May 11, 2023

Forsyth Technical Community College’s graduates filled Lawrence Joel Veterans Memorial Coliseum with smiles, pride and hope during commencement exercises on the evening of Wednesday, May 10.
1,554 students received an associate degree, diploma or certificate. This graduating class ranged in age from 16 – 73, with an average age of 28.


Graduates heard from the Student Government Association President, Renuka Khatri, who talked about her personal experience growing up in India before coming to the US seven years ago, and how hopeful she is for the future. “Life is full of possibilities, but you need to know where to look. Grab hold of the possibilities, turn your dreams into goals and make your goals a reality.” Khatri earned her associate in science degree and has received the prestigious Goodnight Scholarship to attend N.C. State University in the fall.


The Commencement keynote speaker was Christy Cox Spencer, president of JKS Incorporated, co-owner of the Winston Cup Museum and Forsyth Tech alumna. She encouraged the graduates to take their degree as far as they possibly could, to be proud of their accomplishments and not undervalue the education that they have received. “Be proud of this accomplishment and realize that not everyone has the same path to follow,” she said.


Also in attendance were Rep. Kanika Brown, many other elected officials, several members of the Forsyth Tech Board of Trustees, Forsyth Tech faculty and staff, and the family, friends and loved ones of the graduates.


President of Forsyth Tech Janet Spriggs addressed the graduates, applauding their perseverance and the investment that they made in themselves and their community, by choosing education. Spriggs added that the graduates were ready for success, having faced challenges with perseverance, taken risks and pushing the boundaries of what is possible.


“As graduates, you are uniquely positioned to make a difference in your community and in the world. You have been equipped with the knowledge and skills necessary to tackle the obstacles you may face. And you have the passion and drive to make a difference,” Spriggs said.


The event concluded with a rousing cheer for the graduates, and celebrations with family, friends and loved ones began.