Connection January-February 2026

January/February 2026

TCTC Breaks Ground on Anderson Campus Workforce Development Program Expansion

Tri-County Technical College broke ground January 16 on a $31 million investment at the Anderson Campus designed to expand and grow workforce development programs.

TCTC President Galen DeHay was joined by College Commissioners and Anderson County government, education and economic development partners to celebrate the expansion that will develop the existing property at the College’s Anderson Campus.

This groundbreaking marks the beginning of construction on an expansion that will create a manufacturing, utilities, transportation and logistics hub to house Power Line Worker (PLW), Heavy Equipment Operator (HEO), Commercial Truck Driving (CDL), Forklift Operations and Safety, Certified Logistics Technician, Mechatronics Technology, Automotive Technology and Heavy Duty Diesel Technology programs on a single campus.

The project involves the expansion of credit programs and non-credit industry certifications that align with area workforce needs and economic growth.

Construction is expected to be completed by the end of 2027.

Funding for the infrastructure to support these expanding programs is coming from a combination of College-accumulated capital reserves, state capital reserve appropriations and a federal equipment grant. The College’s Foundation is also soliciting donations from entities and individuals interested in supporting this mission-critical project.

“As an Anderson County resident, today’s announcement is particularly exciting for me,” said Hamid Mohsseni, chair of the TCTC Commission. “This expansion will provide greater access to high-quality programs and resources, helping students gain the skills they need to succeed and strengthening the economic vitality of our region. We are proud of the partnerships that made this possible and grateful for the community’s support. Together, we are building opportunities that will benefit generations to come.”

TCTC broke ground on the Anderson Campus, its first community campus, on December 2, 2005, and it opened in 2007 with 42,000 square feet of classrooms, labs, learning commons and collaboration space.

is published six times each year by the Office of the President and the Public Relations Department.

Mailing Address (All Campuses)

P. O. Box 587

Pendleton, SC 29670

Pendleton Campus 7900 Highway 76 Pendleton, SC

Anderson Campus 511 Michelin Blvd. Anderson, SC

Easley Campus 1774 Powdersville Rd. Easley, SC

Oconee Campus

552 Education Way Westminster, SC

Main Number (864) 646-TCTC (8282)

Toll-free

1-866-269-5677

tctc.edu

Tri-County Technical College is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) to award associate degrees. TriCounty Technical College also may offer credentials such as certificates and diplomas at approved degree levels. Questions about the accreditation of Tri-County Technical College may be directed in writing to the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges at 1866 Southern Lane, Decatur, GA 30033-4097, by calling (404) 679-4500, or by using information available on SACSCOC’s website (www.sacscoc.org).

Tri-County Technical College does not discriminate in admission or employment on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, qualifying disability, veteran’s status, or national origin.

Tri-County Technical College’s nondiscrimination policy and grievance procedures can be located at tctc.edu/TitleIX. To report information about conduct that may constitute sex discrimination or make a complaint of sex discrimination under Title IX, please refer to tctc.edu/TitleIX.

Building South Carolina’s Workforce

This month, I want to share encouraging news about the powerful impact technical colleges are making across our state and the significant role Tri-County Technical College plays in strengthening our region’s economy.

A new economic impact study from the University of South Carolina’s Darla Moore School of Business confirms what many of us see every day: technical education delivers exceptional value for students, employers, and communities. According to the study, the S.C. Technical College System generates $6.4 billion in annual economic impact and supports more than 38,000 jobs statewide. Even more important, these benefits stay close to home. More than 81% of graduates are employed in South Carolina one year after completing their program, and nearly two-thirds remain in the state a decade later.

Here at TCTC, our contribution is both measurable and meaningful. The study shows that TCTC produces $348 million in annual economic impact and supports 2,458 jobs across Anderson, Oconee, and Pickens counties. That impact reflects the success of our graduates, the spending their careers support, and the ripple effects of our operations and investments.

