Dalton State College celebrated the graduation of over 340 students during its Fall Commencement ceremony, reflecting a 6% increase from the previous year. The event recognized students who have successfully completed their degrees, preparing them to enter the workforce and contribute to the region’s economy. Many graduates have already secured full-time positions through internships and industry partnerships, emphasizing the college’s commitment to student success.
John Fuchko, President of Dalton State College, expressed pride in the graduating class. “Our mission is to provide a transformational education that equips students with the knowledge and skills they need to step confidently into their professions and lead in their communities,” he stated. He attributed the graduates’ success to their hard work, the dedication of faculty and staff, and community partnerships that offer internships, fund scholarships, and enhance academic programs.
Student Experiences and Career Opportunities
Among the graduates were Andrea Barajas, Collin Hadders, and Patton Pickard, each of whom took significant steps toward their career aspirations. Barajas graduated with a Bachelor of Business Administration in Management Information Systems. She highlighted the importance of Dalton State in providing a supportive and affordable education. “I chose Dalton State because it felt like the right place to grow. It was close to home, affordable, and supportive with a strong focus on student success,” she remarked.
Barajas interned with Mohawk Industries in their Quality Department, where she contributed to projects involving AI training models aimed at improving operational efficiency. She is set to begin her full-time role in the company’s ASPIRE Program. “The mentorship, support, and hands-on learning opportunities I received at Dalton State gave me the confidence to pursue meaningful opportunities,” she added.
Hadders, the first in his family to graduate from college, earned a Bachelor of Business Administration in Accounting. He cited affordability and direct access to faculty as key factors in his decision to attend Dalton State. “From my first semester, DSC felt like a place where I could grow academically and personally,” he said.
Hadders benefited from the college’s emphasis on ethical decision-making and professional development, stating that the mentorship he received, especially from Dr. Jamie Connors, was instrumental in shaping his academic journey. He will join Novogradac & Company LLP, a leading CPA firm, as he embarks on his professional career.
Pickard, also a first-generation college student, graduated with a Bachelor of Applied Science in Engineering Technology. He credited Dalton State with providing support and direction that fostered his leadership skills. “Dalton State gave me more than I could ever ask for. It gave me a career to look forward to and leadership skills I will take with me for the rest of my life,” he said.
During his time at Dalton State, Pickard interned with System Concepts Plus, later securing a full-time position as a controls and automation engineer. His active involvement on campus, including serving as President of the Student Government Association, helped him build confidence and discover new interests. He plans to pursue a master’s degree in computer and electrical engineering at Georgia Tech while continuing his engineering career.
Commitment to Workforce Development
Dalton State College is dedicated to preparing its graduates for high-demand career fields through a combination of internships, industry partnerships, and academic programs tailored to meet employer needs. The institution is also addressing regional workforce requirements by expanding capacity in healthcare programs and developing new academic offerings. These include industry-recognized micro-credentials, fire science, and occupational safety.
The college’s initiatives aim to strengthen its academic programs while ensuring that graduates are well-equipped to meet the evolving demands of the job market. As demonstrated by the success of its recent graduates, Dalton State continues to make a significant impact on the local community and beyond.
