With 7% Increase, Record Numbers Set to Graduate from Beaufort County Community College | Eastern NC Now

Press Release:

The 391 eligible graduates mark the largest graduating class in the college's history.

    WASHINGTON, N.C.     Beaufort County Community College (Beaufort CCC) is preparing for a historic commencement ceremony on May 9, 2025, with a record-breaking 391 students set to graduate. As of now, 344 graduates have indicated they will participate in the ceremony, marking a continued trend of increased student success and completion rates at the college.

    This milestone reflects Beaufort CCC's success in improving student progression and persistence, as well as the impact of the Beaufort Promise Scholarship, which has significantly expanded access to education.

    The 391 eligible graduates represent a 7% increase from the 367 students eligible in 2024, building on a 10% increase from 2023 to 2024. Whi le final numbers may shift as spring semester students complete their coursework, this marks the largest graduating class in the college's history.

    "This achievement is a testament to the hard work and dedication of our students, the doors we have opened with the Beaufort Promise Scholarship, and the unwavering support of our faculty and staff," said Dr. Dave Loope, Beaufort CCC President. "Each graduate represents perseverance and the promise of a brighter future for our community."

    Beaufort CCC continues to help students progress toward graduation more efficiently. The Centralized Advising Center has played a key role in guiding students toward timely degree completion by offering structured academic pathways and providing a success coach to assist students struggling with coursework.

    The rising number of graduates also underscores the growing impact of the Beaufort Promise Scholarship, which offers free tuition and fees to many students. With this additional financial support, students are more likely to continue in their program of study and graduate on time. The scholarship program has also attracted new students who previously saw college as unattainable.

    The commencement ceremony will take place on May 9 at Washington High School, celebrating the achievements of graduates as they enter the workforce or transfer to four-year universities.


    In addition to degree-seeking students, Beaufort CCC's Division of Continuing Education awarded nearly 4,000 short-term training credentials during the 2023-2024 academic year, equipping students with the skills needed to enter high-demand careers. Some of these programs host their own program-specific ceremonies, and final credential numbers will be available after the conclusion of the Spring 2025 semester.

    As Beaufort CCC prepares to celebrate this record-breaking graduating class, the college is also enrolling students for the Summer 2025 semester. Courses are open to both current Beaufort CCC students and university students looking to complete transferable credits.

• Attila Nemecz
• Marketing and Public Relations Coordinator
• Beaufort County Community College
• 5337 U.S. Highway 264 East
• Washington, N.C. 27889
• Ph: 252-940-6387
• Cell: 252-940-8672
• attila.nemecz@beaufortccc.edu