A group of high school seniors from Medical District High School will be the first in their class to graduate as college sophomores during Southwest Tennessee Community College’s 2025 commencement ceremony Thursday.
Among the 1,295 candidates set to receive a total of 1,312 degrees and certificates, 43 high school seniors from MDHS will earn dual credentials — an achievement that positions them ahead of their peers as they continue into higher education.
The students represent a groundbreaking partnership between Southwest and Memphis-Shelby County Schools. Opened in 2021 on the college’s Union Avenue Campus, MDHS allows students to graduate with both a high school diploma and an associate degree in either health science, information technology or general studies.
“These young scholars have shown extraordinary commitment and maturity — earning college degrees while still in high school,” said Tracy D. Hall, president of Southwest. “They are on a clear path to meaningful careers in high-demand fields. This head start not only empowers them with credentials, but also with confidence, purpose and a deeper understanding of what’s possible for their lives and families.”
Hannah Sweezer, valedictorian of the inaugural MDHS class, will serve as the student commencement speaker. She will graduate with an associate’s degree in health science along with a high school diploma. The Memphis native maintained a 4.73 GPA, served as both senior class president and the school’s first elected student government president, and was named to the Dean’s List for four consecutive years. Sweezer plans to attend the University of Tennessee at Knoxville to study biochemistry and aspires to become a physician.
“I knew that I always wanted to leave a legacy,” Sweezer said. “Doing dual enrollment here at Southwest excelled me beyond measure. Not only did I receive a degree at 18 years old, but I became the first valedictorian of my high school and the first high school student to speak at commencement. I have gained personal insight into the medical field and my future career, and to that I am forever grateful.”
Wakima Tutwiler, principal at MDHS, called Sweezer “a remarkable standard-bearer for all future graduates,” praising her passion for learning and leadership. “Hannah’s exceptional work ethic and relentless curiosity inspire her peers and garner admiration from her teachers. I am confident that she will continue to make a significant impact, setting a remarkable standard for future graduates of Medical District High School,” Tutwiler said.
Other MDHS graduates shared how the program helped shape their academic and professional goals.
Yamani Salgado, class salutatorian, will graduate with an associate degree in information technology and attend the University of Tennessee at Knoxville in the fall. A first-generation college student and oldest of three siblings, she credits the dual enrollment program with building her confidence and focus.
“Taking dual enrollment courses while in high school gave me a deeper understanding of strength, dedication, time management and communication. I am better prepared for my academic future in higher education,” Salgado said.
Javion White also will receive an associate degree in information technology. He plans to attend the University of Arkansas at Little Rock. He said the program helped him gain early experience in a college environment and introduced him to peers with similar aspirations.
“This program gifted me lifelong friendships and relationships with people with such bright futures,” White said. “It has also gifted me the opportunity to get a head start on college and my career by getting experience with professors and college classes while also gaining college credits.”
Memphis Mayor Paul Young will deliver the 2025 commencement address.
“Mayor Young’s commitment to education and job creation aligns perfectly with Southwest’s mission to empower students and strengthen our local workforce,” Hall said.
She said Southwest is a pipeline for Memphis’ future. More than 98% of Southwest graduates remain in the Memphis area, directly contributing to the local workforce and economy.
“Our students graduate career-ready and community-minded. Most importantly, they remain here to make a difference,” Hall said.
The graduation ceremony takes place at 7 p.m. Thursday at the Landers Center, 4560 Venture Drive in Southaven. It will be livestreamed on the college’s Facebook page at @SouthwestTN.
For more information, visit https://southwest.tn.edu/graduation/index.php
