Alexandria, LA (May 20, 2024) — Central Louisiana Technical Community College (CLTCC) is set to hold its graduation ceremony tomorrow, May 21, 2024, at 11:00 a.m. at the Pentecostals of Alexandria. The college will celebrate the accomplishments of 311 graduates who have earned associate degrees, technical diplomas, or certificates. Additionally, 110 students will receive their high school equivalency diplomas as HiSet completers.
“This is a momentous day for our graduates and all at CLTCC,” said Chancellor Dr. Jimmy Sawtelle. “These graduates will be part of a life-changing and workforce development moment across Cenla. Many of these students are the first in their families to become college graduates. We are proud of our graduates who now enter high-wage, high-skill, and high-demand careers. It’s a tremendous accomplishment, and we are so very proud of each of our graduates.”
The commencement address will be delivered by Susana ‘Susie’ Schowen, Secretary of the Louisiana Workforce Commission. Appointed by Governor Jeff Landry in January 2024, Secretary Schowen has a rich background in education and workforce development. Prior to her current role, she served as Vice President of Education at the Louisiana Community and Technical College System and spent over a decade with Louisiana Economic Development’s FastStart. Schowen is known for her efforts in aligning education with the needs of employers and enhancing the prosperity of communities.
The ceremony will also feature Stephan Fontenot performing the National Anthem.
This year marks a record number of Practical Nursing graduates at CLTCC, with 143 students earning either an Associate of Applied Science or a Technical Diploma. “This record graduating class is inclusive of two new evening programs,” said Dean of Allied Health Mignonne Ater. “We are very grateful to the Rapides Foundation for their investments to address the Cenla nursing shortage crisis.” Dr. Sawtelle also acknowledged the efforts of recruiters, student services, financial aid, and Practical Nursing instructors.
In addition to nursing, CLTCC will celebrate graduates from non-credit workforce programs such as Commercial Truck Driving, Heavy Equipment Operator, and the inaugural Line Worker Program.
A total of 80 students will receive Associate Degrees in Business, Cloud Computing, Drafting, Industrial Manufacturing, and Practical Nursing. Technical Diplomas will be awarded to 196 students in fields including A/C Refrigeration, Business, Cloud Computing, Drafting, Electrician, Forestry, Industrial Manufacturing, Practical Nursing, and Welding. Certificates of Technical Studies will be presented to 35 students in Heavy Equipment Operator, Patient Care Tech, and Pharmacy Tech.
For more information about enrollment at CLTCC, visit www.CLTCC.edu/apply. For further inquiries, contact the school via email at info@cltcc.edu or call 800-278-9855.
Central Louisiana Technical Community College (CLTCC) is a two-year technical and community college offering associate degrees, technical diplomas, industry certificates, and customized training in more than 20 disciplines to support local workforce development and prepare students for high-demand and high-wage careers. CLTCC serves seven parishes in Central Louisiana through its eight campuses and provides instruction in one state prison and one federal correctional institution. For more information, visit www.cltcc.edu.
