Darton gives students degrees

ALBANY, Ga. — Chantel Zaworski fidgeted nervously at the head of the line of black-robed graduates at Darton State College Tuesday night.

Part of her long journey was nearly complete and she wanted to get it over with. And why not? It took her 12 years to get there.

“Babies, marriage and life had other plans,” she answered when asked what took her so long. “But now that it’s here I’m excited, relived and know I have accomplished something good.

Zaworski was one of 383 graduates who received associate of science, associate of arts or associate of applied science degrees or certificates at Darton fall 2012 commencement in the college’s Cavalier Arena.

She plans on remaining at the college to earn her bachelor’s in nursing and wants a master’s degree after that.

Ed Creamer of Albany was about to receive his associate degree in respiratory therapy.

“I’m excited,” said the laid-off former Cooper Tire worker. “I will hopefully be able to get a job and do something positive with my life.”

Kadie Parks of Jesup was also ready to get started.

“I’m also excited,” said the newly minted physical therapy assistant. “After three and a half years of this I am ready to get a job.”

Former State Rep. Bob Hanner was the commencement’s keynote speaker.

“What you need to ask yourselves now is ‘how far can I go?'” Hanner said. “Your just sitting here tonight tells me you are above average. Earth’s greatest treasure is its collection of human personalities.

“Think of what human hands can and have built. Human hands, friendships and imaginations are powerful things. Combined you can do anything.”

Hanner then urged the crowd to make the world aware of them.

“Persistence has changed the world,” he said. “What is that that cannot be done? Make the world aware of your impact. Your task is to build a better world, God said, and in all of his wisdom said build a better you.

“Use your full potential. You might be surprised at what happens.”