At 2 p.m. On Friday August 26, 2016 the 2016 Fall Commencement class entered the gymnasium to the tune of “Pomp and Circumstance” as classmates, staff and guests stood out of respect. As the graduates made it to their places, everyone remained standing for the playing of the Star Spangled Banner. The invocation was pro-vided by Student Personnel Officer Stephen Fields. Following the invocation, Center Director Suzan Widener provided welcoming remarks and Business Community Liaison Mike Steele introduced the Honorable Dr. John H. Graham, Smyth County’s Clerk of the Circuit Court, as the guest speaker. Dr. Graham gave an amazing speech. He praised the volunteerism of the students and he proclaimed that “Blue Ridge Job Corps makes students M.A.D. (Make a Difference).” Dr. Graham encouraged everyone to go out and make a difference when they leave and to make a positive impression on everyone they meet. “Make sure at least one person says that you made a difference,” challenged Dr. Graham. Several Public Officials provided words of encouragement and commended the graduates on their milestones. Laura Blevins from Senator Tim Kaine’s office, and Cody Mumpower from Congressman Morgan Griffith’s office presented each graduate with a congratulatory letter. Isreal O’Quinn, Virginia Delegate from the 5th district offered many encouraging words to everyone and pressed the importance of vocational training.