SANFORD, N.C. - Approximately 170 people are the most recent graduates of the Central Carolina Community College's Division of Workforce Development Continuing Education Health and Professional Services Programs, which held its graduation on June 1 at the Dennis A. Wicker Civic & Conference Center.

The certificate areas include Cardiovascular Monitor Technician, Introduction to Sonography, Medical Math, Nurse Aide I, Pharmacy Technician, Phlebotomy Technician, and Rehabilitation Technician.

Amerie Ussery, a College and Career Promise (CCP) Nurse Aide I Lee County student, was one of the student speakers. "I certainly can say that taking CCP courses really paved the way for my future. Starting off, I knew I wanted to do something in the medical field but I wasn't quite sure. After taking a couple of classes online through CCP, I knew my heart was set on helping people in the medical field," said Ussery. "All in all, this class was an amazing experience especially because you got to do hands-on learning and go to real world clinical settings. Meeting new people and lifelong friends is another great thing that I found myself having after this class."

Nurse Aide I Chatham County student Jeily Espinal also was a student speaker. "My one thing I hope you will remember is to never give up, and though you have obstacles in your path, with your resilience and dedication you can get through anything," she said. "I want to thank my classmates from the bottom of my heart for encouraging each other to get things done, and always show compassion to everyone you come across, to my instructor for not giving up on me, the coordinator for truly caring about her students and colleagues, and my family for supporting me enough to where I know I can do anything I put my heart and mind to. And believe me -- everything happens for a reason, and you get to choose to stay down or get up and let it make you stronger."

Dr. Jon Matthews, CCCC Harnett Provost, had the welcoming remarks.

Introduction of Faculty was by Jason Haskins, CCCC Director of Health and Professional Services Programs. He also led the Health Occupations' Pledge.

Margaret Roberton, CCCC Vice President for Workforce Development, introduced the student speakers.

The presentation of students was by Dr. Kristi Short, CCCC Vice President/Chief Academic Officer.

CCCC President Dr. Lisa M. Chapman presented certificates to the graduates.

Greg Singleton, CCCC Dean of Workforce & Continuing Education programs, had closing remarks.

To learn more about Central Carolina Community College and its programs, visit www.cccc.edu.