South Georgia State College celebrated its graduates during annual commencement ceremonies May 15, 2025, on the Douglas Campus and May 16, 2025, on the Waycross Campus. Family members and friends gathered to cheer on a portion of the 331 graduates from summer and fall 2024 and spring 2025.
SGSC Interim President Dr. Greg Tanner opened the ceremonies with remarks honoring the perseverance and achievements of this year’s graduates, many of whom have overcome significant challenges—including personal hardships and the aftermath of a destructive hurricane that affected the Douglas campus earlier this year.
A special moment of gratitude was extended to military members and veterans in attendance, with a tribute to Airman Ayonna Jenae Hightower, currently stationed at Holloman Air Force Base, who completed her Associate of Science in Allied Health. Another highlight was the recognition of the first graduates from SGSC’s Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering Technology program, marking a significant academic milestone.
Dr. Tanner also shared impressive outcomes from a recent graduate survey. He stated that 94% of graduates reported feeling prepared for post-graduation success, over 90% felt they received the knowledge, skills, and support needed to thrive, and 83% of graduates had already secured employment prior to commencement.
“These numbers speak to the strength of our academic programs and the resilience of our students,” said Dr. Tanner. “While there is always room to grow, these outcomes reflect the value of an SGSC education.” He emphasized that as SGSC looks toward its future, it is currently undergoing reaffirmation with the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges and preparing to launch its Strategic Plan for 2029, which aims to elevate student achievement, enhance institutional effectiveness, and expand the college’s impact across South Georgia.
Matt Seale, CEO of the Douglas-Coffee County Chamber of Commerce and Economic Development Authority, provided the commencement address at the 8:30 am ceremony on the Douglas Campus. Seale delivered a powerful message about the enduring value of one’s name and the reputation that defines it. He opened with the acknowledgement of the anticipation of graduates and families eager to hear one thing above all: their name called as they walked across the stage.
But he pivoted to a deeper message. “Today I would like to share some thoughts with you on that very important topic: your name,” Seale began. “It’s more than just a label. It’s a promise. It’s a commitment. It’s the collective impression of your character, your integrity, your actions, and your relationships.”
Drawing from personal experiences, he demonstrated how life choices shape and expand the meaning behind a name. He emphasized that in a world driven by titles and material success, true distinction lies in character. “Your talent and the degree you receive today will get your foot in the door,” he told graduates. “But it is character that will keep you in the room.”
He challenged the Class of 2025 to be intentional about their reputations, noting that trust, built through consistent and principled action, is the most valuable form of capital in today’s world. “You are the master of your reputation. You are the owner of your name,” Seale stated. “Go forth. Build your name. Make it mean something extraordinary.” The address closed with the line everyone had been waiting for: “It’s time for everyone to hear… your name.”
Dr. Lynn Barber, Superintendent of Ware County Schools, provided the commencement address at the 8:30 am ceremony on the Waycross Campus. He encouraged the graduates to see their diplomas not as a destination, but as a launching point toward meaningful careers and impactful lives. “Today is not just about walking across a stage—it’s about every step it took to get here,” Dr. Barber said.
Reflecting on his own educational and professional journey, the speaker emphasized the Power of Proximity—a concept based on the idea that success is shaped by the people and places around us. “You’ve been in proximity with great professors who have poured into you,” he noted. “This place, this institution, has helped shape who you are today.”
A theme of lifelong learning echoed throughout the address, with a strong encouragement to stay curious and committed to growth. “Trust me, you are going to forget most of the factual knowledge you’ve learned. But what will stay with you is the knowledge that you’ve been prepared to take on any obstacle.”
The graduates were challenged to make an impact beyond the classroom or workplace. “South Georgia State College has given you a foundation. How will you give back to your community, your career field, or your family,” he asked. “You’ve earned this moment. Now go build something with it. Let your degree be the beginning of something greater—because the real world needs your passion, your work ethic, your voice.”
Tina Stevens provided the commencement address at the noon program on the Waycross Campus. Ms. Stevens graduated from SGSC’s School of Nursing in May 2024 with her RN degree. Drawing on the verse from Jeremiah 29:11 – “For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future” – the speaker reminded graduates that while this ceremony marks an ending, it is more importantly the beginning of something far greater.
Having sat in the same seats just one year ago as a member of the 2024 nursing class, Stevens recounted how the loss of her husband to COVID-19 became the catalyst for her return to school. She credited her drive to return and her success to the strong support system of her children, her parents, the nursing faculty, and her fellow students. “It takes a village—and I’m forever thankful for mine,” she said, underscoring the spirit that defines SGSC.
In her message to graduates, she offered both wisdom and reality about the nursing profession. “There will be tears of sadness and tears of joy. You will witness life begin and life end. But in all of it, I pray that you remember your why—the reason you chose this path.” They were encouraged to embrace the journey ahead, not only with passion, but also with purpose and strategy.
“You alone can write the story you were meant to tell,” she said. “Let every mistake be your teacher, and every experience a building block. This is your time.” She emphasized that as graduates move on to serve in hospitals, clinics, and communities near and far, the message is clear. They are ready. They are united. And they are called to make a difference.
The ceremonies concluded with the traditional conferring of degrees and the turning of tassels, officially marking the graduates’ transition into the next chapter of their lives.
For more information about South Georgia State College, visit www.sgsc.edu.