College celebrates Class of 2026 during annual Commencement Ceremony

Aiken Technical College held its 2026 Commencement Ceremony on Tuesday, May 5.

“Each milestone you reach is a reminder of the journey you have taken to get there. The journey to graduation may look different for each of you, but no matter what your journey looked like, you’ve made it. And that in itself is worth celebrating!” Aiken Tech President Dr. Forest Mahan told graduates.

Nearly 400 graduates have earned a certificate, diploma, or associate degree from the college.

During the event, the college also recognized its staff and faculty member of the year honorees.

The 2025-2026 Staff Member of the Year is Kevin McCarthy, director of facilities and operations.

In his role, McCarthy manages the college’s facilities and building services, ground services, custodial support operations, assists with emergency preparedness efforts, and has stepped in as an ex officio construction manager for the college’s various capital improvement projects.

One nominator wrote: “Much of Kevin’s work happens behind the scenes, yet it is essential to maintaining a safe, comfortable, and functional learning environment for students, faculty, and staff.”

The 2025-2026 Faculty Member of the Year is Keith Cusey, department chair for welding technology.

Cusey has been innovative in reimagining the structure of the welding program by creating stackable credentials that allow students to earn workforce-ready credentials on their path to an associate degree. He has also developed instructional videos to supplement and reinforce the skills students are learning in the classroom, which has improved access and overall completion rates.

One nominator wrote: “Through his leadership and dedication, Keith has strengthened the welding technology program and enhanced its reputation within the college and the local community…His commitment to quality instruction and program oversight contributes significantly to the success and growth of the department.”