Pictured l-r are: Lauryn King, Karlee Hammack, Jasmine Kearney, Jessica Lopez-Riano, Dori Sullivan, Kaitlyn Green, Alexis Clemmons and Anna Blair

Amie Sasser, a CT/MRI instructor and clinical coordinator at 91ӣ����Ƶ, delivered her remarks to the eight graduates who were pinned May 6 during ECC’s Radiography Pinning Ceremony. Sasser urged ECC’s Radiography Class of 2026 to pursue success while keeping a greater purpose at the center of their work. She framed her message around three words: precision, patience and purpose.

“You did not choose an easy path,” Sasser told the graduates. “You chose a profession that lives at the intersection of technology and humanity. You chose a field where a fraction of a millimeter matters, where timing is everything, and where the images you produce can change the entire course of someone’s life.”

Sasser reminded the graduates that integrity, resilience and compassion remain essential in every environment. “You’ve learned protocols, anatomy, pathology and physics,” she said. “But beyond all of that, you’ve learned something even more important—how to care for people in moments of vulnerability.”

Desiree Duncan, radiography program chair, shared that sentiment.

“Eight strong, this year’s radiography class stood out not just for sharp minds and fearless critical thinking, but for a natural, generous leadership that lifted everyone around them,” said Duncan. “They challenged the status quo with genuine curiosity, taught me more about AI than I ever expected to learn, and turned innovation into everyday practice. I see this group setting a new standard for patient centered imaging in our community—safer, smarter and more compassionate—because they don’t just master the technology; they humanize it.”

Seven of the eight graduates already passed the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT) exam on their first attempt, according to Duncan. The last graduate will take the test later this month. Graduates must pass this national exam to become registered radiographers. Passing earns them the title of R.T.(R)(ARRT). This title shows they are registered radiologic technologists with the ARRT. Once certified, these versatile professionals can work in a variety of healthcare settings. These places include hospitals, clinics, doctor’s offices, labs, government agencies, and other healthcare settings.

Following a student address to classmates by class president Karlee Hammack, the eight radiography graduates received their pins from faculty members Deanne Swartout, Melissa Davis, Denise Spence and Kimberly Brayboy.

The members of the Radiography Class of 2026 are Lauryn King, Karlee Hammack, Jasmine Kearney, Jessica Lopez-Riano, Dori Sullivan, Kaitlyn Green, Alexis Clemmons and Anna Blair.
The Academic Excellence Award was presented to Karlee Hammack, the radiography student with the highest-grade point average. Dori Sullivan received the Lynwood D. Twisdale Memorial Award, presented to the best all-around student who demonstrates the best attitude, best performance, and excellent proficiency.

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ECC’s largest Associate Degree Nursing graduates were pinned two days before commencement

91ӣ����Ƶ recognized its Associate Degree Nursing graduates on May 6 during the annual pinning ceremony on the Tarboro campus. The 54 graduates were pinned two days before ECC’s commencement ceremony.

“This year’s ADN pinning ceremony was especially meaningful as we celebrated 54 graduates — the largest graduating class in our program’s history,” said Ami Denton, director of nursing programs. “Their dedication, resilience and compassion represent the future of nursing, and we are incredibly proud to welcome them into the profession.”

All graduates have met the education requirements to take the NCLEX-RN, the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses.

During the ceremony, graduates heard an inspiring message from Dr. Sherri Smith Hamiel, DNP, RN. Hamiel is a nursing instructor with more than two decades of experience in healthcare. She began her career as a certified nursing assistant in high school and has since worked in several specialties, including cardiopulmonary, telemetry, gastrointestinal, school nursing and clinical education.

Hamiel is an ECC alumna who earned an associate degree in nursing. She later completed a Bachelor of Science in Nursing, a Master of Science in Nursing Education and a Doctor of Nursing Practice degree.

As part of the ceremony, Mishay Wheeler and Brianna Dawson received DAISY Awards. Established in 1999, the DAISY Award recognizes nursing students who demonstrate compassion, advocacy and leadership. The award was created by the DAISY Foundation in memory of J. Patrick Barnes, who died at age 33 from an autoimmune disease. His family established the foundation to honor the nurses who cared for him.

