Public Invited to Ceremony and Reception to Honor Graduates
JACKSONVILLE, Fla., April 25, 2018 – Pomp and circumstance will be the order of the day as Jacksonville Public Library celebrates the graduation of 20 students who have earned their GED diplomas with assistance and prep classes offered through the library’s Center for Adult Learning. Some students were part of Project LEAP, Library Enhanced Access Program, a library initiative that offers GED classes in neighborhood community centers. Family, friends, and members of the community are invited to attend the graduation to show support, and congratulate students for their hard-earned achievements.
WHEN: Tuesday, May 1
5:30 p.m.
Reception and refreshments following commencement
WHERE: Main Library, Hicks Auditorium
303 Laura St. N. – 32202
Graduates range in age from 19 to 61. Earning a GED has helped many students realize their dreams for a better future. Some are enrolled in—or plan to attend—college. One graduate currently enrolled at Florida State College intends to study biomedical science in forensics. Another graduate, employed in patient care for 10 years at Memorial Hospital, has been offered financial assistance by the employer for further education in a nursing program. Other graduates have obtained full-time jobs with benefits, including employers such as Amazon warehouse. And one graduate owns a massage therapy business.
Stories of new beginnings and second chances will highlight the event. The keynote speech will be delivered by Greg Gaines, longtime local radio personality, past weekend sports anchor for First Coast News and WJXT, and professional leadership speaker. Library Director Tim Rogers; Board of Library Trustees Chair Ronnie King; and GED graduate Maria Threat will also make remarks.
About Center for Adult Learning (CAL)
Since 1985 JPL has worked to meet the needs of limited readers and English learners through the Center for Adult Learning. CAL provides a community learning environment for adults who are no longer part of the K – 12 educational system as well as for adults who meet criteria for the English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) program. CAL offers GED prep classes and more at the Main Library and three library branches. CAL also offers GED classes through Project LEAP. Call 630-2426 more information about CAL.
About the Jacksonville Public Library
The mission of the Jacksonville Public Library is to enrich lives, build community and foster success by bringing people, information and ideas together. Last year, more than 3.4 million visits were made to Jacksonville Public Libraries, items were checked out more than 5.1 million times, and over 14,000 programs and services were offered to Duval County residents at the Main Library and 20 branch locations. For more information about the Jacksonville Public Library, call 630-BOOK (2665) or visit jaxpubliclibrary.org.
