FDTC Celebrates Remarkable 2025 Graduating Class, Honoring Nearly 1,000 Students

Florence-Darlington Technical College (FDTC) is proud to celebrate another milestone, marking one of the highest graduation totals in the college’s history. The 2024-2025 Commencement Ceremony will honor the achievements of 981 graduating students.

“We are thrilled to recognize yet another record-breaking graduating class at FDTC,” said FDTC President Dr. Jermaine Ford. “Our students have worked tirelessly to finish what they started. Class of 2025—your moment is here. On behalf of our entire team, we hope your time at FDTC has been a stepping stone toward continued success, wherever your journey leads.”

The ceremony will take place on May 15 at the Florence Center, beginning at 6:00 p.m. This annual event brings together all graduates from across the academic year to celebrate their dedication and accomplishments. Among the 981 graduates, 487 students will earn associate degrees, 106 students will receive diplomas, and 388 students will be awarded certificates.

This year’s commencement speaker will be Donna Isgett, President and Chief Executive Officer of McLeod Health. A native of the Atlanta area, Isgett earned her Associate Degree in Nursing from Georgia Highlands College (formerly Floyd Junior College), her Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Georgia State University, and her Master’s degree in Critical Care Nursing from the Medical University of South Carolina in Charleston. With a clinical background as an emergency flight nurse, Isgett joined McLeod Health in 1997 and has since served in numerous leadership roles, including Senior Vice President of Corporate Quality and Safety and Chief Operating Officer. She is committed to fostering system-wide excellence in clinical care, physician and staff engagement, and patient services across the McLeod Health system.

For the second year, the college will also recognize graduates from FDTC’s Corporate and Workforce Development (CWD) programs. A total of 179 CWD students will complete certifications in fields such as Certified Nursing Assistant, Pharmacy Technician, Medical Surgical Technician, and Emergency Medical Technician—and will proudly walk the stage as FDTC graduates.

Additionally, FDTC will celebrate the outstanding achievements of local high school students who have earned college credentials through dual enrollment and Early College programs. These graduates reflect the strong partnerships FDTC maintains with area school districts and the growing opportunities for students to jump-start their higher education and career pathways. This year’s class includes students from Darlington High School, Grace Home Association, Hannah-Pamplico High School, Marion High School, Mullins High School, Johnsonville High School, JP Truluck Magnet School, and Lake City High School.

As FDTC continues to grow and serve the Pee Dee region, the 2025 graduating class embodies the college’s mission to provide accessible, high-quality education and workforce training. Whether entering the workforce, continuing their education, or advancing in their current careers, these graduates exemplify the spirit of student success that defines FDTC.

For those unable to attend in person, the college will offer a live stream of the ceremony on the FDTC Facebook page.

The Florence Center is located at 3300 W. Radio Drive in Florence, and the ceremony will begin promptly at 6:00 p.m.