Lanier Technical College held its annual High School Equivalency Graduation Thursday.
The graduation was for the school's Adult Education program, which allows adults to complete their secondary education by earning GED or HiSET diplomas.
A release from Lanier Tech said 367 students earned their credentials in the past year with 132 marching on stage at Thursday's ceremony at the school's Ramsey Conference Center. Several public figures were at the ceremony, including Jackson County Sheriff Janis Mangum, who served as the keynote speaker.
“Believe me when I tell you that earning your GED will change your life! I know it changed mine," Mangum said. "From here on out, the sky is the limit to what you can do. I encourage each of you to continue your education to further your growth potential in the future."
The school also awarded the program's Exceptional Adult Georgian in Literacy Education Student of the Year award to Summer Barnhart. Barnhart earned her GED and marched in the ceremony.
Lanier Tech President Tim McDonald also spoke during the ceremony and said it was an exciting time for both the students and the school.
“This annual event is one of the most inspiring events we hold at Lanier Technical College, and, with achieving this milestone, these graduates have improved the course of their lives forever,” McDonald said.
