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Blue Ridge CTC Hosts First Ever Veteran Graduate Cord Ceremony
Blue Ridge Community and Technical College proudly held its first Veteran Graduate Cording Ceremony on the patio of the Bruin Café at the Main Campus in Martinsburg. The ceremony recognized graduates representing all branches of the United States military, including active-duty service members, veterans, and military dependents.
Held at the College’s Main Campus, located at 13650 Apple Harvest Drive, the ceremony honored the graduates who balanced academic achievement with military commitment and family sacrifice. Shauna Seering, Blue Ridge’s Registrar, explained that the red, white, and blue braided cords represent much more than academic success. She stated, “They symbolize service, sacrifice, perseverance, and continued pursuit of growth and opportunity.”
Guest speaker Major Christopher French spoke about his years of military service in intelligence and with NATO, as well as his continued work mentoring service members. Major French emphasized the importance of seeking support and utilizing available resources, stating, “There are a lot of resources available, all you have to do is ask.”
Dr. Peter Checkovich, Blue Ridge’s Founding President and Vietnam veteran, served as the master of ceremonies. He concluded the event by reminding graduates that service continues beyond military duty. He shared that the leadership, discipline, integrity, and commitment demonstrated in military service continue into classrooms, workplaces, and the community.
Graduates recognized during the ceremony included:
“It was amazing. It’s really a great way to honor veterans and dependents, like myself,” stated Elizabeth Compton, graduating with her Associate of Applied Science in Veterinary Technology.
The College is honored to recognize these students for both their academic accomplishments and their service to the nation. Blue Ridge Community and Technical College has been recognized as both a Military Friendly School and a Military Friendly Spouse School for many years and is proud to serve military members, veterans, and their families throughout the region.
