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Achievements Praised At MGCC Graduation
Mountain Gateway Community College celebrated the 152 members of the class of 2024 during its annual commencement last Friday evening on the Clifton Forge campus.
MGCC President Dr. John Rainone delivered a welcome address to the class of 2024, along with their many family and friends, acknowledging and celebrating their accomplishments.
“As we gather here today to celebrate the achievements of our graduates, I am filled with immense pride and joy,” Rainone said. “Today marks a significant milestone in your journey. You have worked tirelessly, overcome obstacles, and demonstrated unwavering dedication to reach this moment. Your hard work and perseverance have paid off, and you stand here today as graduates of our esteemed institution.”
Katie Shofstahl later took the stage as the student speaker. During her time at MGCC, she has been a member of MGCC’s Timber Sports team and has been an active member of Phi Theta Kappa since 2021, serving as MGCC’s chapter president as well as the vice president and president for the Virginia/West Virginia region. She also won this year’s National Institute for Staff and Organizational Development Student Essay Contest.
Shofstahl’s experiences at MGCC have helped her develop strong leadership skills that she will carry with her as she pursues her future goals. She plans to transfer to Old Dominion University to pursue a bachelor’s degree in career and technical Education.
Following her speech, Dr. Ben Worth presented the 2024 Gary Lee Miller Outstanding Graduate Award to LaShonda Ochieng. The award honors 1st Lt. Gary Lee Miller, a Covington native who was killed in action in Vietnam.
Ochieng earned an associate’s degree in business management with a specialization in administrative support and distinguished herself through her academic achievements, leadership skills, and commitment to community service during her time as a student at MGCC. She was recently recognized for her academic performance by being named to the president’s list for the fall 2023 semester. She has been involved in extracurricular activities during her time at MGCC and has been an active community member.
Chris Fisher, a lifelong resident of the Alleghany Highlands, was then honored with the 2024 Distinguished Alumni Award and served as featured speaker at this year’s commencement ceremony.
Fisher is a captain at the Alleghany County Sheriff’s Office and oversees several programs. He has also volunteered in the community for many years and has received numerous awards and achievements throughout his career.
“No matter what tomorrow holds for you, please remember the following … Keep your faith, enjoy life with family and friends, and be sure to take a break every now and then. In some way that’s best for you, give back to the community … and remember with God, all things are possible,” Fisher told the graduates.
In his closing remarks, Rainone shared more information about the hard work of the class of 2024. Many high school students graduated this year - 76 to be exact - earning 107 credentials, certificates and degrees. More than 380 workforce credentials were awarded. Sixty-two percent of the class received an associate degree; 35% of the class started with MGCC through high school dual enrollment; 75% of the class paid no tuition thanks to scholarships or the G3 program; 76% of the class are already employed or have plans to transfer to a fouryear university immediately; and more than 90% of students who applied to a four-year institution had already been accepted.
“As you step into the world beyond these walls, do so with confidence, courage, and an unwavering commitment to excellence. The future is yours to shape, and I have no doubt that you will make us proud,” Rainone said.
Registration for the summer and fall semesters at MGCC is underway. Call (540) 863-2820 for more information.
