2007

Robert A. Samsa (Business) competed in the June Tristate Powerlifting Championship at the Martins Ferry Recreational Center. Competing in the 198-ound weight class and the 20-24 age group, he set a national record in the bench press with a 400-pound lift. He also posted a 555-pound squat and a 550-pound deadlift to win the combined title in his division. Following the event, he won the award for best overall lifter at the competition. Robert is currently working towards a bachelor's degree at Ohio University Eastern.

Jonathan D. Stoehr (Information Technology) works as the Technology Coordinator at Mid-East Ohio Career and Technology Centers.

2006

Joy Blair (2006) received a bachelor's degree in Information Technology from Belmont Technical College and Franklin University . Joy works in the Belmont Technical College Learning Commons as the Information Services Specialist.

Lawrence Carmalt (2006) earned a bachelor's degree in Business Administration from Belmont Technical College and Franklin University .

John Cline (2006) received a bachelor's degree in Accounting from Belmont Technical College and Franklin University .

Jason Fahner (2006, Computer Science, Electronics/Telecommunications) is the bass player for a new Wheeling-area musical group, The Other Tribe .

Susan M. Niggemyer (Practical Nursing) is working as a LPN in a long-term care facility.

Ashley Ilene Nolte (2006, Criminal Justice) and Michael Joseph Conway married April 14, 2007.  Ashley is employed by Bob Evans in Martins Ferry and is attending OUE seeking a bachelor's degree in criminal justice.  The couple resides in Martins Ferry.

2005

Mary McLeskey (2005,Child Development/2006Mental Health) received the “Highest GPA in Major Award” in the senior class in social work at Bethany College . Mary is the daughter of Dr. Howard McLeskey, Belmont Technical College professor and program chair of mental health, and Elaine McLeskey, associate professor in child development at BTC.

Lisa Bennett (2005, Mental Health Technology) is a Mental Health Technician at Fox Run Hospital in St. Clairsville , Ohio .

Chesney Devine (2005, Multimedia and Graphic Design) is a PC Support Specialist in the IT Department at the Ohio Republican Party. She is completing requirements for a bachelor's degree in business information systems from DeVry in Columbus , Ohio .

Ryan Tremblay (2005, Systems Networking, Computer Science and Accounting) is the hardware/software specialist in the Belmont Technical College Computer Department. Ryan also holds CompTia A+ and Network+ certifications.

Vicki White (2005, Mental Health/Human Services) is a caseworker at a newly-opened homeless shelter in New Philadelphia .

Thomas Leon Garrison, Jr. (2005, Industrial Electronics) and Jessica Ann Kester married August 13, 2005. Thomas is employed with Johnson Boiler Works in Benwood , WV .

2004

Belinda Porter (2004, Micro-Computer Applications) works for Belmont Technical College as an administrative assistant for Marketing, Institutional Advancement and Recruitment.

Christopher Michael Suarez (2004, Industrial Maintenance) and Holly Lynn Lyons married January 5, 2006. Christopher is employed as an electrical foreman with McElroy Coal Mine.

2003

Larry Bevan (2003, Computer Science, Cisco) is the head of the technical department and an instructor in the networking and electrical technology field at Penn Commercial Business and Technical School in Washington , PA.

Chesney E. Devine (Web Design) graduated from DeVry University in Columbus, Ohio in October of 2006. She obtained a great job where she is using the skills she learned at both BTC and DeVry.

Paula Grabits (Medical Transcription) started working in July of 2003 for Dr. Carmel Shaw-Nieves, a psychiatrist in Bridgeport. In October of 2003, she began working from home doing dictations for Dr. Clements, a psychiatrist with his own practice and the Director of Fox Run Hospital. In December of 2003, she began working from home as the transcriptionist for Tri-County Help Center. As the transcriptionist for Tri-County Help Center, she works for three psychiatrists, two case managers, three counselors and one supervisor. After a few years, she also began teaching part-time at BTC. She was nominated and recognized in 2005 by the Who's Who of Executives and Professionals.

2002

Adrienne Burkhart (2002, Early Childhood Development) is administrator of Little Rocks Learning Center in Barnesville.

Kathy S. Howell (Criminal Justice) works as a correctional officer at Noble Correctional Institution in Ohio. In July of 2007, she earned her bachelor's degree online from American InterContinental University in Atlanta, GA while working full-time.

