Mountain Gateway Community College Celebrates the Class of 2025
Clifton Forge, Va. - Mountain Gateway Community College (MGCC) proudly celebrated the achievements of the Class of 2025 at its 58th Commencement Ceremony on Friday, May 9, in the MGCC Convocation Center. The event brought together faculty, staff, families, and community leaders to honor graduates who earned associate degrees, certificates, and workforce credentials.
The National Anthem was performed by 2016 MGCC graduate Mahaley Reyns-Broughman, and the platform party included College Board members, MGCC Educational Foundation leaders, and retiring faculty member Mike Bryant, who was recognized for his dedicated service as a welding instructor and Mace Bearer.
MGCC President Dr. John Rainone then officially opened the ceremony with heartfelt remarks.
See more photos from Commencement 2025 on our Facebook page.
“You’ve worked hard, overcome challenges, and shown extraordinary dedication to reach this point,” Rainone said. “Do not let the sight of hundreds in caps and gowns fool you into thinking this was easy—it wasn’t. Enrolling in college takes courage. Finishing takes tenacity.”
Following his address, Dr. Rainone welcomed Local College Board Chair Marylin Alexander, who offered an inspiring message of encouragement and pride to the graduates.
“You are ready and well-equipped for what is ahead of you,” Alexander said. “You not only had the audacity to take charge of your life, but you also surpassed every obstacle before you. YOU did that.”
This year’s graduating class demonstrated outstanding academic, professional, and personal achievements. A total of 85 high school students earned 109 credentials, certificates, and degrees through MGCC’s dual enrollment programs. In fact, 35% of graduates began their journey while still in high school, and 70% paid no tuition thanks to scholarships or Virginia’s G3 program. Ninety percent of the class is already employed or has immediate plans to transfer to a four-year institution, with over 90% of applicants accepted. Additionally, more than 360 workforce credentials were awarded.
The Class of 2025 also includes a number of remarkable personal stories: an uncle and niece graduated together, a mother and daughter earned phlebotomy technician certifications, and one graduate received three associate degrees. One student is already contributing to pediatric liver transplant efforts through her employer. And at just 17 years old, Baylee Slagle is set to become Old Dominion University’s youngest graduate this year after completing her RN to BSN degree—all while volunteering as an EMT.
The Gary Lee Miller Outstanding Graduate Award—named for the MGCC alumnus and Medal of Honor recipient—was presented to Kyleigh Mills, a student-athlete, entrepreneur, and community volunteer from Botetourt County. She earned multiple academic honors, including the Foreign Language Excellence Award and service as Student Marshal.
Dr. Ben Worth, Vice President of Academic Affairs, presented the award.
“Kyleigh has balanced her academic pursuits with athletics, service, and entrepreneurship in a way that embodies the legacy of Gary Lee Miller. Her impact will be felt far beyond this campus.”
Delivering the Student Commencement Address was Casey Southall, a non-traditional student from Covington who returned to college at age 42 after a global career in international business and bomb disposal.
“Whether you started college while in high school, right after high school, or in your 40s like me,” Southall said, “there’s one thing that can’t be replaced, and that is real-world, hands-on experience.”
The Distinguished Alumni Award was presented to Deana Williams, a respected educator and proud MGCC alumna. In her address, she reflected on the college’s lasting impact on her life and career.
“I came to MGCC as a young woman with a dream,” she said. “The faculty here saw something in me before I saw it in myself. My time at MGCC laid the foundation for a life of purpose and service.”
She added, “We need each other—our families, our teachers, our communities—to lift us up,” encouraging graduates to “be the steady, kind, and encouraging presence” in the lives of others.
The ceremony also acknowledged the crucial role of families, faculty, and the broader community in helping students succeed.
“Graduates,” Rainone reminded, “take a moment to thank your loved ones. None of us gets here alone.”
MGCC’s 58th Commencement was not just a ceremony—it was a celebration of perseverance, transformation, and the promise of what lies ahead. Congratulations to the Class of 2025!
It’s never too late to start your journey in education. Open the gateway to your future at Mountain Gateway Community College. Enroll in summer or fall classes today. Flexible scheduling is available—call Student Services at 540-863-2820.