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Columbia State Celebrates Graduates at Spring 2024 Commencement
Columbia State Community College celebrated 309 degree and certificate candidates as they crossed the stage during the spring commencement ceremonies in the Webster Athletic Center on Saturday, May 4.
Dr. Janet F. Smith, Columbia State president
Dr. Janet F. Smith, Columbia State president, opened the ceremony by welcoming degree and certificate candidates, faculty, staff and guests.
“Today is a special day for several reasons,” Smith said. “First and foremost, it is a day of celebration of accomplishments. It is a day of recognition that these soon-to-be graduates set a goal and accomplished it.”
Smith introduced graduates Paula Mendoza and Sasha Erickson as the guest speakers for the spring commencement ceremonies. Mendoza delivered the commencement address for the first ceremony while Erickson delivered the address for the second ceremony.
Marshall County native Paula Mendoza graduated with an Associate of Applied Science degree in veterinary technology. During her time at Columbia State, she served as senator for the Student Government Association. She has also been a member of the Phi Theta Kappa and Sigma Kappa Delta honor societies. Mendoza was also selected as one of the Merck Animal Health Scholars. Next, she plans to obtain her license and become specialized.
For her address, Mendoza chose to focus on resilience. She applauded her classmates for continuing towards their goals amongst challenges.
“I got the opportunity to grow as a person and come out of my own shell, having the chance to get opportunities here at Columbia State to become what I am today,” Mendoza said.
Mendoza also highlighted her gratitude to everyone who stood by the graduates through these challenges.
“I want to encourage students here today to use the skills and knowledge learned here in the real world,” Mendoza said. “This is only the beginning of our chapter, and there is so much more to achieve, so go out there and be proud to say you’re a Columbia State alum, because we are the future.”
California native and Tennessee Promise student Sasha Erickson graduated Summa Cum Laude with an Associate of Science degree in computer science. During her time at Columbia State, she served as president and secretary/treasurer of the Student Government Association and is a member of the President’s Leadership Society. She is the recipient of the Mathematics Academic Discipline Award, Physics Academic Discipline Award, Academic Excellence, Leadership Award - Williamson Campus and the SGA Innovator Award. She was also selected as one of the finalists for the Carolyn Allred/Lewis Moore Outstanding Student Award. She plans to obtain her bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering and eventually earn her Ph.D.
For her address, Erickson chose to focus on memories and experience from her time at Columbia State. She described how she initially wanted to just get by, but found herself enjoying being involved on campus as well as her classes.
“I started to enjoy not only the clubs and events but to my surprise, my classes as well,” she said. “Now I stand before you, honored to have served as the Student Government president for this past academic year and to be able to speak to you all today, and cannot fathom the last two years without my time at this school.”
Erickson also encouraged her peers to enjoy the present, not just their end goals.
“Columbia State as a school truly is a community dedicated to supporting, uplifting and providing ample access to resources for all,” Erickson said. “If I had more than five minutes, I could take hours of your time thanking so many students, faculty and staff for making so much of an impact in my own life these past two years.”
Closing the ceremony, the alumni induction of new graduates at the first ceremony was presented by Dale Hobbs, Columbia State assistant professor of mathematics and Columbia State alum, and Andrew Yonts, Spring 2024 graduate. At the second ceremony, the alumni induction was presented by Tre’yana Ogilvie, Columbia State assistant director for records and registration and Columbia State alum, and Ryan Oneal Beard, Spring 2024 graduate and member of Phi Theta Kappa and TRiO.
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President’s Leadership Society graduates were also honored with a medallion at the commencement ceremony.
“The establishment of this society was based on the belief that leadership is inherent to our lives and that we all have leadership roles,” Smith said. “The President’s Leadership Society is open to all students at Columbia State and requires only their commitment to involvement for learning, participation and helping others.”
Formed in spring 2011, PLS is a free leadership training program focused on developing a student’s unique leadership skills from their first semester through graduation. The program focuses on participation in college-sponsored programs that promote educational attainment, career choices, volunteerism and civic responsibility.
During the course of the program, students attend a leadership retreat, enjoy exposure to the arts, participate in workshops and campus life, develop civic understanding and give back to the community through volunteerism.
Students received the President’s Leadership Society medallion for completing all requirements of the leadership training program prior to graduation. Throughout the program, students attend a leadership retreat, enjoy exposure to the arts, participate in workshops and campus life, develop civic understanding and give back to the community through service. Pictured (left to right): Tia Miller, Columbia State student development coordinator and President’s Leadership Society advisor; Tralisa Williams; Sasha Erickson; Hope Bone; and Dr. Janet F. Smith, Columbia State president.
