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Commissioner Helen Rosemond-Saunders Celebrates 30 Years of Service, Receives Order of The Silver Crescent

Helen Rosemond-Saunders arrived an hour early to the Tri-County Technical College Commission meeting on June 12 excited to celebrate her 30 years of service on TCTC’s governing board at a special luncheon with TCTC President Galen DeHay, fellow Commission members and family. One guest she didn’t expect was Senator Thomas Alexander, who joined the crowd and presented her with the Order of the Silver Crescent, the state’s highest civilian award.

The honor is awarded by the governor to individuals who have made significant contributions through leadership and volunteerism, and have been a lifelong influence on a region or community. The honoree receives a certificate signed by the governor and bears an impression of the state seal.

Commissioner Rosemond-Saunders has been an advocate for community and technical college education her entire career, said Senator Alexander. President DeHay added that the retired educator “is known for her determined efforts to improve the community and postsecondary education, particularly for minority populations and first-generation college students.”

“Her passion for education has been at the forefront of everything she has done in her professional career as an educator, in her community and while serving three decades on the TCTC Commission. She has impacted so many lives as she has guided students to success. She is a shining example for all to follow,” said Senator Alexander.

“This award is a recognition of her lifelong service to her family, her church, her community and Tri-County Technical College. I am so pleased the governor has honored her with the Order of the Silver Crescent and I am honored to present this award today,” Senator Alexander said.

In recognition of her tireless service to TCTC, the Oconee community and the state of South Carolina, the TCTC Foundation has established a scholarship in her name. The Helen Rosemond-Saunders Scholarship is endowed and will support students of color who reside in Oconee County.

Rosemond-Saunders was appointed to serve on the TCTC Commission in 1993. In 1997 she was elected vice chair and later served as chair from 2007 to 2011. Currently she serves on the Curriculum and Instruction Committee.

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