Dreams
come true for 24 graduates
By
Veronica Gayle
Special to The News-Herald
Dreams
are the stuff of legend. We love those great stories of people
who overcame tremendous odds or imagined some previously unknown
idea and revolutionized a life or a whole society.
On Friday, June 15, 2007, 24 Owen County adults took the first
step in realizing their dreams at graduation ceremonies for GED.
The festivities began with the procession of students into the
meeting hall of the Owen County Extension Services building, where
friends and family waited to honor the graduates.
The invocation was offered by Kim Gilbert, Associate Pastor at
the Lighthouse Church, followed by the powerful voice of Connie
Hon singing “I Hope You Dance.”
The keynote speaker for the evening was Judge Elizabeth Lester,
who delivered a message of encouragement, motivation and congratulations.
Judge Lester listed a number of famous and noteworthy GED recipients
who have made great contributions to the world.
She encouraged the graduates to pursue their dreams, realizing
that there may be obstacles, but they can be overcome by remembering
your previous victories, being yourself and realizing that you
are not alone.
She challenged the graduates to continue to reach for their goals.
After Judge Lester concluded her challenge to the graduates, it
was time for the big moment when each GED recipient walked across
the stage to receive their certificate and shake hands with the
superintendent of Owen County Schools, Mark Cleveland, Veronica
Gayle, and Fannie Osborne, Instructors for Adult Education.
Two graduates were not available to receive their certificates
because they are currently serving in the military. SPC Brian
Henry accepted the certificate for Robert Green and had some inspiring
words to share about believing in yourself and realizing that
you can make a difference in the world.
Special awards were presented to High Achievers in each subject
area as well as an award for the Most Improved student. While
the song, “My Wish,” played in the background, Cleveland
declared the class graduated, tassels were switched from left
to right and smiles burst out on every face.
After the commencement ceremonies, there was a reception catered
by Sisterly Touch. Friends, family members and graduates all enjoyed
a time of fun, food and fellowship. Many photos of happy grads
and proud families were taken.
But more than that was the feeling in the air of accomplishment
and hope for a bright future for those who met the challenge and
got the GED.
Now their dreams really can come true.
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