LECANTO — Withlacoochee Technical College showed off its diversity and success during commencement ceremonies that saw 119 graduates from a variety of programs.

The school that includes specialized instruction for automotive mechanics, culinary arts, welding, electrical, GED and numerous other programs celebrated its graduates Monday night before an enthusiastic crowd of family and friends at Curtis Peterson Auditorium.

WTC Director Gloria Bishop said the school prepares students to further their education, or find jobs in “high wage, high skill and high demand” occupations.

“I’m especially honored to be in the presence of so much talent, promise and dedication,” she said. “You should be proud for persevering and being successful.”

Assistant director Lori Casalvieri made special note of the seven students who had perfect attendance.

“We all know life gets in the way sometimes but these students were in class 100 percent of the time,” she said.

The graduating class includes 24 students graduating with a general equivalency diploma and 33 inductees into the National Technical Honor Society.

Rebecca Alcorn-York, coordinator of the educational opportunity center at the College of Central Florida’s Citrus County campus, announced the award of a scholarship for tuition and fees for 60 credit hours to Richard Reed.

Some WTC programs had graduation ceremonies on other evenings. Those programs are: correctional officer; law enforcement; massage therapy; patient care assistant; and practical nursing.

Contact Chronicle reporter Mike Wright at 352-563-3228 or mwright@chronicleonline.com.

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