Lawrenceburg native Ryan Oneal Beard graduated Summa Cum Laude as a Tennessee Promise student with a university parallel (general transfer) Associate of Science degree. During his time at Columbia State, he served as vice president of Phi Theta Kappa honor society and is a TRiO student. He is a recipient of the Biology Academic Discipline Award and Academic Excellence, as well as a Tennessee Board of Regents Student SOAR Nominee and an All-USA Academic Team Nominee. He is also the winner of the 2024 Carolyn Allred/Lewis Moore Outstanding Student Award. Next, he plans to attend University of Tennessee Knoxville to pursue a bachelor’s degree in civil/environmental engineering and eventually hopes to work at Oak Ridge National Laboratory. “Columbia State has been vital in shaping my future in several impactful ways,” he said. “It provided me with the opportunity to save money for my university tuition, allowing me to approach higher education with financial stability and confidence. It has also allowed me to cultivate good study habits and find my weaknesses and strengths in an environment dedicated to learning where I can speak to my professor for advice moving forward. Additionally, through various work opportunities in work-studies alongside experienced faculty, I gained invaluable real-world experience that has built up my skill set and prepared me for the professional landscape ahead to be an effective communicator, team player and encouraging peer. Columbia State is more than just a school; it's a community of incredible individuals dedicated to student success and personal growth.”
Lewisburg resident Hope Bone graduated with a university parallel (general transfer) Associate of Science degree. During her time at Columbia State, she served as secretary/treasurer and representative at-large of the Student Government Association and is a member of the President’s Leadership Society, as well as Phi Theta Kappa and Sigma Kappa Delta honor societies. She is the recipient of the SGA President’s Award. Her parents are also Columbia State alumni. Next, Bone plans to transfer to a university to complete a bachelor’s degree in computer science. “Columbia State helped me gain confidence in myself and my abilities while learning leadership skills that will help me for years to come,” she said. “It is truly a great place to start. I could not imagine anyone not taking advantage of this South-Central Tennessee treasure. A sense of community was fostered by student activities along with faculty and staff who took an interest in my success. Also, I am grateful for Dr. Smith, who truly cares about the student body.”
An Alabama native and Tennessee Reconnect student, Tralisa Williams graduated Cum Laude with an Associate of Science degree in criminal justice. A TRiO student, Williams is a member of the President’s Leadership Society, Phi Theta Kappa honor society, Student Veterans of America and the Veterans Student Organization. Next, she plans to transfer to Middle Tennessee State University to pursue a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice and eventually pursue a career in law enforcement. “My favorite thing about Columbia State is the supportive and engaging learning environment it provides,” she said. “The faculty and staff genuinely care about students' success and go above and beyond to ensure that students receive a quality education. Whether it's through interactive classroom discussions, hands-on learning experiences or personalized mentorship, there's a strong sense of dedication to helping students thrive academically and professionally. This supportive atmosphere creates a positive and motivating space where students can explore their interests, develop new skills and prepare for their future careers with confidence.”
Brentwood resident Zaid Aguilar graduated Summa Cum Laude with an Associate of Science degree in computer science. A Tennessee Promise student, Aguilar served as the Williamson Campus senator of the Student Government Association. He is a recipient of the Computer Science Academic Discipline Award and Academic Excellence. Next, Aguilar plans to continue his education in computer science at Middle Tennessee State University. “I believe that Columbia State has allowed me to get out of my comfort zone mentally,” he said. “The classes at Columbia State have allowed me to think critically about the subjects I am covering. The Student Government Association has allowed me to develop skills in leadership and planning. In addition, working as a tutor has allowed me to more deeply understand the subjects that I have previously learned.”
Columbia native Mira Secrest Hilliard graduated with a university parallel (general transfer) Associate of Science degree. A Tennessee Reconnect student, Hilliard also holds a Legal Assistant diploma and a State Life Insurance license in Tennessee. She initially attended Columbia State after high school and played on the women’s basketball team but did not complete her degree. While she has taken classes intermittently over the years, recently she had the desire to complete her degree to support her in her role as a human resources professional. Hilliard hails from a long line of Columbia State alumni, including her sisters Felecia Secrest Braden and Dr. Christa Martin, Columbia State executive director of belonging and student resources. Next, she plans to pursue her Biblical degree in practical theology. “One of the main reasons why I wanted to return to school was to finish what I started,” she said. “I feel that if I am someone who can go back to school and finish, others will know it is possible for them. My message to the younger generation will have more merit to it and give them hope that anything is possible for them. I want family and friends to know that hard work does pay off and anything you strive to accomplish is possible.”
