Twelve students from Walker County and surrounding communities were recognized Thursday, June 11, as they received their High School Equivalency (HSE) diplomas through the Youth Success Academy (YSA) at Georgia Northwestern Technical College (GNTC).
The graduation ceremony was held at Peavine Baptist Church in Rock Spring and celebrated students who completed the academy’s program designed to help out-of-school youth earn their HSE diplomas while preparing for future education and career opportunities.
Tammy Pence, Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) Youth Specialist at GNTC, welcomed graduates, families and guests to the ceremony. LaRae Eveans, WIOA Youth Instructional Aide, delivered the charge to the graduates, while Vince Stalling, WIOA Youth Services Coordinator, saluted the graduating class.
Hope Gold, Youth Services Instructor at GNTC, served as the commencement speaker and encouraged graduates to carry courage, kindness and resilience with them as they move forward.
“As you move forward, I hope you remember three things. First, be courageous and brave,” Gold said. “Courage is not the absence of fear. It’s moving forward, even when fear is present. Remember that growth happens when we step beyond what is comfortable.”
Gold also challenged graduates to make kindness a priority and to remain resilient when facing life’s obstacles.
“Never underestimate the impact of a kind word, a helping hand or a moment of compassion,” she said. “Success is meaningful; character is what leaves you a lasting legacy.”
The graduates recognized during the ceremony were William Gabe Abbott of LaFayette, Jasmine Cardozo of LaFayette, Khloe Davis of LaFayette, Alexzander Edgeman of LaFayette, Julia Finch of LaFayette, Brayden Gibson of Chickamauga, Autumn Godfrey of LaFayette, Beau Jackson of Dalton, Ahlecksa Johnson of Chickamauga, Zoey Laney of Rising Fawn, Elizabeth Nicoson of LaFayette and Andrew Owsiak of LaFayette.
During the ceremony, program officials also recognized the Northwest Georgia Regional Commission and Pearson Vue Test Administrator for their continued support of the Walker County Youth Success Academy program.
The Youth Success Academy is a partnership between Georgia Northwestern Technical College and the Northwest Georgia Regional Development Center. The program helps young adults earn their HSE diplomas while participating in job readiness training, leadership development activities and career exploration opportunities.
In addition to preparing students for HSE testing, the academy assists eligible adults up to age 24 with college enrollment, educational expenses and opportunities to gain experience in various career fields.
For more information about the Walker County Youth Success Academy, contact the program at 706-764-3783.