On July 30, Vance-Granville Community College proudly hosted the 2025 Medical Assisting Diploma Pinning Ceremony at its Henderson Civic Center. The event honored the accomplishments of the graduating class, highlighting both academic success and the personal resilience of each student.
Dr. Mercedes Kamoru, Program Head for Medical Assisting, presided over the ceremony, delivering remarks that emphasized community, purpose, and perseverance. Dean of Health Sciences Dr. Angela Thomas welcomed guests on behalf of college leadership, and graduate Amber Bolton shared powerful remarks about overcoming adversity and continuing to reach higher.
Dr. Kamoru also delivered the inspirational address and presented three special awards:
- Delia Escobar Rodriguez received the Above & Beyond Award for her outstanding peer support and leadership.
- Moriah Hall received the Trailblazer Award as the first Career & College Promise (CCP) student to complete the program. She also received the Academic Achievement Award for highest GPA.
Ms. Tonia Randolph, Medical Assisting Adjunct Instructor, assisted with the awarding of pins and led the recitation of the AAMA Medical Assisting Creed. Graduates were formally pinned in front of family and friends. Additionally, graduates Makayla Cox and Katelyn Closs were honored in their absence.
Vice President of Instruction & Student Services and Chief Academic Officer, Dr. Kim Sepich, delivered the closing remarks, commending the graduates for their perseverance and growth throughout the program. She reminded them that while the journey required strength and sacrifice, they are now well-equipped with the knowledge, skills, and character to make meaningful contributions in the healthcare field.
We appreciate everyone who has supported these students on their journeys. Those who could not attend the ceremony in person may view the event’s livestream on the College’s YouTube page.
Words of Thanks
VGCC Career Services hosted a mini career fair following the ceremony, offering graduates opportunities to connect with local healthcare employers. Special thanks to Granville Health System, Maria Parham – Women’s Care, and Wisdom Senior Care for supporting our graduates and sharing career opportunities.
Special thanks to Chef Kyle Wilkerson, Program Head of Vance-Granville’s Culinary Arts program, for preparing and hosting the celebratory brunch that followed the ceremony.
VGCC Medical Assisting Class of 2025
The 2025 Medical Assisting graduates represent the excellence and opportunity made possible through VGCC’s commitment to student success and workforce development in healthcare:
- Tiana Alston
- Chandler Beasley*
- Katelyn Closs
- Makayla Cox*
- Alyssa Donahue-Krise*
- Delia Escobar Rodriguez*
- Marian Gerges
- Moriah Hall*
- Simon Hildreth
- Nakayla Purnell
- Katlyn Singleton
* Indicates graduates who had already passed the national certification exam through the American Association of Medical Assistants (AAMA) and were officially Certified Medical Assistants at the time of the pinning ceremony.
