Guilford Technical Community College honors 1,798 graduates during 59th annual commencement exercises
Published on: May 15, 2025
JAMESTOWN, N.C. (May 15, 2025) – Today, Guilford Technical Community College honored 1,798 students with 2,197 credentials, diplomas, and degrees, during the college’s 59th annual commencement exercise at the First Horizon Coliseum.
GTCC President Anthony Clarke, Ph.D., welcomed and congratulated the students and their families.
The keynote speaker for the graduation programs was Maurice Furet, a 2021 dual-enrolled GTCC student.
Furet began his academic journey at Guilford Technical Community College in August 2019 as a dual-enrolled high school student at The Point College Preparatory and Leadership Academy in Jamestown, North Carolina. While pursuing an associate degree in general science, he engaged in the GTCC community through organizations such as the Spanish club, NC STEM Alliance, Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society, and student government. Furet served as GTCC’s student government vice president for special events his first year at GTCC, and the next year as the youngest student government association president and board of trustees’ member.
After graduating from GTCC in 2021, Furet transferred to North Carolina State University, where he earned a bachelor's in biochemistry with minors in health, medicine, and human values, as well as forensic science, in 2023.
Following graduation, he moved to Columbus, Ohio, where he now works as a research associate and lab manager at The Ohio State University, studying the progression, prevention, and treatment of pancreatic diseases.
Currently, Furet is applying to medical schools across the country and plans to pursue a career as a physician-scientist, combining preventive and surgical medicine with research to advance healthcare for underserved communities.
“Tenacity, empathy, and a sense of purpose motivate me every day,” Furet shared in his speech. “The obstacles I’ve faced have made me more understanding of others. My leadership experiences and commitment to community reflect the kind of physician I hope to become — compassionate, resilient, and always growing.”
In addition to the graduation ceremony, students and staff were recognized for achievements during the 2024-2025 school year.
The 2025 Board of Trustees Teaching Innovation Award was presented to Thomas Lantz, assistant professor, culinary technology.
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