FTCC celebrated its 63rd Annual Commencement Exercises on May 26, 2025, at the Crown Coliseum. [Photo by Brad Lost]
Fayetteville Technical Community College celebrated the achievements of 2,438 graduates Friday, recognizing the Class of 2025 in two ceremonies held at the Crown Coliseum.
Graduates from programs in Allied Health Technologies, Funeral Services, Nursing, College & Career Readiness, Business and Computer Information Technologies crossed the stage during the morning ceremony. The afternoon ceremony honored graduates from Arts & Humanities, Math & Sciences, Public Service and Engineering & Applied Technology.
Cumberland County Board of Commissioners Chairman Kirk deViere delivered the keynote address at each ceremony. He noted that the graduating class — made up of people from all walks of life and sharing a goal of improvement through education — was a reflection of the local community.
“You represent the true fabric of our community,” deViere said. “Some of you came here directly from high school, eager to begin your professional journey. Others returned to education after years in the workforce, balancing family responsibilities, full time jobs, and course work with remarkable determination. And nearly a quarter of you are military-connected, bringing a unique perspective and experiences from Fort Bragg and beyond.”
DeViere issued a challenge to the graduates. Though their accomplishments might open doors to them at any number of economic centers around the country, deViere encouraged them to consider reinvesting their skills and knowledge back into their local community in Cumberland County and the wider region.
“Many communities would welcome you with open arms. They would lay out the red carpet and show you the best of who you are,” he said. “But I ask you to consider the profound impact you could have right here in Cumberland County or right here in the state of North Carolina.
“Understand and know that your presence matters. Your skills matter, and your ideas matter. When talented individuals like yourselves remain in or return to our community, you create a talent density that attracts investment. You generate the creative friction that sparks innovation.”
FTCC President Dr. Mark Sorrells shakes hands with a graduate during FTCC’s 63rd Annual Commencement Exercises on May 16, 2025. [Photo by Brad Losh]
FTCC President Dr. Mark Sorrells presided over the ceremonies, awarding more than 3,919 associate degrees, diplomas and certificates to the Class of 2025. Among those earning associate degrees, 775 students graduated with Honors and an additional 210 earned Highest Honors.
Sorrells applauded the students for completing a hard-earned achievement.
“Your commitment, perseverance, dedication and hard work have brought you to this milestone,” he said. “You started this journey with a goal, and today, you stand as proof of that commitment and drive to succeed. Your accomplishments are not just personal triumphs. They elevate you as future leaders for our community and state.”
Sorrells encourages the graduates to continue their education journey to maintain their preparedness for the ever-evolving career market.
“By embracing lifelong learning, you will remain agile and be equipped to adapt to and benefit from the challenges and opportunities that derive from an evolving economic landscape,” Sorrells said. “We are immensely proud of you and encourage you to keep growing, evolving and investing in your future.”
Two students were honored with individual awards recognizing exceptional achievements.
Jeff-Michael Fowe received the N.C. Community College System’s Academic Excellence Award. He graduated with double associate degrees in Science and Engineering and will attend N.C. State in the fall on the prestigious Goodnight Scholarship.
Dori Winters, who graduated with an associate degree in Polysomnography, earned the McLean President’s Award. The honor is given by the FTCC Foundation to a student selected by a committee of faculty and staff members.
