ELIZABETH CITY, N.C. – College of The Albemarle (COA) proudly hosted its Spring 2025 commencement ceremonies on Tuesday, May 13, and Wednesday, May 14, honoring the hard work and achievements of 249 graduates who earned a total of 252 degrees and diplomas.

Tuesday’s ceremony, originally scheduled at COA – Dare, was relocated to First Flight High School due to inclement weather and featured many of COA’s Dare County graduates. Wednesday’s celebrations took place at COA – Elizabeth City with ceremonies at 3:00 p.m. and 6:00 p.m.

COA – Dare student speakers, Alice Turney (left) and Robert Wernock (right) with Judith Aiello, COA Accounting/Business Assistant Professor (Center).

COA President Dr. Jack Bagwell delivered remarks at each ceremony, sharing how COA students are shaping a better future for themselves, their families, and their communities.

“Graduation is one of my favorite days at COA,” Bagwell said. “It’s a time when we get to pause and celebrate the hard work, sacrifices and persistence that brought our students to this moment. They chose to take a bold step toward a better future, and I couldn’t be more proud of what they’ve accomplished. I hope they carry this feeling of achievement into whatever comes next.”

President Bagwell presents Esquana Brown with her diploma for Associate Degree Nursing at COA – Elizabeth City’s 3:00 pm ceremony.

Student speakers shared their unique experiences and words of encouragement with their fellow graduates. The COA – Dare ceremony featured Alice Turney and Robert Wernock. Andrew Ly and Chloe Sander spoke at the 3:00 p.m. COA – Elizabeth City ceremony, followed by Andrew Heath and Brandon Moore at the 6:00 p.m. ceremony.

College of The Albemarle congratulates our graduates and wishes them continued success in their next chapter.

College of The Albemarle Spring 2025 Graduates:

(AA – Associate in Arts, AAS – Associate in Applied Science, AFA – Associate in Fine Arts, AGE – Associate in General Education, AS – Associate in Science, DIP – Diploma)

For information or media inquiries, contact Tammy W. Sawyer, COA Director of Communications and Marketing, at [email protected] or 252-335-0821, ext. 2420.