But behind every statistic is a story. It’s the story of our students who discover confidence, purpose, and a path to careers that once felt out of reach. It’s the story of employers who can expand because they have the skilled talent they need. It’s the story of our communities becoming stronger and more resilient because opportunities are within reach for more people.

As South Carolina faces increasing workforce shortages driven by economic growth, demographic shifts, and evolving industry needs, technical colleges are uniquely positioned to help close the gap. By working closely with employers, we ensure our programs remain aligned with the skills most needed in fields such as advanced manufacturing, health care, information technology, and emerging technical industries.

TCTC is prepared to meet this moment. With continued support, we will expand highdemand programs, strengthen apprenticeships and work-based learning opportunities, and ensure every student has access to education and training that leads to a meaningful career.

In your service,

Galen DeHay, Ph.D. President

Fall Graduation Held December 15

Kayla Witthoeft, a two-time TriCounty Technical College graduate, delivered the keynote address at fall commencement held December 15. Witthoeft is a post-anesthesia and critical care nurse, educator and researcher at Prisma Health Oconee Memorial Hospital.

Two hundred and fifty-eight graduates received degrees, diplomas and certificates.

Witthoeft’s address focused on the power of small actions and how each of us can make the world just a tiny bit better.

Below is an excerpt from her speech:

“What if all of us used our skills not just to earn a living but to lift the world?

Those small acts of care add up—multiplied by thousands of graduates like you. That’s how communities change. That’s how workplaces transform. That’s how innovation actually happens.

A small improvement in patient care becomes a healthier community.

A small improvement in machinery becomes fewer accidents.

A small improvement in design becomes a breakthrough years later.

A small improvement in how you treat others becomes a ripple of kindness bigger than you will ever see.

And if each of you does that – if you give your communities, your workplaces, and your corner of the world just one small improvement at a time – then someday we’ll look back and realize something incredible:

All those tiny improvements weren’t tiny at all.

They were the foundation of a better world that you helped create. Congratulations, graduates. Go out there and make things just a little bit better, one moment at a time.”

About Kayla Witthoeft

Witthoeft began her nursing career after graduating from TCTC’s Licensed Practical Nursing (LPN) program in 2010 and the Associate Degree Nursing (ADN) program in 2012. She transferred to Clemson University where she earned a Bachelor of Science in Nursing.

In addition to being a bedside nurse in ICU at Oconee Memorial Hospital, she teaches TCTC LPN students during clinical rotations.

Her expertise in critical care and perioperative nursing has garnered local, state, national and international recognitions. Witthoeft was only one of five nurse innovators in the world to be recognized for conducting research leading to best practices for their patients.

In 2025, she was named TCTC’s Distinguished Alumni of the Year.

TCTC Moves to Next Level in Aspen Prize Competition

In October 2025, The Aspen Institute named TCTC as one of the 200 institutions eligible to compete for the $1 million Aspen Prize for Community College Excellence, the nation’s premier recognition of high achievement and performance among two-year colleges. The 200 colleges were selected based on their student outcomes data, including retention, completion, transfer, and bachelor’s attainment rates.

The College was notified that it has advanced to the next level, and an interview took place February 18 with a subset of the entire selection committee. The Aspen Institute will name

its 25 semifinalists in April. In June they will announce the 10 finalists and have site visits during the fall 2026 semester. The winner will be selected in February 2027.

“Being named an Aspen 200 college is a powerful affirmation of the work our faculty, staff, and community partners do every day to ensure student success. At Tri-County Technical College, we are committed to delivering high-quality education that transforms lives and strengthens our region. This recognition reflects our commitment to excellence in everything we do,” said TCTC President Galen DeHay.

Dr. Mandy Elmore and Courtney White address Board of Visitors.

Dual Enrollment Academy Update

Dr. Mandy Elmore, vice president academic affairs and workforce development, gave Board of Visitors members an update on the TCTC Dual Enrollment Academy, a first-of-itskind initiative that provides qualified high school students a guaranteed path to earn their Clemson degree.

Tri-County Technical College and Clemson University officials announced the partnership April 30, 2025.

