<p><strong>COLUMBIA —</strong> Columbia State Community College celebrated 478 degree and certificate candidates at fall commencement ceremonies on Saturday, December 13, according to the college. The ceremony in the Webster Athletic Center featured remarks from College President Dr. Janet F. Smith and guest speaker Robert Rogers, a Columbia native and dealer principal for Parks Motor Sales.</p><p>Rogers, who attended Columbia State before transferring to and graduating cum laude from Middle Tennessee State University in 2003, reflected on achievement and commitment. "Today is a special day for several reasons," Smith said. "First and foremost, it is a day of celebration of accomplishments. It is a day of recognition that these soon-to-be graduates set a goal and accomplished it." Rogers remains active in the community through his service on the Columbia State Foundation Board and previous roles with the Maury Alliance.</p>