Helms College Macon Campus held a commencement ceremony for graduates of its School of Hospitality and School of Industrial Trades on Tuesday, January 31, at the Anderson Conference Center.

The commencement ceremony celebrated graduates who completed their program requirements between September and December 2022 for the following programs: Culinary Arts Certificate, Culinary Arts Diploma, Associate of Applied Science in Culinary Arts and HVAC & Refrigeration Diploma.

When it came time to announce how many students had already attained a job in their field of study, nearly every single graduate stood, showing off the green cords that indicate this achievement. Connecting graduates with careers in their fields of study is a key part of Helms College’s mission. Some graduates are pursuing higher credentials, having already enrolled and begun their next quarter of study.

“Our greatest challenge is supplying the industry with enough of our highly qualified graduates. Our students have finely-honed skills, as well as a strong and humble work ethic, as they strive to serve others,” said Helms College Executive Vice President for Education Luke Schultheis, Ph.D.

Valedictorian Stephanie L. Rowe, completed her Associate of Applied Science in Culinary Arts and was named an Academic Honor Graduate.

Rowe spoke about how she could not have completed her degree without the help of faculty, staff, friends, family and her faith. She said many other students echoed the same sentiments, and thanked everyone who had helped them on their journey to graduation.

Schultheis was the keynote speaker and also talked about how graduates can use their network of Helms College faculty, staff and fellow graduates, as well as family and friends, to help them going forward.

“It’s quite a calling you have," Schultheis said. "I can assure you that as you pay attention to people, meeting them where they are, take advantage of opportunities that are outside of your plan, and serve with joy. You will have a life more fulfilling than one you could have ever planned.”

James Stiff, President & CEO of Goodwill Industries of Middle Georgia and the CSRA and President of Helms College, spoke about how Helms College was created as a continuation of the work and legacy of service of Rev. Edgar J. Helms, founder of Goodwill Industries.

Rev. Helms helped people receive training in trades to develop their God-given gifts, get better jobs, better support their families, have better lives, and create dynamic communities.