The TCTC Dual Enrollment Academy is targeted to high school students in the Anderson, Oconee and Pickens school districts whose parents did not earn a bachelor’s degree. Students will be recruited in their sophomore year of high school and those admitted to the academy will take dual enrollment courses through TCTC at little to no cost. To be offered a guaranteed path to Clemson, participating students must meet all academic requirements and achieve a 3.0 or higher GPA in all college coursework and a 4.0 or higher GPA in all high school coursework.

“The TCTC Foundation Board set a goal of $5 million over a five-year period to fully endow the Academy so that first-generation high school students in the tri-county area can have access to a debt-free education while at TCTC and reduce their overall costs of obtaining a four-year degree,” said Courtney White, executive director for the TCTC Foundation.

Board of Visitors Meeting Held at Anderson Campus

The Board of Visitors met on January 29 at the Anderson Campus for its quarterly meeting. President DeHay welcomed the group and gave a briefing on spring enrollment and highlighted College’s performance metrics.

• TCTC’s spring enrollment (as of January 20) was 5,679, a 5.8% increase over spring 2025.

• TCTC is the only two-year college in S.C. to meet and exceed key performance metrics for student success. The success criteria are: graduate placement rate; licensure pass rate; fall to spring persistence rate; graduate production rate; and student success rate.

• TCTC’s graduate job placement rate is 91%. The performance funding benchmark is 85%.

• TCTC is in the 90th percentile for students completing, transferring or continuing at TCTC.

• TCTC’s collective first-time licensure exam pass rate is 94%. The benchmark is 80%. Programs with licensure exams are: Associate Degree Nursing, Expanded Duty Dental Assisting, Medical Assisting, Medical Laboratory Technology, Practical Nursing, Surgical Technology, and Veterinary Technology.

TCTC Foundation Hosts Fundraiser Gala for Dual Enrollment Academy

The TCTC Foundation hosted a Pathways Gala to benefit the Dual Enrollment Academy. The event was held Saturday, February 28, in the Ruby Hicks building on TCTC’s Pendleton Campus. The theme was “An Evening of Opportunity: Opening Doors, Changing Lives.” Around 150 community members attended The Pathways Gala to enjoy an evening of fellowship while learning about the Dual Enrollment Academy and ways to support it, said White.

Visionary sponsors of the event were TCTC Commissioner Jim Kaplan and his wife, Julee, and Harper General Contractors. Other sponsors included: Blue Ridge Electric Co-op, Duke Energy, Landscape Perceptions, Hamid and KD Mohsseni, Tom and Debra Strange, Joe and Cathy Turner, and Jim and Kim Wanner.

Julio Hernandez, assistant to the President for Community Outreach and Engagement for Clemson University, was the keynote speaker. He spoke about being the first in his family to graduate from high school and college and the impact his education has had on his life and career.

Our College Family

excellence through service

Three Honored as Educators of the Year

Congratulations to the three faculty/staff members who were honored as TCTC’s Educators of the Year and were recognized, along with other winners from our technical college system, at the annual South Carolina Technical Education Association (SCTEA) conference February 12-14 in Myrtle Beach.

Robin Long (left), director of the Office of Academic Development, is the College’s outstanding administrator.

Marlo Woodward (center), biology instructor, is the outstanding faculty member.

Melissa Brock (right), administrative assistant for the Business and Public Services Division, is the outstanding staff member.

SCTEA is a professional association of technical education personnel and others interested in post-secondary technical education.

Dr. Kyra Zhang , TCTC music instructor, pictured second from left, performed January 30 with the Greenville Clarinet Quartet as part of the College’s Cultural Enrichment series. Their concert was titled, “From Gershwin to Dolly Parton, A Celebration of American Music.”