Columbia native Seivynn Teran graduated with an Associate of Applied Science degree in nursing. She is a member of National Student Nurse Association and the Student Veterans Organization. Her brother, Chase Phagan is also a Columbia State alum. Next, she plans to begin her career at St. Thomas Rutherford Hospital in Murfreesboro. “Columbia State set me up to be prepared to take the state boards for nursing with a high chance of passing the first time,” she said. “It’s a great start and stepping stone to the future.”
Florida native Brynley Childers graduated Cum Laude with an Associate of Science degree in graphic design. A Tennessee Promise and dual enrollment student, she served as secretary/treasurer and vice president of the Student Government Association. Childers is also a recipient of the Art Academic Discipline Award. Next, she plans to transfer to Middle Tennessee State University to earn her bachelor’s degree in graphic design and eventually hopes to pursue a career in Motorsports. “I have loved my time here at Columbia State and I am proud to now become an alum,” she said. “From my first days and joining SGA to meeting some of my greatest friends and colleagues, I have really enjoyed my time here. Columbia State has been a place for me to grow, learn and meet new people and opportunities.”
Loretto native Lindsay Dixon graduated Summa Cum Laude with an Associate of Science degree in psychology. A Tennessee Promise and dual enrollment student, Dixon was a member of Phi Theta Kappa honor society and awarded Academic Excellence. Her uncle, Michael Hollman, is also a Columbia State alum. Next, Dixon plans to go to school to become a nail technician. “The number one thing I tell people when they ask about my experience at Columbia State, I tell them everyone there wants you to be successful,” she said. “There are so many resources and, in my experience, everyone was always happy to help with any questions I had. Also, all the faculty were so kind and super friendly when approached. Even if they were busy, they always stopped what they were doing to help a student.”
Franklin native and Tennessee Promise student Adam Jackson graduated with an Associate of Science in Teaching degree in secondary education – social studies. Next, he plans to transfer to Middle Tennessee State University to complete his bachelor’s degree and eventually become a history teacher. He hopes to one day earn his Ph.D. in order to become a college history professor. “I’d recommend Columbia State to anybody who wants to further their education or wants to go back to school,” he said. “It’s a great introduction to college without all the giant fees. It’s a wonderful campus with a kind atmosphere with caring professors who want to see you succeed. The staff is great and it’s an overall great experience to become a Columbia State Charger. My journey here has been absolutely fantastic, and I wouldn’t trade my experience for the world. Thank you to all my professors that have helped me every day.”
Loretto native Tabias Sirmones graduated with a university parallel (general transfer) Associate of Science degree. A Tennessee Promise and dual enrollment student, Sirmones decided to attend Columbia State when he was offered a basketball scholarship. Next, he plans to join the State Trooper Academy and eventually work for the State of Tennessee. “Columbia State has professors that want to see you get better every day,” he said. “If you have trouble with an assignment, the professor will talk you through the steps to complete it, and will help you with anything you ask.”
Franklin native Heidi Thomas graduated Summa Cum Laude with an Associate of Arts degree in foreign language with a concentration in Spanish. During her time at Columbia State, she served as a tutor in the Tutoring and Learning Center, and was also a member of Phi Theta Kappa and Sigma Kappa Delta honor societies. Her sister, Lydia Thomas, is also a Columbia State alum. Next, Thomas plans to transfer to Lipscomb University to complete her bachelor’s degree and hopes to teach abroad and eventually become a translator. “When I graduated high school, I didn’t know what I wanted to do,” she said. “I had aspirations and ideas of what I wanted my future to look like, but I struggled to feel confident to pursue my goals. Despite my fears, I decided to take the next right step of attending Columbia State to pursue my goals. I could not be happier that I chose to start my future here. It has taught me numerous valuable lessons that have given me the courage to step forward into the next chapter of my life. From my time spent in classes to learning abroad in Spain, Columbia State has equipped me with everything I need to leap into the future. I enrolled here unsure of what I was capable of and what my future would look like, but now I feel so ready and excited to pursue my goals and march into my future! I cannot say thank you enough to Columbia State, my professors, my classmates, the admissions advisors and everyone in between who made the last two years some of the most instrumental years of my life.”
