On Dec. 17, students from all three campuses of Copiah-Lincoln Community College were represented at the 2014 fall commencement services.

Ronnie Nettles, Co-Lin president, welcomed past and present students, faculty and staff to the ceremony and heartily congratulated the newest graduates.

“You should all be very proud,” Nettles said.

The commencement service in the Mullen Gymnasium boasted over 120 former students who, although they had their own unique journey, all had one milestone in common: the completion of their education at Co-Lin.

The graduation invocation, led by Nicholas Beasley, was said as attendees bowed their heads. The Pledge of Allegiance, led by Nicholas Luckey, followed by the prayer and Jane Hulon, Instructional Services Vice-president, voiced the welcome and introductions.

Hulon shared, “Due to the number of graduates each year at the term of the conclusion of the fall term, the college began holding a December graduation ceremony a few years ago. Unlike the individual May ceremonies, this graduation exercise includes graduates from all three campuses.”

For Joseph “Joey” Sills, his recent graduation with an associate’s degree in applied science and automation control meant more than a feeling of mere accomplishment to him in the long run.

“College is the mid-point in life between thinking you know what you want while in high school and knowing what you need in the real world,” Sills added.

Sills was very active in students service programs and clubs at the college during his years at Co-Lin. He was a part of the Centurion History Club, Sojourners and the Blue Wave Show Band. He also loves Spongebob.

“Co-Lin was a major part of my life. For five and a half years, it was pretty much my home,” Sills shared.

The diplomas were presented by Nettles along with Eugene Bates, chairman of the Co-Lin Board of Trustees.

“We celebrate this educational milestone with each and every Co-Lin graduate,” Hulon said.

Nettles said on behalf of all involved at Co-Lin, “We take great pride in what you have accomplished.”