Employees Represent TCTC in Leadership Programs

Several TCTC employees are representing the College in local and state leadership programs. At the local level, Mike Blizzard (above, left), director of IT Services and Delivery, is participating in Leadership Anderson, and Rhonda Gibby (above, center), vice president of Human Resources, is participating in Leadership Oconee. At the state level, Dr. Beverly McAdams (above, right), director of the Anderson Campus, is participating in Leadership South Carolina, and Katy Hardy (below, left), department head for the Associate of Arts, and Jonathan Cauthen (below, right), director of development for the TCTC Foundation, are participating in the S.C. Technical College System Leadership Academy.

Beth Brown Receives Oconee Chamber’s Volunteer of the Year Award

Beth Brown, manager of donor relations for the TCTC Foundation, was honored with the Oconee Chamber of Commerce’s Volunteer of the Year award at an annual meeting held February 3. Dari McBride, president of the Oconee Chamber, made the presentation.

Brown was recently named to the Oconee Chamber Foundation Board of Directors.

Beth Brown, manager of donor relations for the TCTC Foundation, left, and Dari McBride, president of the Oconee Chamber.

“Beth is such an incredible asset to our Chamber and to our community,” said McBride. “She is dependable, knowledgeable, and always willing to step in wherever she is needed. From serving on our Leadership Oconee Advisory Council and helping shape the development of future leaders, to supporting our golf tournament and other Chamber events, Beth leads with both heart and excellence. I am especially grateful for her willingness to serve on our Chamber Foundation Board as we work to strengthen its mission and future impact. We are truly fortunate to have her leadership and commitment.”

in transition

Griffin Specht is a statistical and research analyst in the Institutional Research department. With a strong background in institutional research and data science, he will manage major institutional surveys and support various reporting. Specht also will develop a variety of data visualizations to keep our publications clear, current, and informative.

Jessika Colvin-Tyo joined the Arts and Sciences Division as a science instructor. Prior to joining the College full-time, she taught middle school science in Anderson School District 5 and served as an adjunct instructor at TCTC. She is a Clemson University graduate.

Ron Wix joined the Maintenance team as an electrician. His responsibilities include installation and repair of electrical systems and equipment. Wix joins TCTC with a master’s electrical license and has 23 years of experience in electrical work.

Penny Myers is a full-time Associate Degree Nursing (ADN) faculty member after serving as an adjunct for the last two years. She earned a Master of Science degree in nursing with a focus in nursing education and brings 35 years of varied nursing experience to the position. She will be teaching within the classroom as well as in the nursing and simulation labs.

Hannah Kaufmann joined the math faculty in the Arts and Sciences Division this semester. Kaufmann holds a Master of Science degree in mathematical sciences from Clemson University and a Bachelor of Science degree in mathematics and physics from Southwest Baptist University. She served as a math lecturer during the fall 2025 semester and joined the department as a full-time faculty member in January.

Tyler Moore also joined the math faculty in the Arts and Sciences Division. He will lead our Math for Elementary Educators courses, working to revise Probability and Statistics with a project team, and helping with the continued work of building a strong and robust online and hybrid student experience.

John “Drew” McRae is returning to TCTC as one of our biologists. McRae assumed course directorships and roles within the division to actively move our offerings forward in an impactful way. He brings vast experience in designing courses for the hybrid and online modalities that will aid in further development of the department and division.

Megan Greenwald joins the biology faculty in the Arts and Sciences Division. Greenwald comes from Prisma Health and has been a TCTC adjunct faculty member over the past four years.

Jacob Bolduc joined the IT team as a systems engineer. Bolduc will be responsible for handling tier 3 support requests that are escalated from the service desk and service delivery team. He will also be responsible for keeping our server environment up to date.

William “Bill” Fetters joined the IT team as a systems engineer. Fetters will be responsible for handling tier 3 support requests that are escalated from the service desk and service delivery team. He also will be responsible for ensuring we have secure backups and will assist with the build-out of administrative automation tools.

Jeri Proehl joined the Nursing Department as a full-time faculty member. She earned a Master of Science degree in nursing, as well as a Master of Science degree in health care administration. Proehl spent 10 years as a bedside nurse and most recently served as an adjunct instructor at the University of South Carolina Beaufort. She will be teaching within the classroom as well in simulation and clinical settings.

