The Denmark Technical College campus was filled with pride and inspiration as graduates crossed the stage at the college’s 76th annual commencement ceremony, held in the McDuffie Student Life Center. Family, friends, faculty and alumni joyfully gathered to celebrate the achievements of the Class of 2025.
The college conferred 335 associate degrees, certificates and diplomas, marking a powerful milestone in the lives of students who have persevered through challenges and embraced their educational journey at one of South Carolina’s proudest HBCUs.
Willie L. Todd Jr., Ph.D., president and CEO, who presided over the event, praised the graduates for their accomplishments.
“Our graduates are not just walking across a stage. They are stepping into legacy. Each one is proof of what happens when a college commits to engage, educate and empower students from all walks of life,” said Dr. Todd. “They arrived with potential and they’re leaving with purpose. Whether they’re heading into the workforce or transferring to four-year institutions, they are prepared to lead and they carry with them the spirit of an HBCU that believes in bold dreams and bright futures.”
Renowned actor and comedian Brandon T. Jackson delivered an inspiring keynote address that inspired both graduates and guests. Known for his roles in Percy Jackson & the Olympians: The Lightning Thief, Tropic Thunder, Family Business: New Orleans, 8 Mile and Roll Bounce, Jackson shared his personal journey with humor, humility and heart. He encouraged students to pursue purpose and concluded the ceremony with a moving benediction that left the audience both inspired and uplifted.
One especially moving moment came when dozens of Denmark Tech alumni, led by National Alumni Association President and Area Commissioner James W. Bowden Sr., gathered at the front of the auditorium for the annual alumni salute. In a show of unity, the National Alumni Association welcomed the Class of 2025 into its ranks and encouraged them to carry forward a tradition of leadership, service and lifelong connection to their alma mater.
During the ceremony, Joshua Horn was honored as the valedictorian of the Class of 2025, earning the highest academic distinction for their exceptional performance and commitment to excellence throughout their time at Denmark Tech.Ashlynn Watkins was recognized as the salutatorian, holding the second-highest academic ranking.
Several members of the Denmark Tech community were acknowledged for recent accomplishments including Patrick Scipio, director of admissions and recruitment and head men’s basketball coach, DTC SCTEA Staff of the Year Award; Debbie Spells-Wilson, nursing instructor, DTC SCTEA Faculty of the Year Award; and Leslie Holman-Brooks, dean of student success, DTC SCTEA Administrator of the Year Award.
The 2025 Presidential Citation was awarded to Rodney Bond, chief of police, and Amy Roper, director of public information and marketing, for their exceptional contributions to the campus community.
A. Ronald Sanders was named Distinguished Alumnus of the Year in honor of his remarkable generosity and enduring commitment to student success, including the establishment of a $100,000 endowed scholarship to benefit future Denmark Tech engineering students.
Landon Young was presented with the Student Presidential Achievement Award, recognizing his outstanding leadership and academic excellence.
“I’m truly honored to receive this award,” said Young. “Denmark Tech has given me the tools to build the future I’ve been working toward and the confidence I need to achieve it. I’m leaving here with more than a degree. I’m leaving with direction and purpose.”
Among the graduates was Jake Wight, Mister Denmark Technical College, who earned an associate degree in business administration while serving as a student-athlete and campus leader. He will continue his education and basketball career at Columbia College.
“Denmark Tech challenged me to grow and pushed me to lead,” said Wight. “I will always remember the college that gave me the foundation to move forward with confidence and ambition.”
The ceremony closed with a sense of pride and excitement as graduates prepared to take their next steps.
“This is what it means to forge onward. We are not just celebrating individual success. We are witnessing the impact of a well-rounded education,” said Todd. “These graduates represent the next generation of innovators, caregivers, leaders and changemakers. They are equipped, empowered and ready. Wherever they go from here, they will take a piece of Denmark Tech with them.”
