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�鶹��Ƶ (�鶹��Ƶ) recently dedicated a welding lab in memory of alumnus Austin “Grey” Hamlett.

A large sign bearing Hamlett’s initials that reads “Live Like Grey” now adorns the welding lab’s wall in the William H. "Billy" O'Dell Upstate Center for Manufacturing Excellence on �鶹��Ƶ’s Greenwood Campus.

Hamlett died in July 2022 from injuries that he suffered in a motor-vehicle accident. He was 22.

His mother, Cynthia Hamlett-Dorsey, spoke at the welding lab dedication.

“Not a single day goes by that I do not think about Grey,” she said. “I miss his voice, his smile, his hugs and all of the little things that made him uniquely him. Most of all, I miss those big brown eyes. Simply put, I miss my son.”

Hamlett graduated from �鶹��Ƶ’s Welding Program in 2021.

“Today is especially meaningful because it celebrates something that Grey loved,” his mother said. “He had a passion for welding.”

She said, “It is only fitting that the future generation of welders will learn and grow in a classroom hearing his name – my son’s name.”

In addition to the recent welding lab dedication, the Grey Hamlett Welding Scholarship was created by his family and friends a few months after this death.

“The scholarship established in Grey’s memory and the dedication of this welding classroom will ensure his legacy will continue for years to come,” Hamlett-Dorsey said. “Students who never had a chance to meet Grey will benefit from opportunities created in his honor – and that means the world to me.”

She also thanked �鶹��Ƶ officials.

“Your willingness to honor Grey in such a permanent and meaningful way is something our family will cherish forever.”

�鶹��Ƶ Development Director Laura H. Dudley said the dedication ceremony was “a very special moment for �鶹��Ƶ. But more importantly, it is a moment to reflect on the incredible legacy of Austin Grey Hamlett.”

“Grey was a talented welder and a proud �鶹��Ƶ graduate and someone who clearly made a lasting impression on everyone he met,” Dudley said. “His life reminds us that it’s not just what you build with your hands but it’s what you build with your heart.”

Welcoming Hamlett’s family and other guests to the event, �鶹��Ƶ President Dr. Hope E. Rivers said the welding lab dedication “completely warms my heart.”

She said the occasion symbolizes what �鶹��Ƶ “is all about – creating memories, bringing families together.”

“This moment matters,” Rivers said.

Hamlett’s mother ended her remarks on a poignant note.

“While I wish more than anything Grey could be standing right here, I am incredibly proud that his life continues to make a difference,” she said. “I love you Grey, I miss you every single day and I always will.”