Pictured l-r Instructor Lisa Jenkins, Brianna Dawson, Mishay Wheeler and Renee Mayo, vice president of patient care services, CNO at ECU Health Edgecombe Hospital

ECC congratulates the Associate Degree Nursing Class of 2026:

MD Jubayer Alam
Ashanti Anstead
Kimberly Battle
Jayla Boyd
Katrina Broadie
Jazmine Casanova
Maira Caudle
Fatou Cham
Baylee Clark
Emily Colt
Nicole Coombs
Takia Daniels
Hannah Davis
Brianna Dawson
Tamara Dildy
Squia Eatmon
Willette Edge
Olivia Edwards
Stacy Exum
Montressee Ferrell
Latisha Godard
Jarell Ham
Nyesha Hardy
Amberly Harris
Bailey Hicks
Casey Holmes
Luv Hope
Quinisha Horne
Tasha Hunter
Mya Johnson
Alexis Knight
Caroline Matia
Jeannette McDaniel
Malinda Mitchell
Debrisha Morris-Hardy
Serena Petway
Lakesha Powell
Lillie Ribeiro
Shannon Ricks
Trudy Roberson
Sainabou Samba
Sarah Shelton
Tiffany Speight
Shaqina Spencer
Tyvon Sumler
Alina Timberlake
Alana Tyson-Paredes
Melissa Vega
Tiara Webb
Mishay Wheeler
Devan Whitehurst
Requita Williams
Shakelia Williams
Taylor Williams

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“Built here. Now what?” That was the message delivered by Ron Green, chief executive officer of the Boys & Girls Clubs of the Tar River Region, during 91ӣ����Ƶ’s commencement ceremony on Friday, May 8.

Green emphasized the role of community colleges in shaping students’ futures, telling graduates that being “built” at a community college carries meaning.

Tara Davis

“You see that word ‘community.’ It matters, because community colleges don’t just educate you. They elevate you,” Green said. “They don’t require perfection. They develop potential.”

Green, who has led the organization in the Tar River Region for 14 years, said he related to the graduates. He began his own academic journey at Itawamba Community College in Mississippi, an experience he said gave him confidence.

“It taught me that my starting point didn’t define my ceiling,” he said. “Where I began didn’t limit where I could go.”

ECC awarded credentials to 553 graduates in the Class of 2026. The college conferred 207 degrees, 123 diplomas and 223 certificates. Another 55 students completed Adult High School Equivalency or Adult High School diplomas.

ECC President Dr. Greg McLeod encouraged graduates to continue advancing toward their goals.

Eddie Batchelor IV

“Whether your next step is transferring to a four-year institution, returning here for another credential, or applying the training you have received in your career or business, don’t stop moving. Keep going,” McLeod said.

Among the graduates was Tara Davis, ECC’s Academic Excellence Award recipient. Davis earned an associate degree in applied science in surgical technology with a 4.0 grade-point average and is already working as a surgical technology associate at the ECU Health Heart Institute Cardiovascular Operating Room.

Other honorees included Eddie Batchelor IV, recipient of the Governor Robert W. Scott Student Leadership Award, which recognizes exemplary student leadership. Batchelor, a student ambassador and member of Phi Theta Kappa, will continue his studies at North Carolina Wesleyan University this fall.

Erma Battle-Mills received the Dallas Herring Achievement Award, presented to a student who exemplifies Herring’s philosophy of “taking people where they are and carrying them as far as they can go.” Battle-Mills earned her high school equivalency at age 76 and is enrolled in ECC’s digital navigator’s course.

Erma Battle-Mills

Three graduates were recognized for having the highest grade-point averages in their academic divisions: Alfredo Hernandez Garcia (Arts and Sciences), Ashley Culbertson (Business, Industry and Technologies) and Taylor Batts (Health Sciences).

Green closed his remarks by encouraging graduates to remember the childhood game rock, paper, scissors as a metaphor for navigating life’s challenges.

“When life looks at you and asks ‘now what?’ remember this,” he said. “The rock—find the person who will hold you down. The paper—keep sharpening your pencil because your story is still being written. Scissors—identify the people, places and things you need to cut out of your life to reach your dreams.”

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Two graduation ceremonies took place March 11 on the Tarboro campus of 91ӣ����Ƶ. Eight students in the college’s natural hair care program received their certifications, while four earned certifications in manicuring nail technology.

“Over the course of three months, our natural hair care and nail graduates have committed themselves to learning, practicing, and perfecting their craft,” said Georgina Bond, program chair for cosmetology. “They have not only mastered technique, but embraced the discipline, creativity and confidence required to thrive in this industry.”

Nail technology students receive instruction and practice in manicuring, nail building and pedicuring. Students in the natural hair care program have studied and practiced chemical-free hair styling.

“As they take this next step, they now prepare to sit for their state board exams, an important milestone on the path to becoming licensed professionals,” continued Bond. “With the knowledge they’ve gained and the dedication they’ve shown, they are well-equipped to succeed.”

The Spring 2026 graduates, pictured from l-r in the front row are: Mercedes Veltri (natural hair), Ashley Tyson (natural hair), Shaelah King (natural hair), Cynthia Noel (natural hair), Asia Alston (natural hair), Kanashia Arrington (natural hair) and Rhonda Ruffin (nail technology). Pictured in the back row are: Janiyah Slade (natural hair), Erica Shaw (natural hair), Treasure Cary (nail technology) and Akavia Leach (nail technology). Not pictured: Ambria Johnson (nail technology).

