COLLEGEWIDE

 BY WALLACE CALEB BATES

Earlier today, we convened people from across the college I work for in one space.

It was a meaningful opportunity to engage with others and learn together during a day full of professional development. 

It is hard to believe I have been working at this college for over a year.

I really enjoy what I do and where I do it: the same place my mother began teaching nearly 20 years ago. 

This college has been a part of my family's story for a long time, and now it is part of mine in a way I could not have fully imagined when I was younger.

Today was a great example of why I am proud to be here.

In addition to professional development, we hosted our annual Going Pro Signing Day, a celebration of students entering the workforce in critical fields across our region. 

It was powerful to watch our students officially step into the next chapter of their lives.

Days like today remind me why education matters, not just in the classroom but also in the lives we help shape and the communities we help strengthen.

I am grateful for the people I work alongside, the students we serve, and the community we continue to build together.

Here's to more days of growth, laughter, and meaningful work.

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