East Arkansas Community College held the forty-second annual Commencement Ceremony for the graduating class of 2017 in the Fine Arts Center Auditorium on Friday, May 5th. 152 graduates in 25 academic and technical programs were awarded a total of 225 degrees and certificates during the annual event.

Earlier in the day, EACC held the annual Honors Breakfast in recognition of students for their academic achievements at EACC.  Aldo Eduardo Mora-Delgado served as the Honor Graduate representative, and Debra Frost was recognized as the 2017 Distinguished Alumnus.

The Associate of Applied Science Nursing program held the annual Pinning Ceremony for fifteen graduates of the Nursing Program at 3:00 p.m. in the Fine Arts Center Auditorium. 

A variety of degrees were awarded at the Commencement Ceremony including: Associate of Arts, Associate of Science degrees in Business and Criminal Justice, Associate of Applied Science degrees in Administrative Office Technology, Criminal Justice, Medical Assisting Technology, Nursing, and Radiologic Technology.  Certificates awarded were: Certificate in General Studies, Technical Certificates in Advanced Emergency Medical Technology, Criminal Justice, Health Professions, Office Technology, and Renewable Energy Technology. Certificates of Proficiency awarded were: Criminal Justice, Diesel Technology, Medical Professions Education, and Renewable Energy Technology.

Dr. Coy Grace, EACC President welcomed the large crowd to the Commencement ceremonies. Honor Graduate Raymond Chapman of Wynne served as the Student Speaker and Dr. Janie Bailey, Vice President for Academic Affairs, presented the candidates as Dr. Coy Grace conferred the degrees. 

Honor Graduate Raymond Chapman of Wynne addresses his graduating class during Friday night’s ceremony.

Dr. Coy Grace, EACC President, presents diploma to Linnitta Ivey. Ivy graduated with an Associate of Arts degree and Certificate in General Studies.

EACC students (from left: Kevin McClintock, Amber Wolfe, Kameron Luke, Brandon Johnson, and MiTyra James) pose for pictures before the 2017 Commencement Ceremony.