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By MELANIE TEMPLE

Marketing & Recruitment/PIO

R-CCC

AHOSKIE – Roanoke-Chowan Community College (R-CCC) celebrated the graduation of the Class of 2025 on May 2 with a ceremony that highlighted academic achievement, community pride and stories of perseverance — none more touching than that of Kirk and Lauren Holloman, a husband-and-wife team who earned their degrees side by side.

The evening’s ceremony was further elevated by a keynote address from The Honorable Takiya Lewis Blalock, a Hertford County native and the newly elected District Court Judge for North Carolina’s District 7. Her inspiring message urged graduates to persevere with purpose, drawing on her own path from local roots to the bench.

Among the 136 graduates, the Hollomans stood out not only for their shared accomplishment but also for the unique journey that brought them there. Both longtime paramedics, the couple credited R-CCC with helping shape their careers from the start — and with giving them the flexibility and support to now earn degrees while working full-time and raising a family.

“I took my EMT and paramedic classes through R-CCC years ago and have been working in EMS for close to 15 years now. It’s always been my intention to return as an EMS instructor,” said Kirk Holloman. “When the state added a degree requirement for EMS instructors, I knew exactly where I needed to go.”

Lauren Holloman added, “After high school, I took a few classes through R-CCC. I then took my EMT and Paramedic classes through R-CCC. As a paramedic, I have to attend Con Ed classes and those are also through the college. When Kirk decided to return, I saw the opportunity to do it with him. I’d always wanted to finish my degree, and the timing was finally right.”

While graduating together was not part of their original plan, their synchronized schedules and shared coursework brought them to the stage at the same time—an achievement both called meaningful and memorable.

“We do everything together in life, so I’m happy we get to do this too,” Kirk said.

Lauren added, “We enjoy spending most of our time with each other, so I am glad to share this accomplishment with him.”

The Hollomans praised R-CCC’s flexible online offerings, supportive staff and dedicated instructors — especially William Blanchard and Amy Wiggins — for helping them succeed.

“The instructors and administrative staff at R-CCC are professional, flexible and truly invested in students,” Kirk said.

Asked what advice they’d give to others, both emphasized the importance of starting—no matter how long it takes.

“Your goals are possible,” Lauren said. “It’s never too late.”

Looking ahead, Kirk plans to pursue a bachelor’s degree at Western Carolina University. Lauren, meanwhile, hopes to apply her degree in her current role while focusing on family life.

Dr. Murray J. Williams, R-CCC President, commended the Class of 2025 and highlighted the Hollomans’ story as one of dedication and shared ambition.

“Graduation is a milestone not just for individuals but for families and communities,” said Dr. Williams. “Kirk and Lauren’s journey is a testament to resilience, partnership and the power of education.”

This year, R-CCC awarded 181 academic credentials, including 48 Associate in Applied Science degrees, 52 degrees, 73 certificates, and 8 diplomas. One student also earned a High School Equivalency diploma through the College and Career Readiness program.

Visit www.roanokechowan.edu or call 252-862-1200 for more information on R-CCC programs.