News Summary
A recent graduation ceremony at Colonial Life Arena celebrated the achievements of 27 high school students from Lexington Two’s Early College and Dual Enrollment programs. This event highlighted the hard work, dedication, and remarkable accomplishments of students earning college credits and associate degrees, paving the way for their bright futures. The success of this program continues to inspire new applicants eager to advance their education while still in high school, demonstrating a commitment to excellence in academics and community support.
Celebration in Columbia: Students Shine at Midlands Technical College Graduation
Columbia, the heart of South Carolina, recently played host to an inspiring celebration for high school students who have gone above and beyond in their academic pursuits. On May 7, twenty-seven remarkable students from Lexington Two’s Early College and Dual Enrollment programs gathered for a graduation ceremony at the Colonial Life Arena, a day filled with pride, achievement, and a glimpse into their bright futures.
A Well-Earned Achievement
Students from both Airport and Brookland-Cayce High Schools were recognized for their hard work and dedication. These programs, which let students earn college credits without having to pay a dime during their high school days, are creating incredible learning opportunities. This year saw a total of ten seniors emerging with their well-deserved associate degrees, having successfully tackled at least 61 college credits through 20 or more college courses. Their accomplishment speaks volumes about their determination and the supportive educational environment at Lexington Two.
Meet the Graduates
Among the standout graduates were William Barrs, Charleston Cartzendafner, Landon Chavez, Cindy Nguyen, Joshua Nix, Levi Rambo, Abbie Roley, and Riley Wilbourne. Each of these exceptional students earned dual associate diplomas during their time in the program, showcasing their incredible commitment to education. A special shout-out goes to Aaden Serra, who proudly received an associate in art diploma, while Shelby Williamson picked up an associate in science diploma.
In addition to these impressive, full-fledged degrees, seventeen other students were awarded general college studies certificates. This credential requires completing at least 18 college credits along with six or more transferable college courses. The students who received certificates include a vibrant mix of names like Charles Balkema, Christopher Boston, Lindsay Castrejon, Savannah Chappell, Tennessa Cunningham, and Sharese Harrell, among others. Their achievements are a testament to the hard work they put in and the support they received from their families and schools.
Looking Ahead
Currently, about 80 students from Lexington Two are enrolled in various stages of the Early College and Dual Enrollment programs, proving that interest in these life-changing opportunities is strong. With an additional 104 applications rolling in for the upcoming 2025-2026 school year, it’s clear that many more students are eager to join the ranks of their predecessors.
It’s worth noting that Lexington Two has been a pioneer in offering such programs. By partnering with Midlands Technical College, the district was among the first in the area to introduce the Early College program, setting a precedent for high school education that combines rigorous academic standards with college readiness. These initiatives not only lighten the financial load for students but also pave the way for smoother transitions to higher education.
A Bright Future
As these graduates step into the next chapter of their lives, the sense of achievement is palpable. They’ve opened doors to possibilities that will undoubtedly shape their futures. It’s not just about degrees; it’s about the knowledge, skills, and experiences gained along the way. The supportive community, dedicated teachers, and the pursuit of knowledge have combined to create success stories that will resonate for years to come.
In Columbia, as these enthusiastic graduates move forward, the community stands proud behind them, cheering them on as they embark on their new adventures. Here’s to their future – full of promise, potential, and proudly representing the very best of what Lexington Two has to offer!
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Additional Resources
- The State: Local News
- WLTX: Cayce Elementary School News
- Post and Courier: Columbia Area High School
- Wikipedia: Early College High School
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Education
Author: STAFF HERE LEXINGTON WRITER
The LEXINGTON STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERELexington.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Lexington, Fayette County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Woodland Art Fair, Crave Food and Music Festival, and Railbird Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like Commerce Lexington and Blue Grass Community Foundation, plus leading businesses in education, manufacturing, and technology that power the local economy such as University of Kentucky, Toyota Motor Manufacturing, and Lexmark. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREBowlingGreen.com and HERELouisville.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Kentucky's dynamic landscape.
