Mr. Harold W. Clarke, Director of the Virginia Department of Corrections, represented by Scott Richeson, Deputy Director of Programs, Education, and Re-entry, received an Associate Degree in Humane Letters, an honorary award recognizing his distinguished achievements in support of our Campus Within Walls program. Graduating SVCC student Anna Stinson was recognized for being named to the Phi Theta Kappa All-USA All-Virginia Academic Team and Hayley Perkinson was awarded the Florence Daniel Riepe Kalbacker Award for Leadership and Community Service.  

The ceremony’s highlight, of course, featured our graduating students. As they took giant steps into their futures, we joyfully celebrated their individual successes, and we acknowledged some mixed emotions as we said goodbye.

Saul Nunez of Bracey, VA 

Saul Nunez understood. “Graduating has filled me with a rollercoaster of emotions,” he said, “but it means that all my hard work is finally paying off and I am being recognized for it.” Saul says his time at SVCC was a growing experience and an opportunity to rediscover himself. Now that he’s a graduate, Saul plans to enter the workforce.

Sakinah Muhammad of Meherrin, VA

Sakina Muhammad also felt excited about her accomplishments. She commented, “To be graduating from SVCC means a new beginning. Coming fresh into college as a high school graduate, I was very unsure about what I wanted to do, and what I wanted my future to look like. I now have a clearer mind, and goals I want to achieve moving forward.” Sakina plans to continue her studies, pursuing a degree in biology on her way to becoming a Physician’s Assistant.

Canisha Glasgow of LaCrosse, VA

Another graduating student, Canisha Glasgow, summed up her experience. “Graduating from SVCC meant a lot to me because, as a single mother, I was able to work while taking courses online to complete my Associates degree.” She credits the faculty and staff for helping her excel. “I am at my best and looking forward to all the great opportunities SVCC has prepared me for.” Canisha plans to continue her education at Old Dominion University where she will pursue a Bachelor of Science degree in Human Services.

Each student that walked across the stage had his or her own personal story of overcoming obstacles and achieving triumphs. I am immensely proud of all of them and grateful to have shared in their journeys.

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Dr. Quentin R. Johnson is president of Southside Virginia Community College, an institution of higher learning that provides a wide variety of education opportunities to a diverse student population within a service area that spans ten counties and the City of Emporia. He can be reached via email at quentin.johnson@southside.edu.