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ATC honors grads

• Scores of Albany Tech students were awarded degrees, certificates and diplomas at Friday's graduation.

J.D. Sumner

ALBANY — Striding across the stage at Friday evening’s Albany Tech graduation ceremonies, every inch of 82-year-old Arthur Jones’ five-foot-plus stature loomed larger than life.

Completing a task that was denied him originally by the bitterness of war and the complications of life, the military veteran accepted his GED amid rousing applause and with a grin that was all sweetness.

And it doesn’t end there.

Jones is planning to return to his new-found alma mater and further his education, according to Albany Tech President Anthony O. Parker.

Jones’ story is one of many that echoed across the HPER gymnasium at Albany State University Friday night as students received hard-earned degrees, diplomas and certifications.

Addressing the body during his opening remarks, Parker used Jones’ story of determination and dedication to serve as an example to the newly minted graduates.

“He is truly an inspiration to us all and an example of the value of hard work,” Parker said.

In addition to Jones, the scores of graduates also featured Ashlee Johnson, who, as Albany Tech’s Georgia Occupational Award of Leadership recipient, will represent the college in Atlanta where her accomplishments will be measured against other GOAL recipients from around the state.

The commencement speaker, Rep. Freddie Powell Sims, D-Albany, congratulated the class but also reminded the students that their achievements at Albany Tech are only a prelude to the responsibilities yet to be asked of them by their communities.

“It’s the beginning of something new and exciting for all of you,” Sims said. “Continue on with your education because knowledge is truly power.”

The graduates were awarded degrees, certificates and diplomas in areas ranging from accounting and early childhood education to law enforcement and commercial truck driving.

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