OXFORD — More than 75 friends, family, and staff recognized and celebrated this year’s Oxford Hills Nezinscot Adult Education’s (OXNAE) 12 graduates, six of whom participated in the Commencement Exercises on June 11.
Director Tina Christophersen noted the graduates overcoming hurdles to obtain this huge accomplishment of a high school diploma or the High School Equivalency Diploma (the HiSET). The goals set by six of this year’s graduates include attending Central Maine Community College for Nursing, teaching art, pre-engineering, and Culinary pursuits. Three students are venturing into other post-secondary programs as well.
Commencement speaker Dr. Myung Kim, D.M.D., the owner of Crossway Family Dental, urged the graduates to celebrate their transformation fueled by their “persistence, grit, and courage.” Having a growth mindset and believing that abilities can grow and efforts do matter are key. He illustrated this by quoting his favorite Marvel character, Tony Stark: “It’s not about what we lost, it’s about how much we have left.”
Dr. Kim concluded with “Adult Education is about re-writing your story. . . You don’t have to be perfect to make a difference. You just have to keep going.”
Student speaker Heather French spoke to the audience about her two goals, one of which was to become a mom (which she is) and one of which is to be a school teacher. Heather is now working in the public schools and starting college in the fall. Citing the support of the Adult Education teachers and staff, “At every rough patch I hit, there was someone here to cheer me on.”
Heather ended by speaking to her fellow graduates, “You have done something powerful. You’ve earned this. It’s never too late. You are never too far behind, and you’re absolutely capable.”
Assistant Superintendent Steve Ciembroniewicz and Troy Ripley, Oxford Hills School District School Board Chair, helped award the student diplomas and offer support of congratulations.
Literacy Volunteers Arthur and Anne Lichtenstein were also recognized. This husband and wife duo have been volunteering for numerous years and have graciously helped support the program and local learners.
The paper program paid tribute to Gary Bartlett, a former beloved Adult Education teacher who was a “dear friend, colleague, teacher, and all-around good guy”.
For more information about OXNAE, please visit sad17.maineadulted.org or call 207-743-8842.