June 22, 2026 - The first class of Trident Technical College’s Leadership Academy graduated June 19, concluding a nine-month journey focused on leadership development, collaboration and professional growth.
Launched in September, the Leadership Academy brought together a cohort of employees for monthly sessions led by President’s Cabinet members and guest contributors. The program, a vision of TTC President Dr. Vicky Wood, followed a structured curriculum that progressed from foundational leadership principles to more advanced, strategic applications.
"When we launched Trident’s Leadership Academy, we hoped to create a program that would strengthen leadership capacity across the college,” said Dr. Wood. “The results exceeded our expectations. The enthusiasm, engagement and commitment demonstrated by the participants affirmed the value of investing in our employees and preparing the next generation of leaders at Trident Technical College."
Participants explored topics including leadership styles and self-awareness, strategic thinking, effective communication, and emotional intelligence. As the program progressed, sessions focused on leading through change, law and ethics, conflict resolution, coaching and talent development, and performance management.
“The Leadership Academy emphasized practical application, encouraging participants to engage in real-world scenarios, case studies, and leadership discussions relevant to the technical college environment, and TTC specifically,” said Dr. Patrice Davis, VP for Student Services and coordinator of the program. “The experience culminated in capstone reflections, allowing participants to assess their growth and plan for continued leadership development.”
The June 19 graduation event recognized not only the participants’ commitment to professional growth, but also the college’s investment in developing a strong, future-ready leadership pipeline.
“The facilitators created meaningful learning and engaging sessions,” said TTC Registrar Morgan LaForge. “Every month I walked away with a new tool or approach that I could immediately apply in my role,” she said, adding, “Leadership Academy was a great professional development opportunity, and I appreciate being selected as part of the inaugural class.”
Dr. Laurence Neely, department head of TTC’s Biological Sciences Department, said that Leadership Academy was a valuable experience, both professionally and personally.
“Moving forward, I know this experience will shape how I approach both leadership and project management with the Biological Sciences Department,” he said. “Overall, the Leadership Academy has helped me grow as a leader and has given me tools I can use to better support my team and contribute to the college.”
Congratulations to the 2025-26 Graduating Class Members: Tina Ahlemann, Victor Boudolf III, Brandon Branham, Cheryl Burton, Charlotta Creel, Sonya Cromwell, Ronald Darce, Gamellia Davis, Elliott DeMerell, Belinda Green, George Greene, Daniel Istoc, Lisa Jeffries, Andrew Johnson, Stanley Johnson, Morgan LaForge, James Lewis, Linda Martinez, Sean McGowan, Lydia Murray, Laurence Neely, Ashley Newton, Rochelle Ojugbeli, Tanisha Seraphin, Bryan Smith, Frank Smith, Jennifer Sturak, Maria Twenter and LaQuinta Yates.