Ogeechee Technical College held its annual commencement ceremony on May 14 at Hanner Fieldhouse on the campus of Georgia Southern University, celebrating the achievements of its graduating class in front of more than 3,000 guests.
The event recognized 371 students who completed associate’s degrees, diplomas, technical certificates of credit, and Georgia High School Equivalency diplomas. Faculty, staff, family members, friends, and local dignitaries attended to support the graduates as they marked this milestone.
During the ceremony, President Lori Durden asked graduates to acknowledge their families before sharing her appreciation for the class. “I’m sure that you feel exhilaration for what you have accomplished and the knowledge and skills that you’ve gained are your rewards, something that can never be taken away from you,” said Durden. “This is certainly a milestone in your life, something that you will remember forever, and I am honored to be a part of it.”
Dr. Patrice Buckner Jackson delivered the commencement address with words of encouragement: “You could have chosen not to do this, you could have given up in the middle of your program… but decision by decision, day by day, you showed up,” said Jackson. “I want you to know the impact of what you accomplished tonight is going to outlive you for generations to come. I want you know you are building a beautiful, full life.” The evening concluded with glow sticks and music as attendees celebrated.
According to data from OTC Registrar Brandy Murphy cited during the event’s conclusion, there were 2,198 degrees, diplomas and certificates awarded in Academic Year 2026 to a total of 1,051 students.
Ogeechee Technical College promotes economic and social prosperity by equipping students with skills designed to bolster both regional workforce needs and communities across its service area; it serves more than 3,200 students in credit programs along with participants in adult and continuing education programs as part of its mission according to Ogeechee Technical College. The college features an extensive main campus in Statesboro as well as learning centers in Evans and Screven counties—including a FANUC robotics training center—and has previously been named Technical College of the Year twice while functioning within the Technical College System of Georgia.