Matthew Lohmeyer (2002, Building Preservation and Restoration) is a restoration architect with Mesick, Cohen, Wilson and Baker Architects.

Amy (Brudzinski) Ogilbee (2002, Building Preservation and Restoration) was married in August, 2003, and gave birth to a son in June, 2005. She and her husband live on a dairy farm in Belmont County , Ohio .

Russell Reed (2002, Computer Graphics, Multimedia, Web Design, E-commerce) is the Assistant EMIS Coordinator for the Buckeye Local School District .

Scott M. Ryan Jr. (Firefighter/Paramedic) is an Operations Supervisor/EMT for a private ambulance company in Rhode Island. He recently married his wife, Christine.

2001

Randy Williams (2001, Paramedic) earned a bachelor's degree in Mortuary Science from Cincinnati College of Mortuary Science. He is a full-time faculty member at his alma mater and part-time gross anatomy instructor at the University of Cincinnati College of Medicine.

2000

Lance Matthew Cost (2000, Tooling and Machining) and Pamela Sue Smith married June 24, 2006. Lance is employed with Tri-State Machine in Wheeling .

Justin Matthew Friday (2000, Computer Graphics/Multimedia Programming) and Abby Leah Dearth married May 28, 2005. Justin is employed with Safe Auto Insurance Company.

Lori (Lyden) Hoffman (2000, Business/Retail Management) gave birth to a daughter, Brianna Marie, in October 2003.

Joy R. Horner (Administrative Assistant) has worked in the adjustments department at WesBanco Bank for over 5 years and loves her job. Since graduating, Joy has been blessed by another grandchild who is now four years old.

Sunessa (Smith) Miller (2000, Computer Graphics/Multimedia Programming) is a licensed insurance agent for Property and Casualty. She is employed with the Monroe County Economic Development Tourism Office and Monroe County Community Improvement Corporation.

Shannon Sechrest (2000, Building Preservation and Restoration) works for TeleTech in Wheeling as a specialist in the operations support center. She recently gave birth to a son and is to be married in June.

1999

Kimberly (Wells) Stillion (1999, Computer Programming, Business Management, Microcomputer Applications) is employed by the Diocese of Wheeling-Charleston and was recently promoted to the position of secretary for the Vicar General of the Diocese.

Linda Poland (1999, Microcomputer Applications) is employed as the Program Coordinator for the Workforce Development and Community Education Department at Belmont Technical College and teaches business and computer classes at Belmont Correctional Institute. She holds a bachelor's degree in Health from Ohio University .

Joel Allen Henderson (1999, Business Management) and Jade Danielle Blackmore married July 8, 2006. Joel is employed with Pittsburgh International Airport as a supervisor with US Airways.

Sammy Allen Milhoan (1999) and Michelle Rebecca Thomas married May 6, 2006. Sammy is employed with Wheeling Pittsburgh Steel as a drafter. Michelle is currently attending Belmont Technical College .

Bryan Edward Biglow (1999, Real Estate Management) and Lisa Ann West married October 22, 2005. Bryan is employed with JP Morgan Funds in Lewis Center, Ohio.

1998

Kim (Waide) Emfield (1998, Microcomputer Applications/Computer Science) and her husband, Darren, own Zontini's Pizza in Martins Ferry, OH.

Kimberly A. Garloch (Mental Health Technology) worked two jobs simultaneously during her last year of college that assisted the needs of troubled youth in the court and mental health systems. She continued this career path after graduation for 4 years. She began working with individuals who had developmental disabilities as a direct care professional. She worked as a residential supervisor for 3 years and witnessed a tremendous growth in the individuals she supported. She is currently an Operations Director with a company she has been with for years. She is a certified EMT and has numerous certifications for Behavior Support. She is also a certified First Aid and CPR Instructor. Kim currently trains new staff in Positive Behavior Support, Job Coaching Individuals With Disabilities, Effective Problem Solving, Supporting the Dually Diagnosed, Human Rights/Dignity and Respect, First Aid and CPR. She attributes her success as a direct result of the firm foundation received through the Mental Health program at BTC.

Kelly Loudin (1998, Business Management, Retail Management) is the Associate Dean of Workforce Development/Community Education/Evening and Weekend College at Belmont Technical College . She earned a bachelor's degree in Organizational Leadership from Wheeling Jesuit University and a master's degree in Strategic Leadership from Mountain State University . Kellie and her husband, Sid, have two children.

