East Arkansas Community College held the forty-first annual Commencement Ceremony for the graduating class of 2016 in the Fine Arts Center Auditorium on Friday, May 6th. 190 graduates in 25 academic and technical programs received certificates and diplomas.

Earlier in the day, EACC held the annual Honors Breakfast in recognition of students for their academic achievements at EACC.  Brycial Williams of Wynne was recognized as the 2016 Distinguished Alumnus. Jesse Bouland served as the Honor Graduate representative.

The Associate of Applied Science Nursing program held the annual Pinning Ceremony for fifteen graduates of the Nursing Program at 3:00 p.m. in the Fine Arts Center Auditorium. 

A variety of degrees were awarded at the Commencement Ceremony including: Associate of Arts, Associate of Science degrees in Business and Criminal Justice, Associate of Applied Science degrees in Administrative Office Technology, Criminal Justice, Medical Assisting Technology, Nursing, and Radiologic Technology.  Certificates awarded were: Certificate in General Studies, Technical Certificates in Advanced Emergency Medical Technology, Criminal Justice, Health Professions, Office Technology, and Renewable Energy Technology. Certificates of Proficiency awarded were: Criminal Justice, Diesel Technology, Medical Professions Education, and Renewable Energy Technology.

Dr. Coy Grace, EACC President welcomed the large crowd to the Commencement ceremonies. Honor Graduate Jerry Stegall, Jr. served as the Student Speaker and Dr. Janie Bailey, Vice President for Academic Affairs, presented the candidates as Dr. Coy Grace conferred the degrees. 

Honor Graduate Jerry Stegall, Jr. addresses his graduating class during the 2016 Commencement ceremony.

EACC students pose for pictures as they processed into the Fine Arts Center Auditorium for the 2016 Commencement Ceremony.

Dr. Coy Grace, EACC President, presents diploma to Meredith Bowers. Bowers graduated Cum Laude with an Associate of Applied Science degree in Nursing.