Student Support Services recognized outstanding students at pre-graduation event

Academics, Students, Success Stories

Jun 24, 2024

TRIO SSS graduates - Rodney Pankey, Bianca Pearson, Yvette Lackey, Eman Nasir, Reine Anato, Joy Williams, Talisha Chambers, Bikram Ghataney — Students celebrating at the TRIO SSS pre-graduation event included (from left) Rodney Pankey, Bianca Pearson, Yvette Lackey, Eman Nasir, Reine Anato, Joy Williams, Talisha Chambers, and Bikram Ghataney

Cincinnati State’s TRIO Student Support Services program held a pre-graduation celebration in early May and presented awards to several students.

The federally-funded TRIO Student Support Services (SSS) program provides assistance completing an associate degree and transferring to a four-year institution for students who are first generation college students, low income, or disabled.

The graduates were led in by TRIO SSS alumnus Latoya Chambers (2016), who is currently serving as the Interim Program Director for Cincinnati State’s College Access Programs.

The evening included words of congratulations and encouragement from President Monica Posey and Provost Robbin Hoopes.

Guest speakers Sarah and Karlis Gray, who graduated in 1985, delivered a motivational message and encouraged graduates to “keep reaching for the stars.” Both said the support they received while they were students helped them succeed after graduation. Sarah is now the Director of Youth Services for Hamilton County Jobs and Family Services, and Karlis is CEO of a successful audio/video production company.

Several students as well as faculty and staff members were recognized for their achievements with TRIO Awards:

Talisha Chambers ad Dr. Sandra Dees — Talisha Chambers (left) received the “Student of the Year” award from Dr. Sandra Dees

Talisha Chambers (Nursing) received the “Student of the Year” award for demonstrating commitment to achieving her academic and personal goals.
Rodney Pankey (Associate of Arts) and Brandie Angel (Associate of Arts) received “Perseverance” awards for showing great determination in overcoming challenges that would sometimes derail others.
Yvette Lackey (Associate of Arts) and Bianca Pearson (Pre-Business Administration) earned “Trailblazer” awards. This award recognizes students who creates a standard of excellence for others in demonstrating their commitment to achieving their goals.
Eman Nasir (Pre-Business Administration) and Bikram Ghataney (Pre-Business Administration) received “Rising Star” awards, recognizing their determination, coachability, and ability to inspire others despite their own personal challenges.
Faculty member Emanuel “Junior” Ivenso (Mechanical Engineering Technology) received the Student Advocate Award for the impact that his efforts had on TRIO SSS students.
Mrs. Erma Rutland-White received the Outstanding Tutor Award in recognition of 10 years of dedicated service to the TRIO Student Support Services program.

Event attendees enjoyed a meal prepared by Southern Grace Eats, a restaurant and catering company founded by alumnus Nickey Stephenson.

The Transfer Center provided gifts for the graduates, and TRIO “family members” Allyson Knue and Arlene Brown assisted with the event.