Dr. Darren Lipscomb Joins TCTC as VP of Student Affairs

Dr. Darren Lipscomb has joined TCTC as chief student services officer (CSSO) and vice president of student affairs (VPSA). He assumed his new role on February 2.

As CSSO and VPSA, Dr. Lipscomb is responsible for providing strategic leadership for all student services and programs. He oversees enrollment and retention initiatives, student engagement, and compliance with state and federal regulations. As a member of the Executive Staff, Dr. Lipscomb will play a key role in shaping institutional priorities and advancing the College’s mission.

Dr. Lipscomb has more than 15 years of higher education experience, including 11 years at Delaware Community

retirements

Lt. Billy Albert Retires

Colleagues gathered January 20 to celebrate the accomplishments of Lt. Billy Albert, to thank him for his dedication to service, and to wish him well in his retirement.

Lt. Albert, who retires with 25 years of law enforcement service, joined TCTC’s Campus Police Department in 2019. He came to us from the Greenville Police Department where he spent 19 years. In 2008, he was named the Greenville Police Department’s officer of the year, and in 2022 he was named TCTC Campus Police Officer of the Year. He also played a critical role in helping Campus Police achieve accreditation by the South Carolina Law Enforcement Accreditation.

“It has been my pleasure to finish my law enforcement career at TCTC,” said Lt. Albert. “I’m deeply grateful for the friendships I’ve made here with colleagues throughout the College. It’s been an honor to serve the campus community, and I wish you all the best.”

“I want to express my sincere appreciation for the leadership, professionalism, and unwavering commitment Billy brought to TCTC. I am grateful for his dedicated service, especially in guiding the department through accreditation and reaccreditation, which has strengthened our campus in lasting ways. I wish Billy all the best in his next chapter. May it bring him fulfillment, rest, and new opportunities that he truly enjoys,” said Cara Hamilton, TCTC vice president of business affairs.

College, where he served in roles such as academic advisor, student activities coordinator, assistant director of admissions, and director of outreach, recruitment, and enrollment services. Most recently, he served as associate vice president for enrollment management at Community College of Philadelphia. In addition, he is a veteran of the Army National Guard, where he served seven years as an intelligence analyst.

He holds a bachelor’s degree in marketing and a master’s degree in counselor education from West Chester University of Pennsylvania, an Ed.D. from Widener University, and a Juris Doctor (J.D.) from Temple University’s James E. Beasley School of Law.

Arts and Sciences Faculty/Staff Retire

Three Arts and Sciences Division faculty/staff members retired from the College in December 2025:

• Andrea Barnett, math instructor for 15 years

• Frances Boyce, academic success coordinator

• Beverly Thompson, biology instructor for 15 years

“Saying goodbye to colleagues who have poured such passion, expertise, and care into our students is always difficult,” said Jennifer Hulehan, dean of the Arts and Sciences Division.

“Andrea, Beverly, and Frances leave behind a unique legacy—not just in the courses they taught or the administrative tasks they managed, but in the relationships they built as mentors, advocates, and friends. We are incredibly grateful for the energy they brought to the Arts and Sciences team, and we cheer them on as they begin their next chapters.”

TCTC Breaks Ground on Anderson Campus Expansion

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The campus serves several of the College’s goals by bringing its services closer to Anderson residents, increasing community involvement, and expanding educational opportunities. The goal was and still is to offer the services and programs where people live and work.

Over the years, it has become a hub for innovation and partnerships.

“One of the most unique features of this campus is our strong collaboration with the Anderson Institute of Technology (AIT), which serves Anderson School Districts 3, 4 and 5. Located adjacent to our campus, the AIT offers programs that transition seamlessly into degree pathways at Tri-County, creating a clear bridge from high school to college and career,” said President DeHay.

“For nearly two decades, this campus has served our students and community. But as our region’s workforce needs continue to grow, so must we,” said President DeHay.