Alabama native Tori Spears graduated with an Associate of Science in Teaching degree in elementary education (K-5). During her time at Columbia State, she has been a member of Sigma Kappa Delta honor society and a member of the softball team. Spears plans to transfer to Athens State University to complete her bachelor’s degree and eventually her master’s degree. “I feel like Columbia State has prepared me in the sense of holding me accountable and good time management skills,” she said. “The atmosphere and administration are welcoming. I have enjoyed my experience at Columbia State. The instructors have been nothing but helpful, as well as the advisors.”
Washington native Kori Harshman graduated Cum Laude with an Associate of Science degree in pre-physical therapy. During her time at Columbia State, she was a member of the women’s soccer team. Next, she plans to transfer to Dakota Wesleyan University in South Dakota to eventually complete her master’s degree and become a certified athletic trainer. “I chose Columbia State because I thought I would be introduced to new cultures that I hadn’t yet been exposed to since I grew up in the Pacific Northwest and was never exposed to much outside of my hometown,” she said. “Another reason I chose Columbia State was because when I visited, I fell in love with the town of Columbia, and all the staff that I had spoken and interacted with were all so nice. I just knew that it was going to be a great experience coming here. Columbia State did a great job at preparing me for my future. They provided me with a great foundation for successful studying habits, and overall, just how to be a good student and person overall. The staff have always been so helpful when it comes to becoming a better student and are always looking for opportunities to help their students thrive.”
Nashville native Samantha Haviland graduated with an Associate of Applied Science degree in veterinary technology. While she holds a bachelor’s degree in psychology, she chose to return to school to pursue her lifelong passion for animals in veterinary science. She has accepted a one-year internship at the University of Tennessee Knoxville College of Veterinary Medicine, which only accepts six students a year. “Columbia State has the best veterinary technology program in the state,” she said. “It is fully AVMA-accredited. Their students boast the highest VTNE pass rate of any other program in Tennessee. Columbia State has passionate teachers, an abundance of resources and a complete academic pathway for its veterinary technician students.”
Florida native Skylar Collins graduated with a university parallel (general transfer) Associate of Science degree. During her time at Columbia State, she served as historian for Sigma Kappa Delta honor society. Next, she plans to transfer to Middle Tennessee State University to earn a bachelor’s degree in English and eventually hopes to become a professor. “The invaluable experiences and friends I have made have truly helped pave the way for a brighter future for me,” she said. “Without the support of professors like Dr. Hall and Dr. Evans, I likely wouldn’t be as driven, happy or inspired to continue my academic career. I plan to become a professor like those who inspired me before so I can be just like them. Columbia State has provided me with amazing experiences that I will carry with me for the rest of my life.”
Shelbyville native Anna Grace Magee graduated with an Associate of Applied Science degree in veterinary technology. A Tennessee Promise and dual enrollment student, she is a member of the Tennessee Veterinary Technicians Association and the Student Chapter National Association of Veterinary Technicians in America. She has held internships at Lewisburg Animal Hospital, Fayetteville Animal Hospital and Tennessee Equine Hospital Main. Next, she plans to transfer to Middle Tennessee State University to complete her bachelor’s degree in agriculture animal science and eventually hopes to attend veterinary school. “I really like my program and the friends I’ve met there,” she said. “It almost feels like a family—very family oriented. I really enjoyed anatomy with Dr. Anderson. I think that was my favorite class out of all of them.”
Mt. Pleasant resident Keele Owen graduated with an Associate of Applied Science degree in respiratory care. A Tennessee Promise student, she is a member of Sigma Kappa Delta honor society, the American Association for Respiratory Care and the Tennessee Society for Respiratory Care. Her mother, brother and sister are also Columbia State alumni. Next, she plans to begin her career as a respiratory therapist and eventually transfer to a university to complete a bachelor’s degree in psychology. “I wouldn’t be here if my family and friends didn’t push me to finish,” she said. “These past three years have been great and I would recommend Columbia State to anyone, especially the Respiratory Care program. I have learned so much here that has prepared me for my future.”
Shelbyville native Jonathan Quick graduated Summa Cum Laude with an Associate of Science degree in business administration. A first-generation college graduate, he has been deployed in the military and working as a truck driver with his commercial driver’s license during his time at Columbia State. Next, Quick will be deployed again, but he hopes to eventually complete his bachelor’s and his master’s degree. “This semester especially all my teachers have worked with me really well,” he said. “There are times during deployment that I can’t meet deadlines for whatever reason, so they were really helpful. While I’ve done all online classes, they have been extremely helpful.”
