SANFORD, N.C. - A total of 153 people are the most recent graduates of the Central Carolina Community College's Continuing Education Health and Professional Services Programs, which held its graduation on Dec. 13 at the Dennis A. Wicker Civic & Conference Center.

The certificate areas include Cardiovascular Monitor Technician, Gerontology, Introduction: Medical Sonography, Medical Billing and Coding, Nurse Aide I, Pharmacy Technician, Phlebotomy Technician, Rehabilitation Technician, and Therapeutic Massage II.

Charity Hilton, a Nurse Aide I graduate from Harnett County, was one of the student speakers. "I always knew I wanted to go into the medical field, but after this Nurse Aide course I am even more inspired and motivated to take the next steps in my journey by becoming a RN," she said. "This class showed me ... to remember that every patient I meet is also a person with their own life and their own story. I can be a light to these people in what may be a dark time."

Azaria Mason-Pender, a Nurse Aide I graduate from Chatham County, also was a student speaker. "Congratulations to all of you for reaching your milestone. Today marks the end of the long journey that we have shared together. ... I am very proud of my fellow classmates for pushing each other for this moment," she said. "May we cross paths again in the future."

Gregory Singleton, CCCC Dean of Workforce Development and Continuing Education Programs, introduced the student speakers.

Invocation was by Dr. Jon Matthews, Provost, Harnett County. Welcoming remarks were by Dr. Mark Hall, Provost, Chatham County.

Introduction of Faculty was by Bev Brock, CCCC Nurse Aide I/Health Programs Coordinator.

The presentation of students was by Felicia Crittenden, CCCC Dean of Workforce Development and Continuing Education Operations.

CCCC President Dr. Lisa M. Chapman presented certificates to the graduates.

Jason Haskins, CCCC Director of Health and Professional Programs, led the Health Occupations Pledge.

Margaret Roberton, CCCC Vice President for Workforce Development, had closing remarks. "Central Carolina Community College wishes you the best now and into your future careers," she said.

To learn more about Central Carolina Community College and its programs, visit www.cccc.edu.