Columbus Technical College presented degrees, diplomas and technical certificates of credit at its bi-annual graduation ceremony last Thursday at the Columbus Civic Center. The President and CEO of the Greater Columbus Chamber of Commerce, Brian Anderson, was the guest speaker.
 
One graduate in particular, 25 year old Breanna Sanders, will be sporting an extra bright smile when she walks across the stage. Breanna graduated from Central High School in 2008 and will be the first in her immediate family to complete college. Besides her immediate family of four siblings and her parents, an additional 5-6 family members and loved ones are expected to be in the crowd to cheer her on Thursday.
 
When Breanna started the dental hygiene program about two years ago, she was holding down a full time job in retail and soon realized something had to give.
 
“The work load at Columbus Tech was incredible,” Sanders said. “I had to switch to part time and move in with my mom.”
 
The program director for dental hygiene, Becky Foster, recalls how Breanna transformed into a phenomenal student.
 
“She had a tough time for a minute there,” Foster remembered. “But we knew she really was a good academic student and just needed was a little extra encouragement. Breanna made up lost ground and then some – even earning the Emile T Fisher Dental Scholarship that semester.”
 
Despite the roadblocks, Breanna Sanders says she wouldn’t trade her time at Columbus Technical College for anything.
 
“The experience was great and amazing. I wouldn’t trade it for the world,” Sanders said. “It made me stronger and I realized I can do just about anything. Our instructors were so reliable, helpful and responsive. We could contact them any time of the day or night and our class grew as a family; we’re sisters.”
 
Sanders already has a part time job lined up in her chosen field; she starts work Monday. Breanna Sanders hopes to eventually use her new skills and education to work in a public health setting to educate the underprivileged about the importance of oral health.
 
A total of 412 students have met the academic requirements needed to graduate at the spring commencement ceremony and, since January of this year, an additional 56 individuals have passed their GED exams given by the College. Many of those students will be walking at the graduation and have already enrolled at Columbus Technical College to further their education.
 
Columbus Technical College boasts a 99.2% job placement rate for its graduates and is always accepting applications. Students can apply online at www.columbustech.edu or call 706-649-1800. Registration for fall semester starts July 11.