Mitchell Community College proudly celebrated the achievements of its 2026 Paramedic Program graduates during a commencement ceremony held August 13 in Shearer Hall. The ceremony honored 11 students who successfully completed the College’s rigorous paramedic training program and are prepared to provide advanced emergency medical care throughout the region.
The event included remarks from Mitchell’s Vice President for Workforce Development and Continuing Education, David Bullins; Paramedic Program Lead Instructor Amanda Wallace; student spokesperson Kaela Richards; and keynote speaker Thomas Pinkerton, an adjunct instructor in the program. Summer Kivett, EMS Clinical Coordinator at Mitchell Community College and paramedic with Iredell County EMS, led graduates in the Paramedic Oath and delivered closing remarks.
Mitchell’s Paramedic Initial Training Program is an intensive, college-level course that includes approximately 1,200 hours of classroom instruction, simulation-based training, hospital clinical rotations, and supervised field internships. Through the program, students develop expertise in advanced airway management, cardiac care, trauma response, medication administration, pediatric and obstetric emergencies, and other critical life-saving skills. The curriculum also emphasizes leadership, critical thinking, effective communication, and decision-making in high-stress environments.
“Becoming a paramedic is no easy task. It takes strength, perseverance, and a deep sense of purpose. Over the past year, each of you has faced challenges that have tested you to your limit but your determination has pulled you through all the hurdles you had to overcome during this program,” said Amanda Wallace, Paramedic Program Lead Instructor. “That same determination you had to get through this program is going to carry you through your career. Because being a paramedic isn’t just a profession, it’s a calling.”