Virginia Highlands Community College 2026 Commencement Program

Commencement Speakers

Makenzie McConnell Associate of Science in Science

Makenzie McConnell is a graduate of Virginia High School and has lived in several areas before settling in Bristol, VA. Makenzie's father attended VHCC, so she felt confident that VHCC would ensure a smooth transition from high school to college. While taking classes, she worked in the Campus Connection Center, served as the Student Government Association's President, and participated in several Christmas parades with VHCC. Apart from her time on campus, she works a part-time job at Blackbird Bakery, where she decorates desserts. Makenzie enjoys drawing/sketching, baking, cooking, and listening to music. Makenzie says VHCC has helped her come out of her shell: “It brought me out of my little insecure bubble, and I feel like—as I went here—I kind of matured and made a lot of great friends too.” Makenzie has a few favorite memories, like attending the Student Leadership Conference in Roanoke, where the SGA bonded and became close friends. Makenzie would like to thank her wonderful younger sisters, her amazing father,

her aunts, and her grandmother for their support. Makenzie also has a few words of advice for her fellow graduates: “Our time at VHCC has laid a strong foundation for a diverse path ahead. Embrace the next chapter with curiosity and determination, and never stop learning. Remember where you came from and how you grew from it. Never worry about the small stuff. P.S.—everything is the small stuff.” Makenzie plans to continue her education in Forensic Anthropological Science at Radford University's Honor College.

Seth Thomas Associate of Applied Science in Electrical Technology - Specialization in Mechatronics Career Studies Certificate, Applied Mechatronics Career Studies Certificate, Advanced Mechatronics

Seth Thomas is a 2024 graduate from Chilhowie High School and is from Marion, Virginia. Seth began his electrical career while still in high school, earning an Electrical Maintenance Technician certificate from the Smyth Career & Technology Center. Though unsure at first, he quickly discovered a love for the electrical trade and the way everything worked together. During his free time, Seth enjoys hiking around the region, playing with his Doberman-Rottweiler mix, Roxy, and working on one of his favorite vehicles, a 2006 Infiniti G35. One of Seth’s favorite memories during his time at VHCC was working with our Building and Grounds team, a role he began the summer after his first year. He attributes his success, in part, to the support and investment his instructors make in their students, “They're helpful for sure. They have office hours after

you get out of class, if you need to come speak with them. You know, they're really willing to sacrifice some time out of their day to help you.” Another of his favorite memories from his time in the electrical program was working on his capstone project with a classmate. They created a pneumatic cylinder that displayed 3D-printed VHCC letters in a programmed sequence using LED lights. Seth’s biggest piece of advice to his fellow graduates is, “Work for a job that you really like. Don't settle. You came to college for a reason, and that's to get the job you want.” After graduating this spring, Seth plans to continue his education at VHCC in our HVAC program and gain more hands-on experience to prepare him for his career.

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