Dalton State College Celebrates 340 Graduates at Fall Ceremony

Dalton State College hosted its Fall Commencement ceremony, celebrating the achievements of over 340 graduates. This year’s ceremony marked a 6% increase in the number of graduates compared to the Fall 2024 class. The event highlighted the dedication and hard work of students who are now ready to enter the workforce, many of whom have already secured full-time positions through internships and industry collaborations.

“Our mission is to provide a transformational education that equips students with the knowledge and skills they need to step confidently into their professions and lead in their communities,” said John Fuchko, President of Dalton State College. He emphasized the importance of the support from families, faculty, and community partnerships in achieving student success. “We are incredibly proud of this graduating class and the impact they are already making in our region.”

Among the graduates were Andrea Barajas, Collin Hadders, and Patton Pickard, each stepping into the next chapter of their professional lives. Like many of their peers, they credited their internships at Dalton State with helping them secure full-time roles in their respective fields before graduation.

Barajas, who earned a Bachelor of Business Administration in Management Information Systems, found that Dalton State offered the ideal mix of affordability and support. “I chose Dalton State because it felt like the right place to grow. It was close to home, affordable, and supportive with a strong focus on student success,” she stated. Her internship with Mohawk Industries allowed her to contribute to AI training models, paving the way for her upcoming role in the company’s ASPIRE Program.

Hadders, the first in his family to graduate from college, earned a Bachelor of Business Administration in Accounting. He appreciated the affordability and direct access to faculty at Dalton State. “From my first semester, DSC felt like a place where I could grow academically and personally,” he noted. His experience was enriched by the mentorship of faculty members, particularly Dr. Jamie Connors, who played a pivotal role in his academic journey. Hadders will join Novogradac & Company LLP, a top CPA firm, as he embarks on his professional career.

Pickard, also a first-generation college graduate, received a Bachelor of Applied Science in Engineering Technology. He expressed gratitude for the opportunities provided by Dalton State, which he says helped him develop confidence and leadership skills. “Dalton State gave me more than I could ever ask for. It gave me a career to look forward to and leadership skills I will take with me for the rest of my life,” he remarked. He interned with System Concepts Plus and secured a full-time role as a controls and automation engineer. In addition to his job, Pickard plans to pursue a master’s degree in computer and electrical engineering at Georgia Tech.

Dalton State College is committed to preparing graduates for high-demand fields through strategic internships, industry partnerships, and tailored academic programs. The institution is also responding to regional workforce needs by expanding its healthcare programs and developing new offerings, including industry-recognized micro-credentials and courses in fire science and occupational safety.

As these graduates embark on their professional journeys, Dalton State’s emphasis on practical experience and community engagement continues to shape the future workforce.