TASSELS TURNED

College celebrates more than 250 graduates at recognition ceremony

Construction management student David Knight III is the first in his family to graduate from college.

David Knight III of Raleigh is the first in his family to graduate from college. He did so Friday, receiving his degree from the East Carolina University’s College of Engineering and Technology.

He was among the students who marched at the college’s 2019 Fall Recognition Ceremony at the Main Campus Student Center. Overall, more than 250 graduates received their bachelor’s and master’s degrees in fields such as computer science, engineering and technology systems.

Knight, who received his degree in construction management and will work as a field engineer for Hess Construction in Maryland, described his time at ECU as “a lot of learning, a lot of connections, not just in industry but friendships.” He said he would like to thank ECU for the guidance during his college career and the opportunity to meet people from all walks of life.

Brent Hemmings, an Army veteran who works full time for Daimler, completed his degree online. He described ECU as having “a great online program and catering to somebody who can’t do traditional college.”

Construction management graduate Cole Hobbs

Another online industrial technology graduate, Lisa Stanley, completed her degree while working for Novo Nordisk in Clayton and after receiving a two-year degree from Johnston Community College.

“It was an easy transition from the associate degree program,” she said. About the only time she came to campus before graduation was for elective theater classes, she said.

Cole Hobbs of Wilmington, another construction management graduate, has a job in his hometown with East Coast Construction. He joked that he was surprised to be at graduation and that college held a lot of good times for him.

“Thanks for the memories,” he said.

Dr. Harry Ploehn, dean of the college, thanked the students, their families and supporters, and the faculty and staff.

“We’re all looking forward to see what comes next for you,” Ploehn said. “Stay in touch with us because we’ll always be here to help you. We have every reason to believe you will triumph in your next Pirate adventure.”

Graduates sit during the College of Engineering and Technology Recognition Ceremony on Friday at the Main Campus Student Center.

College of Engineering and Technology graduates pose for a picture on the steps of the Main Campus Student Center.