The Technical College of the Lowcountry celebrated its 2026 commencement ceremony Friday evening, May 8, at Henry C. Chambers Waterfront Park, honoring 349 graduates who collectively earned 520 college credentials including associate degrees, certificates, and diplomas.
The ceremony recognized graduates from across the college’s academic and workforce programs. Approximately 95 percent of TCL graduates remain in the region to work, supporting local businesses and strengthening the economies of Beaufort, Jasper, Hampton, and Colleton counties.
Among the graduates were 17 students from the Beaufort County School District’s TCL Tides program, an academic partnership between the college and Beaufort County School District that allows qualified high school students, beginning as early as ninth grade, to enroll full-time in dual enrollment coursework. Each of the 17 Tides students earned a college degree prior to receiving their high school diploma.
The commencement speaker was Dr. Frank Rodriguez, Superintendent of Beaufort County School District. In his remarks to graduates, Rodriguez emphasized the transformative and lasting value of education.
“Education is the one thing nobody can ever take away from you,” Rodriguez said. “It is the key to your future.”
Graduate Angela Thomas delivered the student address, reflecting on perseverance, community, and the support systems that help students succeed.
“No one reaches a moment like this alone,” Thomas said. “It truly takes a village. Every graduate here represents the encouragement of family, friends, faculty, classmates, and communities that refused to let us give up.”
The ceremony also included a special recognition for Dr. Richard Gough, who will retire June 30 after serving as president of the college for more than 12 years. Dr. Gough was presented with the inaugural Commissioners Cup by Randy Dolyniuk, Chair of the TCL Area Commission, in recognition of his leadership and service to the college.
“For more than 12 years, it has been my privilege to serve this college and this region,” Gough said. “This is a remarkable institution serving a remarkable region.”