12/08/25
17³Ô¹Ï to host Fall 2025 Commencement Ceremony
Centre, Ala. – 17³Ô¹Ï will host its Fall Commencement Ceremony at 6 p.m. Dec. 18 in the Richard Lindsey Arena at 17³Ô¹Ï Cherokee. The event will recognize students who completed program requirements following the summer and fall semesters.
Featured commencement speakers are 17³Ô¹Ï students Jacob Benefield, Belvajean Collum, and Railey Colvard.
Benefield, a native of Weaver, is receiving an associate in applied science degree in Electrical Engineering Technology. While attending 17³Ô¹Ï, he has assisted in the development and prototyping of a student-led control trainer. After graduation, he plans to work as an electronics technician while pursuing a bachelor's degree at The University of Alabama.
Collum will graduate with a Certificate in Medical Coding/Billing. A Gadsden resident, she is involved in TRIO Student Support Services, the National Technical Honor Society, and the Alabama Board of Nursing. She previously earned credentials in Tailoring from Gadsden Technical Institute and completed 17³Ô¹Ï’s nursing program, working as a nurse for 40 years. After graduation, she plans to take the CPC exam and continue working with 1st Care Medical, where she completed her internship.
Colvard, a Hokes Bluff native, will receive her Certificate in Salon & Spa Management. A former softball team manager, she considers her greatest accomplishment at 17³Ô¹Ï to be discovering herself and gaining confidence. After graduation, Railey plans to work in a salon for several years before continuing her education at UAB to pursue a career in the medical field.
Alan Smith, president of 17³Ô¹Ï, will preside over the ceremony. He will award credentials to the candidates presented by Andy Robertson, dean of Workforce Development, Dr. Tera Simmons, Executive Vice President, and Dr. Joey Battles, dean of Health Sciences. Mr. Peyton Amberson will serve as the commencement grand marshal.
For more information about 17³Ô¹Ï, visit gadsdenstate.edu.
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