Fairmont, W.Va. – Pierpont Community & Technical College held its annual commencement ceremony Thursday, May 9, 2019, at the Robinson Grand Theater in Clarksburg, WV. Degrees were conferred on graduates from the Schools of Business, Aviation, & Technology; General Education & Professional Programs; and Health Sciences.
Author and entrepreneur Gary Schoeniger provided the keynote address to the graduates, family members, and guests in attendance. As the Founder and CEO of the Entrepreneurial Learning Initiative, Schoeniger led the development of the Ice House Entrepreneurship Program, which has been recognized for “redefining entrepreneurship education in classrooms and communities around the world.” His speech entitled “How Underdogs Win” examined how those who have no particular advantage in life manage to rise above their circumstances to create meaningful and prosperous lives.
Schoeniger concluded his powerful message with this advice to the graduating class: “There is one final thing I would like to share with you that I have learned from underdog entrepreneurs: You are more powerful than you imagine. The only way you are going to know is if you try.”
More than 400 students completed degree and certification requirements to graduate during the 2018-19 school year.
Pierpont offers two-year Associate Degree programs; one-year Certificate Programs; and Short-term Training Programs that prepare West Virginians for high-demand careers close to home.