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As part of the Greater Easley Chamber of Commerce Annual Meeting and Awards Dinner on March 14, the chamber honored Dr. Ronnie L. Booth, President of Tri-County Technical College, as its annual recipient of the Duke Energy Citizenship and Service Award. Sponsored by Duke Energy, the Duke Energy Citizenship and Service Award pays tribute to individuals who use their time, talent and compassion to positively affect the lives of others in their communities or in the workplace. Recipients foster a culture of citizenship and service that acts as a catalyst for others to become involved in civic and social activities. Dr. Booth was honored for his 16 years of service and leadership to Tri-County Technical College and the state of South Carolina. During his time at Tri-County Technical College, Dr. Booth launched three community campuses, three QuickJobs Development Centers, a state-of-the-art Industrial Technology Center, and a one-of-a-kind Economic Development Center to train workers for new and expanding industries. In addition, he was instrumental in creating innovative educational programs such as Bridge to Clemson University, I-BEST Pathways, Gateway to College, Michelin Manufacturing Scholars, Technical Career Pathways, LPN to Professor, and CMT Empowering Education. Under his leadership, Tri-County Technical College has risen to top rankings in the State and nation. The College ranks highest in student success, transfer, and graduation rates in the S. C. Technical College System and ranks in the top 5% nationally for successful student transfers. In addition to his career success, Dr. Booth was also recognized as a dedicated community leader serving on the Board of Trustees for the Southern Association of Colleges, SENIOR Solutions, Community Colleges of Appalachia, Partnership for Academic and Career Education, and Tamassee DAR School. He is a former board member for the American Association of Community Colleges, Leadership South Carolina, and Anderson Area Chamber of Commerce. He has also served as president of the S.C. Technical College Presidents Association. Cindy Hopkins, President of the Greater Easley Chamber of Commerce, stated, “It’s an honor to recognize Dr. Booth’s service and leadership. His achievements in education and workforce development have greatly enhanced the economic landscape of our local community, our region and our state. And as a chamber of commerce, that’s speaks directly to our mission.”