Kent Duane Haller (1998, Industrial Electronics, Mechanical Enginnering) and Jocelyn Marie Trubiano married June 17, 2006. Kent is employed with Home Depot.

1996

Janet Sempkowski (1996, Accounting) is Belmont Technical College 's Manager of Fiscal Operations. She is completing a degree in accounting from Wheeling Jesuit University .

Lori A. Wallace (Mental Health Technology) is currently working on a Master of Social Work through West Virginia University and working as a Victims Advocate for Tri-County Help Center in Monroe County.

1995

Zygmunt Tesniarz (1995, Electro/Mechanical Technologies) works as a Coil Maintenance Planner at TIMET Metals in Toronto , OH .

Terri Kovach (1995, Firefighter/Paramedic) is the fire chief in Steubenville , Ohio and the city's first female firefighter. She was the featured speaker at Jefferson Community College 's commencement ceremony on May 20, 2006

James Allen Greenwood (1995, Heating and Air Conditioning) and Nicole Jade Tisher married June 2, 2006. James is employed with Mellott Plumbing and Heating in Shadyside as a service technician.

1994

Melinda Marie Brothers (Business Management) works as a substitute teacher and is currently pursuing a master's degree.

Trish (Calwell) Landsittel (1994, Applied Science) published a book for gifted children in grades three through seven, entitled Puzzled By Math. A second book, tentatively titled Books & Blooms, is expected to be published this year. Trish earned two bachelor's degrees from Ohio University and a master's in education for Muskingum College . She works as a gifted intervention specialist for Southwest Licking School District .

1993

Rhonda Cooper (1993, Mental Health Technology) is teaching nursing assessment and mental health psychiatric nursing at Trinity School of Nursing and works part-time as a nurse practitioner for Dr. Ali Melhem. She earned a bachelor's degree in nursing from West Liberty State College in 1996 and a master's degree in family nurse practitioning in 2001 from Franciscan University of Steubenville.

Nathan L. Morris (Practical Nursing and Business) is currently working as a nurse and plans to continue his education.

Bob Pyle (Electrical Technologies) owns an appliance repair business that employees 19 people.

Michael D. Strough (1993, Computer Programming) and Jennifer L. Compston married October 2, 2005. Michael is employed as a computer technician, bartender, and magician.

1992

Joseph Rich (1992, Electro/Mechanical Technology) is a senior control technician with American Electric Power. He is working towards a bachelor's degree in applied management from Franklin University .

Tammy (Forshey) Jones (1992, Applied Business/Accounting) completed a bachelor of liberal arts degree in 1995 from Wheeling Jesuit College . She is the program manager for the Monroe Soil and Water Conservation District.

1991

Debra Hanlon-Hedtk (1991, Mental Health) earned master's degrees in Divinity and Counseling Ministries in 2006. She is a fully-ordained Baptist Minister who specializes in hospital chaplaincy.

1989

David Bader (1989, Manufacturing Technology) works for a leading logistics provider in the warehousing and transportation industry.

1988

Micahlene (Zalenski) Turner (1988, Applied Business/Accounting) is an administrative secretary in the Office of Development at West Liberty State College. She is married to David A. Turner, Jr.

Chuck Kreiter (1988, Computer Science and Accounting) is the lead systems programmer for mainframe systems at the State Auto Insurance Company in Columbus , OH .

Kevin Blanchard (1988) is a firefighter in Cambridge , Ohio .

Polly Potochnik (1988, Accounting) is employed as an accountant at Barnesville Hospital .

1987

Mary Jane Bruner (Medical Assisting) passed away April 9, 2007.  Jane worked for Bruner Land Co., for the past 15 years in Real Estate Sales, and also worked for Dr. Rangaswamy for five years. She was a member of Stop 9 Church of Christ.

1986

Kathy Stevens (1986, Business Management) is the Administrative Affairs and Policy Coordinator for Belmont Technical College . She received a bachelor's degree in business administration from Wheeling Jesuit University in 1995. Kathy and her husband, Scott, are the parents of a daughter, Hannah, 8.

1984

Edward T. Klug Jr. (Electrical Electronics) has been successfully employed in the telecommunications industry since graduation. He has managed a 40,000 sq. mile cellular phone system in Texas and worked in wireless labs for major telecommunications companies.

