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OIC Graduates the Class of 2010 Harrisburg (October 23) On Saturday, October 23, 2010, more than 100 academic and vocational students ranging in age from 17 to over 60 graduated from OIC’s adult education program. Graduation ceremonies held at the Zion Assembly of Harrisburg, Fifth and Maclay Streets, were well attended by families, friends, and supporters who watched as graduates processed into the church to strains of “Pomp and Circumstance,” played by OIC volunteer Sophia St. John–Brainerd. Members of the Class of 2010 come from four counties and attended classes at several OIC sites. Opening remarks by OIC Executive Director Jeffrey C. Woodyard set the tone for the event. His message: Never give up. Never give in. Never let go. Woodyard reminded the assembly of OIC’s commitment to students, never giving up on one who has a strong desire to move closer to self-sufficiency through education and training, never giving in to the roadblocks that students must confront, never letting go of the possibility that each student’s goal can be achieved, each dream fulfilled. Following an inspirational song by Kijuanna Wilson-Ewell, candidates for graduation were presented. Resplendent in white gowns, mortar boards, and blue-and-gold OIC tassels, each of the graduates crossed the stage to receive a diploma, many stopping at the podium to express their thanks to teachers, friends, and family. Academic awards were presented to graduates with the highest individual GED test scores. The Christian M. Rathfon Award, given in honor of OIC’s former board chair, was shared by Zachary Kinsey and David Szada, who received high honors on their GED examinations. Each received a certificate of recognition and a check for $100. Commencement speaker Michael Pries, Vice Chairman of the Dauphin County Commissioners, spoke eloquently about the importance of education and encouraged the graduates to continue their pursuit of learning. Pries’ sincerity and understanding of OIC’s mission was punctuated by his offer of an open door to any student who needed advice or encouragement. Scott Gould, OIC Board Secretary, also offered his help to any student interested in pursuing higher education. As ceremonies drew to a close, Pamela Cross of Miracle Life Church offered the benediction, and Master of Ceremonies Matt Lyter directed graduates and guests to the church reception hall for refreshments. Graduation ceremonies for the OIC Class of 2010 marked another successful year of transitioning our students to become better parents, better community members, and better workers. Thanks to the staff, volunteers, and supporters who made this possible. A community-based nonprofit agency, Tri-County OIC Adult Learning Center provides quality academic, vocational, workforce education, and family literacy classes to more than 1,200 students each year at 20 sites in Cumberland, Dauphin, Perry, and York counties. Tri-County OIC is located at 500 Maclay Street in Harrisburg, PA 17110; (717) 238-7318; www.tricountyoic.org. At OIC, we train people for life. Vision, the OIC of America newsletter Read/Download 2005 issue Informer, OIC newsletter Read/Download 2009 BookyMobile® issue OIC Update Read/Download September 2007 issue (Spay-Neuter Clinics) |
