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...A Vietnam vet was approached years after serving by the man who packed the parachute that carried him safely to the ground, though he was a prisoner for a number of years, Ron Jackson, commissioner of the Technical College System of Georgia, told Coosa Valley Technical College graduates Thursday night.
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“This man thought about (meeting him) for several days and the thoughtfulness in taking the time and energy to pack the parachute, especially for no glory or recognition,” said Jackson, commencement speaker for the spring graduation. “And that is the point of the story. Faculty, staff, parents, friends, children have helped to pack your parachute, which is often the foundation given to you to be successful.
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Anthony Robinson, 9, and his sister Christina, 8, get their cameras ready as both their mother and aunt prepare to graduate. (William T. Martin / Rome News-Tribune) |
gallery of the graduation ceremony.
“Graduates, celebrate your accomplishments and the people supporting you,” he added.
Jackson also talked about pursuing goals.
“Many of you (may have) never thought you would come to college but came here to try, and here you are tonight,” he said. “Don’t ever be afraid to try because this is not the end of the road — look at other goals and set your sights soaring. Attitude is everything, and you are all winners tonight.”
About 256 students walked across the stage during Thursday night’s graduation to collect a variety of degrees.
Tamias Ragland of Rome was excited after his walk across the stage. Ragland, who worked third shift while going to school, hugged his daughter after receiving his diploma in carpentry. He said Jackson was inspiring.
“He really touched a lot of students tonight because people want to hear good things when they are pursuing their dreams,” said Ragland. “I’m looking at future goals, and I’m proud of myself.”
Ragland said he wants to pursue his trade but would like to go back to school for contracting work.
Click here for a previous story about CVTC graduate Christy Haselgrove.
Another graduate, Kim Durham of Lyerly, attended both the Floyd and Gordon campuses to earn an associate’s degree in radiologic technology. She will be following Jackson’s advice to pursue higher goals as well as being grateful for her family’s support.
“I worked full-time and have two kids. The parachute was right (because) without my family and friends, I couldn’t have done it,” she said, adding she may go back to school to study nuclear medicine or nursing in addition to radiology. “I’m relieved this part of my journey is done — but excited.”