1983

Thomas Pickens (1983, Applied Science) spent four years in the US Navy and is working at Wheeling Island Racetrack and Gaming Center in the Surveillance Department.

David McLeod (1983, Computer Programming, Accounting) earned a bachelor's degree from Wheeling Jesuit University and a master's degree in education from Ohio University . He is a full-time faculty member at Belmont Technical College . David and his wife have two children.

1981

Su Simmons (1981, Practical Nursing) works as a Certified Professional Coder in Bridgeport .

1979

Tara Boyer (1979, Accounting) is the Treasurer and Chief Fiscal Officer of Bellaire Local Schools.

1976

Bettie Jo “BJ” Mellott (1976, Licensed Practical Nursing) is employed at Jobs, Etc. and teaches driver's education at Swiss Hills Vocational School . Bettie Jo earned a master's degree in education with majors in vocational counseling/community agency counseling. She also holds an undergraduate degree in medical social work with gerontology certification.

1975

Douglas David Besozzi (1975) from Cadiz , Ohio passed away on May 28, 2006.

1972

Vickie Bizic (Executive Secretarial) was employed by Belmont County Welfare Department (now Jobs and Family Services) for 30 years. During that time, she earned a bachelor's degree from Wheeling Jesuit University in human resource management. Vickie retired in 2002 and moved to Wilmington, North Carolina with her husband, Steve. She completed treatment for breast cancer in 2004 and is currently undergoing treatment for multiple myeloma. Vickie works part-time as an administrative assistance in a real estate and investment development company. She is enjoying life and is extremely happy to be alive! .

Marriages:

Richard S. Andrews and Rhonda K. Coulter, February 3, 2007. A veteran of the Navy, Richard is self-employed.

 Steve Emilio Vargo (Real Estate Certificate) and Lee Anne Berze, December 9, 2006. Steve is pursuing a degree in business administration from Franklin University and is employed by MetroScape Horticultural Landscape Services as a landscaper.

 2001
April Dawn Fullerton (Accounting) and Paul Michael Pachuta, August 18, 2007. April is employed by Central Parking System as an office manager.

Alicia M. Higgins (Nursing) and Jimmy L. Ostrander '02 (Electro-Mechanical Engineering), August 17, 2007. Alicia works as a licensed practical nurse at Wheeling Hospital. Jimmy is employed as an electrician for AEP at the Kammer Plant.

 2003
Jeffrey Allan Crowe (Industrial Technology) and Melissa Louise Ruckman, November 10, 2007. Jeffrey is employed by Consol Energy's Loveridge Mine.

 2004
Chad Eric D'Aquila (Business Management) and Emily Kate Griffin, October 6, 2007. Chad is employed by the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers, Local Union 141, in Wheeling.

 2005
Ryan Michael Guthrie (Criminal Justice) and Lori Ann Vicker, September 8, 2007. Ryan is employed by David Stanley Consultants.

 R. Robert “Robby” Kolb (Building Preservation and Restoration) and Misty Eppard, March 31, 2007. Robby is employed as an apprentice with Price Masonry in Madison Heights, Va.

 2006
Jennifer Lackie (Office Administration) and Trevor Witchey, September 22, 2007. Jennifer is employed at Harris Real Estate as a billing clerk. Trevor is a part-time economics and math instructor at Belmont Technical College.

2007
Jeremy Charles Binni (Mental Health Technology) and Jonie Elizabeth Snyder, April 21, 2007. At commencement, Jeremy was presented with the Humanitarian Award. He is in the process of completing a bachelor of science degree in mental health and human services at Franciscan University of Steubenville. He is employed at Dr. Lee Jones Miracles Happen Center for the Chemically Dependent as a Supportive Therapist. Jonie is currently attending Belmont Technical College with a double major in mental health technology and child development technology.

 Nicole Marie Brautigam and Stephen Andrew Kaminski III, September 15, 2007.

 Charles Edward Emery Jr. ( Tooling and Machining) and Jill Leann Edge, September 22, 2007. Charles is employed by the Ohio Valley Medical Center as a carpenter.

 Summer Leemae Taylor (Practical Nursing) and Justin Wayne Mozena, October 27, 2007.

In Memoriam:

1996
William L. Stidd , St. Clairsville, Ohio; November 10, 2007.

2003
Paul L. Fitzhugh Jr. , Columbus, Ohio; July 21, 2007.