May 8, 2025
Pearl River Community College’s Dobie Holden Stadium was bursting at the seams with the excited families and friends of more than 600 graduating students anticipating their big moment.
The morning ceremony awarded degrees to 332 students from Career Technical Education programs, including Allied Health and Nursing. The invocation was given by Anna Claire Johnson of Foxworth, the National Anthem was sung by Delta Howard of Hattiesburg, and the Benediction was done by Justin Friloux of Matthews, Louisiana.
The afternoon ceremony recognized 370 students receiving an Associate in Arts degree. The invocation was given by Kaden Reeves of Leetown, the National Anthem sung by Lila Reed of Sumrall, and the Benediction was done by William Phelps from Hattiesburg.
“This is my favorite time of the school year,” said PRCC President Dr. Adam Breerwood. “There is nothing better than being able to see students meet their goals. You have made it!”
Several student groups were honored by Breerwood throughout the ceremonies, asking associated students to stand and be congratulated. The groups included Phi Theta Kappa, the National Technical Honors Society, PRCC Middle College, Dr. William Lewis Honors Institute, military veterans, and more.
Graduates were also reminded of the Wildcat Way: Pride, Respect, Class and Character.
“Whenever people look at you, they should see that you are still walking the Wildcat Way,” said Breerwood. “It is up to you to help grow the next generation of Wildcats. We know the value of helping people grow River Strong, and we know you have what it takes to help the growth continue.”
Amiya Oatis, from Columbia, completed her Associate of Applied Science degree in Business and Marketing Management and was excited for graduation day.
“Leaving PRCC feels like turning the page of a cherished chapter—one filled with growth and unforgettable moments that I will cherish forever,” said Oatis. “The Wildcat Way of Pride, Respect, Class, and Character has shaped me in ways words cannot express. I’ll carry the spirit of The River with me always.”
After 40 years filled with raising a family and working a variety of jobs, Peggy Peek of Poplarville came to PRCC to earn her Associate of Arts degree. Her daughter, Kira Arthurs, teaches sociology on the Hancock County and Poplarville Campuses. She is transferring to the University of Southern Mississippi School of Social Work this fall.
“I’ve always leaned towards helping other people,” said Peek. “I would really like to work in the hospital setting to help patients and their families when they’re struggling.”
Peek admitted that it was a little scary coming back to school after so many years away. However, she encourages anyone considering it to pursue it.
“It’s never too late,” said Peek “If I can come back after 40 years and make it, anybody can do it.”
Both ceremonies were live-streamed for families and friends who were unable to attend the events of the day in person. The footage will be available on PRCC’s YouTube channel and Facebook page.
GETTING STARTED AT PRCC
Enrolling at Pearl River Community College requires just a few simple steps:
1. Apply for Admissions online and have your transcript sent
2. Apply for Financial Aid, including doing your FASFA
3. Apply for Housing if needed
Visit prcc.edu/future-wildcats/admissions/ to become a Wildcat today.
Anyone interested in a tour of Pearl River Community College can reach out to the Office of Recruitment by calling 601-403-1197, emailing recruitment@ prcc.edu, or visiting the webpage prcc.edu/future-wildcats/recruitment/
For the latest news on Pearl River Community College, visit PRCC.edu and follow us on Twitter (@PRCC_Wildcats), Instagram (PRCCWILDCATS), Facebook (@PRCCMKTG), and TikTok (@prcc_wildcats).
Article by Laura O’Neill. Photography by Lauren Johnson, Alexx Kennedy, and Laura O’Neill.
