“The Upper Cumberland Human Resource Agency in conjunction with Lakeside Resort and Educational Complex and Tennessee Technological University honored 12 students during a recent graduation program held at Lakeside resort near Smithville. Students received certificates from Lakeside and TTU, showing completion of the 18-week program that uses hands-on experience in the resort and food industry along with classroom instruction.” Milburn Rodgers, Lakeside’s General Manager announced. This program, funded by the Tennessee Department of Labor, is a comprehensive study of the food service business.

“This program has served as a stepping stone in the careers of many students and we look forward to being able to offer this opportunity to many more.” said Phyllis Bennett, Executive Director of UCHRA. “It’s also a privilege to work with Tennessee Tech in this area of extended education.

The welcome and introductions were presented by Randy Shelton, Lakeside’s Sales, Marketing, and Education Coordinator, who praised the students for their accomplishment. “We are extremely proud of our students, who have worked so hard to accomplish their goals.” said Shelton,

Keynote speaker, George Halford, President/CEO of the Cookeville-Putnam County Chamber of Commerce, also praised the students for their efforts and reminded them of the support group through families and friends. In a speech centered on being given opportunities, Halford stated “This industry is on the front lines of customer service. Take advantage of the opportunity you have been given by selling our community and our way of life.”

The Spring Class of 2010 was the twelfth to graduate in the program since it restarted in 2004.

This program, over the last 5 years, has an employment rate of 85% of the graduates.

Also speaking at the commencement was Dr. Susan Elkins, Vice-President of Extended Programs and Regional Development from TTU. Her advice to the students was simple: ““A” is it’s all about attitude, “B”, there will be bumps in the road, but you can bounce back, and “C” you need to have courage.” Dr. Elkins also credited Ms. Bennett for being an inspiration and mentor early in Elkin’s career. Class instructor, Bob Sotis, presented each student with a certificate from Lakeside Education and Tennessee Tech.

If you are interested in applying or want more information, you can call Lakeside Resort at 1-888-839-4799 or 1-615-597-4298 and speak to Randy Shelton.

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Cutline (entire class): Attending the Graduation Ceremony at Lakeside Resort: Front Row -- Shannon Vickers, UCHRA; Milburn Rodgers, Lakeside General Manager; Randy Shelton, Lakeside’s Sales, Marketing, and Education Coordinator; Dr. Susan Elkins, TTU’s Vice-President of Extended Programs and Regional Development; George Halford, President/CEO of the Cookeville-Putnam County Chamber of Commerce; and Bob Sotis, Class Instructor.

Second Row --- Howard Duke, Marie Montgomery, Tabitha Johnson, Danielle Bray (Dekalb County), Joan Gifford, and Jamie Armstrong.

Third Row --- Heather Colwell (Dekalb County), Michel Beach, Markus Williams, Lisa Arnold (Dekalb County), Robbie Stewart, and Wes Harris.