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Erma Battle

Life hasn’t always been easy for Erma Battle, but her determination has never wavered. The vibrant 76-year-old recently visited the Campus Store at 91ӣ����Ƶ to select the perfect frame for her diploma. After completing the High School Equivalency program, she is eagerly preparing to walk across the stage at ECC’s commencement in May — a milestone that has been decades in the making.

Battle recalls growing up with her grandmother and attending a small school during the height of segregation.

“Back in my day, they had a one-room class,” Battle said. “There was no mixing (of the races), and I helped by working in the kitchen.”

By 1965, the Whitakers native was pregnant and had to leave school. With a tenth-grade education, she moved to Washington, D.C., where she worked for Trailways and later held jobs as a machine operator, cook and door greeter. After losing her oldest child at age 41, suffering an injury, and going on disability, Battle knew she wanted her next chapter to be about fulfillment.

“I promised my mother that if I lived to see it, I was going to finish my GED,” she said.

That promise eventually led her to ECC. After years of obstacles and a struggle with confidence, Battle says the instructors and fellow students became her support system.

“My hair might be gray, but one thing about it is, you will not stop me,” she said. “Mr. Sykes and Mrs. Sessoms gave me so much respect — not only them but the students.”

Known affectionately as “Grandma,” Battle studied diligently and met all requirements to complete the program. She now joins a family of women who have prioritized education, including a daughter, granddaughter, and niece who are nurses. Nursing was also her mother’s profession.

“I tell my daughter I am proud, and I talk to my mom, even though she is dead and gone. I told her, ‘Ma, I got it.’”

What’s next for the 76-year-old? She hopes to help others, possibly by training as a nurse’s aide.

“It’s so much you can do to help elderly people,” she said. “They need help, and they may not have the right help.”

Now a Battleboro resident, Battle is still taking classes at ECC and is currently learning about computers.

Look for Erma Battle during ECC’s graduation on May 8.

“I’m proud of Edgecombe,” she said. “I am proud of my experience.”

The High School Equivalency program at ECC assists adult learners in earning the equivalent of a high school diploma. The program is offered at no charge. For more information or to apply, call 252-618-6707 for the Rocky Mount campus or 252-618-6680 for the Tarboro campus.

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Ron Green

Ron Green, chief executive officer of the Boys & Girls Clubs of the Tar River Region, will deliver the keynote address at 91ӣ����Ƶ’s 2026 Commencement on Friday, May 8.

Green, who has led the organization for 14 years, is widely recognized for strengthening youth development across Nash and Edgecombe counties. Under his leadership, the eight local clubs have incorporated initiatives that support academic achievement.

In 2025, Green received the national Blue Spirit Award, one of the highest honors presented by Boys & Girls Clubs of America. The award is given to only five CEOs nationwide for extraordinary service. Green has worked in the Boys & Girls Club movement for more than 26 years. He also serves as a national trainer for Boys & Girls Clubs of America and is dean of the Society of African American Professionals. His past leadership roles include serving on the organization’s President’s National Advisory Council. He is a member of the Achievement Academy Committee for the Grand Chapter of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc.

“Since its founding, 91ӣ����Ƶ has been committed to fostering student success and community prosperity for all, and Ron Green’s work with the Boys & Girls Clubs of the Tar River Region aligns with that vision,” said ECC President Dr. Greg McLeod. “He has guided countless young people who have gone on to excel in their careers, and our community has benefitted from his leadership and training.”

A Mississippi native, Green began his higher education journey at Itawamba Community College in Fulton, Miss. where he earned an associate degree. He later completed a bachelor’s degree at Bethel University in McKenzie, Tenn. He also attended Samford University in Birmingham, Ala., where he played baseball and football before beginning a five-year professional baseball career in the Chicago Cubs organization.

Green has continued to pursue professional development throughout his career. He completed executive education in Performance Measurement for Effective Management of Nonprofit Organizations at Harvard University’s John F. Kennedy School of Government. He holds a certificate in nonprofit management from Duke University. Additionally, Green is a Six Sigma Green Belt, a certified professional and executive coach, and he holds a certification in gamification from the University of Pennsylvania.

“I am ecstatic that Ron accepted our invitation to serve as ECC’s 2026 Commencement speaker,” McLeod said. “I am looking forward to hearing his uplifting message that I know will resonate with our graduates.”

Green lives in Rocky Mount with his wife, Robbie. They have two children, Channing and London, both graduates of North Carolina A&T State University.

ECC’s Commencement ceremony will be held Friday, May 8, at 4 p.m. in Astemo Auditorium, located in the Fleming Building on the Tarboro campus.

