School of Education Celebrates Graduates

Aiken, SC (11/24/2020) — The University of South Carolina Aiken School of Education celebrated its fall 2020 graduates during its inaugural pinning ceremony, just hours before graduation.

Each graduate received a pin displaying symbols specific to the School of Education and represent their connection as educators. The pin's olive branches symbolize peace and acknowledge the Greek philosophers who laid the foundation for today's educational system. The blue ribbon represents the field of education as well as the university. A silver pin was presented to students who earned a Bachelor's degree in education, while a gold pin was presented to graduate students.

In addition, the award for Outstanding Intern is presented to a teacher candidate who was identified by the education faculty and staff as demonstrating exceptional practice and exemplary professionalism during student teaching. The award is given to one teacher candidate on each campus. The awardees are, Janae Simpson, Aiken campus, Bonnie Hunt, Salkehatchie campus, Jennifer Connelly, Palmetto College, and Samantha Gosselin, Sumter campus.

While this was the first School of Education pinning ceremony, Dr. Judy Beck, dean of the School of Education, believes this will become an important tradition for many years to come.

"The School of Education is extremely proud of our teacher candidates who are graduating this fall. This pinning ceremony is one way to show them how honored we are to welcome them to the noblest of professions - teaching."

Program Graduates

Bailey Arthur

Hannah Backman

Jennifer Connelly*

Lucas Davila

Christopher Deminck

Samantha Gosselin**

Hailey Ciomei

Bonnie Hunt***

Angela Hunter

Joshua Iaukea

Jordan A. Jackson