The Anderson Campus master plan includes relocating the Automotive program from the Pendleton Campus to Anderson, developing a new Heavy Duty Diesel program, and expanding the two-year Mechatronics program in its entirety. The full Mechatronics program is also offered at the Pendleton Campus.

The Automotive program’s new 25,000-square-foot facility will support the curriculum’s intensive lab components and needs.

Heavy Duty Diesel is a new offering and will operate in conjunction with the Automotive program. It will be a one-year certificate, a stand-alone credential or an add-on for Automotive students.

A new 13,000-square-foot academic space at Anderson will house the full Mechatronics program.

Mechatronics currently enrolls 350 students at multiple sites (Pendleton, Anderson and Oconee campuses and the Anderson I and II Career and Technology Center). This expansion will allow for students to take the full two-year program at the Anderson Campus, which will be beneficial since most of these students come from Anderson County.

As part of the Anderson Campus expansion, industry certifications such as PLW, Forklift Operations and Safety, Certified Logistics Technician, CDL and HEO programs also will be enhanced and consolidated. The PLW, Forklift Operator, Certified Logistics Technician, HEO and CDL programs will move into new buildings and facilities on the west side of Michelin Boulevard.

“This expansion is a game-changer for our students, our employers, and our region,” said President DeHay. “In total, this expansion will allow us to serve more than 1,000 students across these eight programs.”

Most students in both the degree programs and the industry certification programs are eligible for Lottery Tuition Assistance and SC WINS scholarships. SC NEXUS for Advanced Resilient Energy offers scholarships for PLW students.

“Today’s expansion represents an investment in people, jobs, and the future of Anderson County,” said Senator Mike Gambrell. “The Anderson Campus sits near three federally designated Opportunity Zones, maximizing impact on economic development.” Senator Gambrell added that the expansion will provide easier access to training for residents in these communities and the existing bus service stops at the campus, ensuring transportation is not a barrier for students.

“This expansion at the Anderson Campus is more than just new buildings—it’s an investment in people and in the workforce that drives our local economy,” said Anderson County Council Chair Tommy Dunn. “As our community grows, so do the needs of our employers. Today’s groundbreaking is about building pathways to opportunity. It’s about preparing our citizens for good-paying jobs and strengthening the foundation of Anderson County’s future.”

“The TCTC Anderson Campus expansion will be a game changer for citizens with limited access to these programs in the Homeland Park and small towns in the rural areas of the county,” said Rep. Don Chapman, who represents District 8.

Renderings of the Mechatronics building (above) and the CDL building (right)

Pictured from left are Jordan Hunter, HVAC major; Jennifer Bearden, a Practical Nursing/Associate in Science major and work study; A.J. Willoughby, a Criminal Justice major and work/study; and Ruthie Millar, a TCTC alumna, who works as director of community outreach at Clemson Downs.

Students, Alumna Share Experiences During Professional Development Day

Spring Professional Development Day was held February 3. The theme was “Walk a Mile in My Shoes.” During the morning sessions, faculty and staff had a chance to gain fresh insights and broaden perspectives by hearing directly from their peers and their unique experiences.

A panel of current students and an alumna kicked off the day as each shared their experiences and their perspectives. They talked about how their support systems, which included faculty and staff, shape their journeys.

Participating in the panel were Jordan Hunter, HVAC major; Jennifer Bearden, a Practical Nursing/Associate in Science major; A.J. Willoughby, a Criminal Justice major; and Ruthie Millar, a TCTC alumna, who now works as director of community outreach at Clemson Downs.

Each panelist said faculty and staff serve as mentors, leaving a lasting impact on their educational and social experience.

Hunter was a dual enrollment student at the Anderson Campus. His strong interest in industrial and commercial cooling technologies led him to enroll in the HVAC program. He credits Program Director Justin Herndon’s “patience and kindness” with his success. “Guidance and success go hand in hand. If someone else doesn’t see your success, it’s hard to see it in yourself.”

Bearden is a first-generation student. She is a work study and is active with Patriots Place and the National Society of Leadership and Success. Her children are also TCTC students. Keeping these things balanced has challenged her and has helped her grow, both personally and professionally, she said.

