"There have been times when we have gotten discouraged--times we wanted to quit. There were even those around us who said we wouldn't make it. But, through this process of being tried and tested, we persevered--overcoming doubt and fear."
-Melody Shakesnyder
GED graduate and student speaker
Taking their seats, students sat poised and ready to be recognized for their many accomplishments during their time at Literacy Action. For many, these accomplishments included perfect attendance, moving up a level in class or being recognized for their dedication. For others, this marked a milestone in their lives by receiving their GED. For whatever the reason, one thing was clear, it was their time to shine! GED graduate Melody Shakesnyder addressed her fellow GED graduates and students motivating and encouraging them to continue moving forward. "My challenge to all of us is to move with a plan. Let's not think just one step ahead, but ten steps. This is not the end. It's not enough to have the gold."
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| GED graduates and program completers. |
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| LAI student and program completer. |
Following a powerful introduction by LAI student Lonnie Baker, the ceremony's keynote speaker, Fulton County District Attorney Paul Howard Jr., addressed the students explaining that unlike many others in their situation, "they have placed themselves in the right position by taking the first step toward furthering their education." Howard continued by saying that even though milestones have been reached and personal goals have been met, the work does not stop here. He instructed them to "stay humble and continue to set goals and reach for them."
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| Fulton County District Attorney, Paul Howard Jr., and GED graduates. |
The time to distribute certificates and awards had arrived and students and their family members could not be more excited. As each name was called and students walked across the stage, the auditorium erupted in celebratory chants, applause and proud testimonies that only gave a glimpse into the struggle that many of our students had endure to reach this moment. As one student walked across the stage smiling in her blue cap and gown with gold tassel, a cry came from the audience "that's my mom!". The excitement and joy of that student's son was shared throughout the audience. Walking across the stage were people whose lives had been transformed by the power of an education!
Surrounded by family, friends, board members, staff, volunteers, teachers and Atlanta community members, LAI students were able to share their accomplishments with just a small part of a larger community that understands the importance of an education and the continued struggle adult learners have to endure to make their goals a reality.
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| GED graduate and family. |
Special Thanks to the following sponsors who helped make the Student Recognition Ceremony a success.
Georgia-Pacific
Sheila Weidman-Farley
Vice President, Corporate Communications and Marketing
JaKathryn Ross
Executive Director, YE-Atlanta Georgia Pacific and LAI Board Member
Naomi Deal
Shannon Fitzgibbon
North Highland Company
Dave Peterson
Chairman and LAI Board Chair
Mr. H. James Dallas
Benchmark Trophy Center
Collins Digital Imaging, Inc.
RussCorp Graphics