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Pictured from left to right: Mattalyn Rouse, Brittany Cox, Bidjie Fevrier, Suzi Shippen-Wagner (program chair), Kaitlyn Watkins, Maria Lopez, and Tara Davis.

91ӣ����Ƶ celebrated its surgical technology graduates with a pinning ceremony on Dec. 12. The six graduates have successfully completed the academic requirements qualifying them to sit for the national certification exam administered by the National Board of Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting.

Surgical technologists play a vital role, supporting nurses, surgeons and other healthcare professionals. Their responsibilities center on maintaining a sterile environment and ensuring proper preparation before, during and after surgical procedures.

Congratulations to this year’s surgical technology graduates.

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Slideshow

91ӣ����Ƶ held its Emergency Medical Services graduation ceremony Dec. 4 in Tarboro. Sixty-two students completed their training, receiving their certificate and eligibility to take the state test and become certified. Of those 62 students, 37 completed Emergency Medical Technician (EMT), 14 completed Advanced Emergency Medical Technician (AEMT), and 11 completed paramedic training.

An EMT delivers emergency medical services outside of the hospital, such as at homes, accident scenes, public places and in ambulances. The AEMT program is designed for individuals who are already EMT’s. In this program, they advance their knowledge and ability to provide treatment. Paramedics are licensed to provide a wide range of advanced emergency services and some complex procedures outside of the hospital.

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Natural hair care graduates pictured (l-r) are: Shayln Richardson, Kenisha Shields, Jasmine Clark, Kennedy Bynum, Jalexus Waller, Kiara Brown and Mykea Nelson.

Nail technology graduates pictured (l-r) are: Takira Bellamy, Jennifer Solis, Deona Stephen, Christiana Joyner and Lekita Cobb.

Natural hair care and nail technology graduations took place Nov. 6 on the Tarboro campus. Students in the natural hair care program study and practice chemical-free hair styling. The courses are completed in four months for daytime students and seven months for students who take evening classes. In nail technology, there is instruction and practice in manicuring, nail building and pedicuring. Seven students graduated from the natural hair care program, and five graduated in nail technology.

Congratulations to all of the graduates.

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Pictured l-r, front row: Dr. Mark Dickens, chaplain, Edgecombe County Sheriff’s Office; Tiffany Lawrence; Jaiydah Daniels; Amber Jones and Austin Glenn
Second row: Bernie Taylor, school director, ECC BLET; Cole Stewart; Markel Freeman; Sean Bailey; Tyner Bell; Michael Rawlins and Al Braxton, assistant to school director, ECC BLET

“This is a big day for us,” said Cole Stewart during the graduation ceremony for the 16th Basic Academy for Basic Law Enforcement Training (BLET) at 91ӣ����Ƶ. “As it says in our code of ethics, our fundamental duty is to serve the community. We have been given an enormous power and responsibility to give our hearts and minds to the people that we serve,” continued the academy’s platoon leader.

Stewart was one of nine who graduated from the academy on Nov. 25. The graduates gathered in the Fleming Building on ECC’s Tarboro campus, surrounded by friends, family and officers from partnering law enforcement agencies who encouraged them throughout their arduous journey.

“We’re so proud of our graduates,” commented Dr. Greg McLeod, ECC president. “We know it was not easy. In fact, this program is one of the hardest, if not the hardest program mentally, physically and also emotionally that you can take at any community college. We’re grateful to you for having chosen us and for having chosen this profession.”

The BLET Academy at ECC prepares students for entry-level employment as a law enforcement officer with state, county or municipal agencies. This preparation includes training in high-risk calls, crisis intervention, as well as tests on tasers, pepper spray and expandable batons. According to Bernie Taylor, BLET school director, cadets commenced the 25-week class on June 9, 2025.

There were “long grueling days, endless hours of studying for tests, physical training rituals that began every morning at 5:15 a.m., and the countless practical scenarios every cadet has to complete,” recalled Taylor.

Thanks to Taylor and 47 instructors on the BLET training staff, all nine cadets passed the state comprehensive certification examination, and all nine have been hired by seven different law enforcement agencies.

The following graduated from ECC’s BLET Academy and have been hired by the law enforcement agencies listed beside their name.

• Sean Bailey, Winterville Police Department
• Tyner Bell, Tarboro Police Department
• Jaiydah Daniels, Edgecombe County Sheriff’s Office
• Markel Freeman, Bertie County Sheriff’s Office
• Austin Glenn, Farmville Police Department
• Amber Jones, Edgecombe County Sheriff’s Office
• Tiffany Lawrence, Bertie County Sheriff’s Office
• Michael Rawlins, Pitt County Sheriff’s Office
• Cole Stewart, Belhaven Police Department

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