[BECKLEY, WV] — New River Community and Technical College proudly celebrated the accomplishments of its Class of 2025 during the Commencement Ceremony held on Sunday, May 18, at the Beckley-Raleigh County Convention Center. Surrounded by friends, family, faculty, and staff, the ceremony celebrated the accomplishments of 300 graduates in this year’s graduating class.
Among this year’s honorees were first-generation college students, military veterans, and—for the first time—graduates from New River CTC’s Heating Ventilation and Air Conditioning (HVAC) and Surgical Technology programs. The ceremony also included several dual enrollment high school students who walked across the stage to receive their degrees. Through New River CTC’s partnerships with the Mercer County Technical Education Center and the Nicholas County School System, these students earned their college credentials before graduating high school.
The college was honored to welcome Richard Jarrell, former Owner/Operator of multiple Chick-fil-A locations in Beckley, as the Commencement Speaker. Jarrell delivered an inspiring message on perseverance, servant leadership, and the importance of investing in yourself. Faculty member Dr. Brandon Mills, Department Chair of Business and Computers, brought remarks from the faculty of New River CTC, offering encouragement to students to lead with integrity and passion in their fields. Representing the student body, Richard Perkins, a graduate of the Physical Therapist Assistant program, gave a heartfelt address that captured the resilience, growth, and determination of the Class of 2025.
“Commencement is always a powerful reminder of why we do what we do,” said Dr. Bonny Ball Copenhaver, President of New River Community and Technical College. “Each student who crosses the stage represents a story of perseverance, purpose, and potential. It’s an honor to support their journeys and to watch them step into the future they’ve worked so hard to build.”
Find all the photos taken by Rick Barbero from this year’s commencement ceremony here.
For more information about New River CTC programs and upcoming enrollment opportunities, visit www.newriver.edu today.
For media inquiries, please contact:
Mykah F. Ballard
Director of Communications
New River Community and Technical College
Phone: 304-929-6727