Willoughby currently serves on the National Advocate Committee for Foster Youth. As a longtime foster youth himself, he was adopted at 17, right before aging out of the system. After graduating from high school, he entered TCTC. His career goal is to become a family court judge and recently, he secured an internship with Family Court Judge Karen Roper (serving Pickens and Greenville counties).

Willoughby is the president and founder of The Phoenix Society and is a work study student. “It’s nice to know someone cares about your success,” he said. “Most who are in foster care don’t end up here. But TCTC showed me possibilities and that people care about you.”

Millar concluded the discussion with this advice to the students, “Maintain the relationships you are building now. Keep those connections alive and build your network. Always be open to new experiences.” She completed her Associate in Arts degree in 2011 and went on to earn her bachelor’s degree in Business Administration from Lander University in 2023.

President DeHay, Alumnus Caleb Clement

Interviewed for Washington Post Article

President DeHay was interviewed for a Washington Post article that addresses the unemployment gap between workers with bachelor’s degrees and those with associate degrees. Caleb Clement, a former Dual Enrollment student and 2024 Mechatronics graduate and current BMW Scholar, also was interviewed and talked about the value of a two-year degree in today’s workforce.

Statistics gathered in 2025 show individuals with associate degrees or skilled trades training now experience lower unemployment rates than those with traditional four-year degrees, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). It’s the first time trade workers have had a leg up since the BLS started tracking this data in the 1990s.

In the Washington Post article, President DeHay said TCTC fall 2025 enrollment increased 4% compared with 2024, attracting students in advanced manufacturing, health care, business administration and computer sciences. He added that programs, such as nursing, have extensive wait lists. He said nearly 10% of the College’s students already have bachelor’s or master’s degrees.

He said dual enrollment programs in nursing, HVAC, and welding, for example, allow students to build skills and gain certifications at low or no cost during high school. “Whether students are younger or older, one of the first things they want to know is, ‘What am I going to make when I come out of college and where can I go immediately?’”

Through TCTC high school dual enrollment classes, Clement earned Technical Operator 1 and 2 certificates and one year of college credit. At age 19, he had a Mechatronics degree in hand and graduated with no debt. He was chosen as a BMW Scholar.

Through the BMW Scholars Program, Clement, now 21, attends classes in the day and works an evening shift at the plant, where he maintains the robots that help assemble everything from windowsills to body panels. In the article, he said,

“I’m doing something new. I get to genuinely go into work and work with my hands, but I’m also working with my mind,” Clement added. “Don’t just think we’re turning wrenches.”

P.O. Box 587

Pendleton, SC 29670

tctc.edu

TCTC Celebrates Black History Month

TCTC recognized the achievements, contributions, and culture of African Americans through relevant workshops and presentations during Black History Month.

True Black History Museum

The True Black History Museum, a traveling Black history exhibit with artifacts dating from the late 1700s to the 21st century, was on the Pendleton Campus February 5. The museum was established to preserve the history of African American people and to educate others of the many great contributions that African Americans have made to mankind.

Public Services Department Head Meredith Dickens and students in the Leadership in Early Care and Education and ECD 243 Supervised Field I class visited the museum and talked with its President Deanne Saffold.

“As emerging early educators, students hold professional responsibilities to ethically and responsibly serve children, families, colleagues, and their broader communities,” said Dickens. “Fulfilling these responsibilities requires a commitment to ongoing self-reflection and the intentional removal of personal biases.”

To support this growth, she brought the class to engage with the True Black History Museum during the scheduled class time. “The experience was meaningful and productive, sparking

thoughtful questions and rich discussions,” said Dickens.

“One display that particularly captured our attention was the children’s book “Little Brown Koko.” After reading the page that was open, we asked the museum curators and guides to share more about the book’s historical context, purpose, and intended audience. The book elicited strong emotions and prompted deeper conversation about the time period and the societal views reflected in its content.”

True Black History Museum President Deanne Saffold, right, talks with Early Care and Education students.