing opportunity students had this year to visit 14 colleges along the eastern coast, many of them being Ivy League universities. Representatives from EdNC attended the ceremony to showcase the documentary and share a motivational message with the graduating class.

With over 30 curricular programs in 9 different career clusters, students at HCC can pursue a certificate, diploma or associate degree at a fraction of the cost of a four-year school. Students at HCC enjoy small classes and personalized attention, including the support of a Success Coach. HCC offers a variety of courses delivered using an array of methods to fit busy schedules. From in-person to entirely online, the college has what students need to create a flexible schedule for those employed or who may also be balancing a family, making it easy to get the credentials needed to move forward. 

Financial aid options are widely available for all students and with a combination of funding sources, most students can attend HCC at little to no cost. Through the generosity of donors, HCC has a variety of scholarship opportunities and students graduating in 2024 from high schools in Haywood County can obtain funding through HCC’s Tuition Free Guarantee. Completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) is the most important step in determining financial aid. 

Registration is now open for summer and fall semesters. For more information, visit haywood.edu or call 828-627-2821.