BECKLEY, WV (LOOTPRESS) – New River Community and Technical College marked a milestone on Sunday, May 18, celebrating the achievements of its Class of 2025 during a commencement ceremony at the Beckley-Raleigh County Convention Center.
Approximately 300 graduates were honored during the event, surrounded by proud families, friends, faculty, and staff.
The diverse graduating class included first-generation college students, military veterans, and—for the first time—graduates from the college’s new Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) and Surgical Technology programs.
The ceremony also highlighted the accomplishments of dual enrollment high school students who earned college degrees before receiving their high school diplomas.
These students completed their credentials through partnerships between New River CTC, the Mercer County Technical Education Center, and the Nicholas County School System.
Former Chick-fil-A franchise owner Richard Jarrell delivered the keynote address, emphasizing perseverance, servant leadership, and self-investment.
Dr. Brandon Mills, Department Chair of Business and Computers, shared remarks on behalf of the faculty, encouraging graduates to lead with integrity and passion.
Representing the student body, Physical Therapist Assistant program graduate Richard Perkins offered a moving speech reflecting on the resilience and determination of the graduating class.
“Commencement is always a powerful reminder of why we do what we do,” said Dr. Bonny Ball Copenhaver, President of New River Community and Technical College.
“Each student who crosses the stage represents a story of perseverance, purpose, and potential. It’s an honor to support their journeys and to watch them step into the future they’ve worked so hard to build.”
