Visually-Impaired Students, Others Realize Dreams; Graduate from CTC

When the ballroom at the Columbus Convention and Trade Center filled up with friends, family and loved ones of Columbus Technical College graduates on Thursday, December 10, 2009, two students stood out among the estimated 250 who walked across the stage and the additional 1300 or so in the audience.

Like so many other graduates, both 21-year-old Megan Garcia and 32-year-old Martha Brandt have excelled in their programs and have made lifelong friends while at Columbus Tech. While they each have visions for their success, neither of them can see.

Megan Garcia

December 10, 2009: Top - Megan Garcia accepts her degree in Early Childhood Education from Vice President of Academic Affairs, Dr. Linn Storey. Above - Martha Brandt is now a graduate of the Computer Networking Specialist program at Columbus Technical College. Her white stole indicates she is a member of the National Technical Honor Society.

Both young women completed their coursework to earn Associates degrees despite being visually impaired. While at Columbus Technical College, Martha Brandt was also an employee - helping transfer class syllabi, notes and other materials into Braille. Martha walked across the stage Thursday night to accept her degree in Computer Networking. Megan received her Early Childhood Education degree. She hopes to continue her education and eventually become a child psychologist.

Lance Duke Grad Speaker
Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer of Columbus Regional, Lance Duke, was the speaker at the December 2009 CTC Commencement Ceremony.

The featured speaker for this graduation ceremony was Lance Duke, Executive Vice President and COO of Columbus Regional and President and CEO of The Medical Center. He spoke about the importance of strong ethics, family, a sense of humor, doing good things and giving back to others.

The next commencement ceremony will be in June, 2010.