LUMBERTON, N.C. — The Public Schools of Robeson County Early College High School (PSRC ECHS) held its commencement ceremony on Friday, May 23, 2025, honoring 42 graduating seniors during a ceremony filled with inspirational words, music, and celebration.
Family, friends, and community members gathered in the A.D. Lewis Auditorium at Robeson Community College to celebrate the achievements of the Class of 2025. The event recognized students who completed the rigorous Early College High School program—a partnership between the Public Schools of Robeson County and Robeson Community College—which allows students to graduate with both a high school diploma and either an associate degree or transferable college credits.
“Our goals are to create opportunities and empower scholars to soar into their future with confidence and knowledge,” said PSRC ECHS Principal Andrew Davis in a statement. “Today, we celebrate not just the culmination of their high school journey, but also the foundation they have built for lifelong success.”
Some members of the graduating class had already walked across the stage during Robeson Community College’s commencement ceremony on May 14, marking a dual celebration of academic accomplishment.
“You know what they say about eagles, they don’t just fly, they soar above the storm. You didn’t just follow the path, you forged your own,” Principal Davis said during the Friday commencement ceremony.
“Never forget who you are. You rise when others run. You see opportunities when others see limits. Go forward with courage and confidence. Spread your wings, the world is waiting for you,” Davis added.
Robeson Community College President Melissa Singler also addressed the graduates, congratulating them on their resilience and commitment to excellence. Singler encouraged students to continue their academic journey, sharing that RCC is proud of them and is here for them as they consider their next steps to further their education or prepare to enter the workforce.
“What a beautiful and blessed day to graduate,” she said.
Singler encouraged students to put their education into action.
“It will be up to you to define how you use your expertise. You all have the power to change the world and make it a better place. Rest assured graduates you are needed,” she said.
The ceremony opened with the Posting of the Colors by the Tornado Battalion Color Guard from Fairmont High School, followed by the National Anthem performed by ECHS Senior Abigail Jacobs. PSRC ECHS Senior and Chief Academic Scholar Emma Scott welcomed attendees, and Senior Lauren Brooks delivered the invocation.
Additional program highlights included the ECHS Senior Choir’s performances of "Soar Now, Eagles” and “The Journey” by H.E.R., as well as a heartfelt student address by Daniel Zeng, an ECHS Advanced Senior.
“Here we are now commencement which means to begin,” Zeng said.
Zeng reflected on the seniors’ educational journey to the stage, noting many obstacles including COVID-19 and the loss of a fellow ECHS Eagle Ethan Brown who passed away in 2023.
Zeng, the Class of 2025, and all in attendance honored Brown with a moment of silence.
Zeng encouraged his peers to think about what 2025 has meant to them.
“Let these numbers stand as something you can reflect on with joy and pride,” he said.
He encouraged his classmates to “treasure the journey, embrace the highs and lows” and always seek joy, especially in life’s challenging moments.
“You are my friends, my inspiration and my hope for a better tomorrow,” Zeng said.
PSRC Superintendent Dr. Freddie Williamson joined PSRC Board of Education members, PSRC Cabinet members, and Robeson Community College officials in congratulating each graduate as they received their diplomas.
“Your education is a foundation that no one can ever take from you. It has equipped you with the knowledge, skills, and character needed to lead with confidence and serve with compassion. As you go forward, I encourage you to use what you’ve learned not only for your own success but to make the world a better place,” PSRC Superintendent Dr. Freddie Williamson said in a statement.
The Class of 2025 recessed to “Pomp and Circumstance” by Sir Edward Elgar, marking the end of their high school journey and the beginning of their next chapter.