May 7, 2026

R-CCC celebrates 57th commencement, Lassiter Urges Graduates to
“Hold the Door Open”

                                                                       

AHOSKIE, NC––Under gray skies and intermittent rain, Roanoke-Chowan Community College (R-CCC) celebrated its 57th commencement ceremony on May 1, honoring the Class of 2026 in a program marked by reflection, inspiration and community pride. Not even the passing showers could dampen the spirits of graduates, families and faculty gathered for the milestone event.

A total of 186 students graduated, earning 278 academic and workforce credentials, including 120 associate degrees, 128 certificates and 30 diplomas.

The keynote address was delivered by R-CCC Foundation Board Chair Andre’ M. Lassiter Sr., an entrepreneur, public servant and longtime advocate for education and community development in northeastern North Carolina.

Lassiter centered his remarks on what he called the “master key,” a symbol of the graduates’ education, perseverance and future potential.

“Only you truly know what it took to sit in that seat today. The long nights, the early mornings, the sacrifices no one applauded and the moments you wanted to quit but didn’t,” Lassiter told graduates.

He encouraged students to recognize the support systems that helped them succeed and to carry that spirit forward.

“The true power of the master key is not in opening doors for yourself,” he said. “The true power is opening doors for others. … When you unlock your doors, don’t close them behind you. Leave them open for someone else.”

Lassiter emphasized that success should be measured not only by personal achievement, but by lifting others along the way.

“Success is not measured by how far you go alone, but how many people you bring with you,” he said.

He also reminded graduates that persistence will be essential in the next stage of their journey.

“There will be moments when doors don’t open right away,” Lassiter said. “But when those moments come, don’t dare drop your key. … And when the door won’t open, build your own.”

R-CCC President Dr. Murray J. Williams also addressed the graduates, noting the significance of commencement as a milestone.

“The graduation ceremony is a rite of passage that scholars have enjoyed for hundreds of years,” Williams said. “It signifies that a new phase in your lives has begun.”

She encouraged students to take pride in their accomplishments and to continue striving for growth and service.

“Today’s ceremony is also an opportunity to recognize the impact that you have made on the college and the spirit that defines your success. It is a time to take an inventory of the skills and knowledge you have acquired and the opportunities you have created and to anticipate the exciting potential you offer the immediate and global communities,” said Williams.

Graduate and Student Ambassador Marcus Creecy-Toliver spoke on behalf of the student body, reflecting on perseverance and determination.

“My journey wasn’t easy or perfect,” Creecy-Toliver said. “But I learned success is not how fast you finish. It’s about finishing.”

The ceremony also marked a historic milestone for the college. For the first time since opening in 1967, the R-CCC Board of Trustees conferred the honorary title of Trustee Emeritus. The distinction was awarded to Lassiter and Ronald J. Gatling for their leadership, advocacy and service.

In addition, Williams was recognized for her five years of service as president of the college.

Roanoke-Chowan Community College remains committed to empowering students and enriching the region through high-quality education and workforce training opportunities. For more information, visit www.roanokechowan.edu.

R-CCC Foundation Board Chair Andre’ M. Lassiter Sr. was the keynote speaker at Roanoke-Chowan Community College’s 57^th commencement ceremony on May 1. He centered his remarks on what he called the “master key,” a symbol of the graduates’ education, perseverance and future potential.
 
 

Graduate and Student Ambassador Marcus Creecy-Toliver spoke on behalf of the student body, reflecting on perseverance and determination.
 

The ceremony also marked a historic milestone for the college. For the first time since opening in 1967, the R-CCC Board of Trustees conferred the honorary title of Trustee Emeritus. The distinction was awarded to Lassiter for his leadership, advocacy and service. Pictured with Lassiter is R-CCC President Dr. Murray J. Williams.
 
 

The R-CCC Board of Trustees conferred the honorary title of Trustee Emeritus to Ronald J. Gatling for his leadership, advocacy and service. Pictured with Gatling is R-CCC President Dr. Murray J. Williams.
 
 

Roanoke-Chowan Community College celebrated its commencement ceremony on May 1. There were 186 students who graduated, earning a total of 278 academic and workforce credentials.
 

 

Roanoke-Chowan Community College’s Mission

Roanoke-Chowan Community College, a member of the North Carolina Community College System and located in Hertford County, is a public, two-year institution of higher education offering associate degrees, diplomas, certificates, college and career readiness, and customized business and industry training in a variety of delivery modes promoting public service, transfer, and workforce development for a diverse student body, leading them to contribute to the vitality of an increasingly global community. www.roanokechowan.edu #DiscoverRCCC “Where community and careers connect”

Media Contact: Melanie Temple, Director of Marketing & Recruitment/PIO, metemple7181@roanokechowan.edu, 252-862-1243