CSM Celebrates Achievements: 25 Adult Learners Earn High School Diplomas – The Southern Maryland Chronicle

CSM Honors Graduates from Adult Education Program

WALDORF, MD — In a heartfelt ceremony on November 1, the College of Southern Maryland (CSM) honored the achievements of 25 graduates from its Adult Education Program. Families, friends, faculty, and staff gathered to applaud the students who returned to school, earning their Maryland high school diplomas and proving that it is never too late to pursue one’s educational dreams.

The CSM Adult Education Program

The CSM Adult Education Program provides fundamental courses in reading, writing, and mathematics, empowering students to undertake the General Educational Development (GED) test or complete the National External Diploma Program (NEDP). With a commitment to accessibility, most classes are offered free of charge due to grants from the Maryland Department of Labor, the US Department of Education, and local contributions.

Recognition and Support

Addressing the graduates, CSM President Dr. Yolanda Wilson praised their courage, determination, and the strength displayed in returning to education. “You have exhibited strength of mind, strength of heart, and strength of will to carry on in spite of difficulties and obstacles. You have proven that, in fact, you can do anything you put your minds to – and because of that, you have inspired us.”

To further support the graduates, Dr. Wilson surprised them with the announcement of a $500 scholarship for each student, generously provided by the CSM Foundation. She reassured the graduates that CSM would continue to be a partner in their educational journey.

Individual Achievements

Among the recipients, Lillian Salek was awarded the $250 Dr. Richard Fleming Scholarship, in addition to the $500 scholarship, to assist her in furthering her education at CSM. The scholarship honors Dr. Fleming, a former CSM vice president, who played a pivotal role in establishing the Adult Basic Education/General Education Diploma (GED) program in Calvert and St. Mary’s counties.

Echo Salisbury, a program specialist from the Maryland Department of Labor, commended the graduates for proving that age is not a barrier to learning and that perseverance can lead to extraordinary achievements. She highlighted their stories as a testament to determination, inspiring everyone present.

Shaunda Holt, CSM Director of Adult and Community Education, expressed gratitude to the partners who contributed to the program’s success, including detention centers, Judy Centers, workforce development boards, and various youth services organizations.

GED graduate Tara Kettner, one of two student speakers, shared her journey of initially feeling hopeless after dropping out of high school. Through perseverance and dedication, she regained control over her life and now pursues her passions. Kettner encouraged her fellow graduates to persist in their dreams despite challenges.

List of Graduates

• A’Daytra Beverly
• Roquell Blue
• RoShonda Blue
• Bryan Budreau
• Phillip Cook
• Kouakou De Souza
• Gideon Ekong
• Diamond Ferguson
• T’mya Hebb
• Emily Heier
• Dawn Helms
• Tiffany Hoffman
• Antonio Irizarry
• Tara Kettner
• Micah Lewis
• David Morgan, Jr.
• Savannah Prince
• Lillian Salek
• Eric Shanholtz
• Dustin Stein
• Mina Butler Thomas

(Note: Four graduates requested that their names not be publicized.)

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SDGs, Targets, and Indicators

1. SDGs Addressed or Connected to the Issues

   • SDG 4: Quality Education
   • SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth

2. Specific Targets Based on the Article’s Content

   • Target 4.1: By 2030, ensure that all girls and boys complete free, equitable, and quality primary and secondary education leading to relevant and effective learning outcomes.
   • Target 4.4: By 2030, substantially increase the number of youth and adults who have relevant skills, including technical and vocational skills, for employment, decent jobs, and entrepreneurship.
   • Target 8.6: By 2020, substantially reduce the proportion of youth not in employment, education, or training.

3. Indicators Mentioned or Implied in the Article

   • Indicator 4.1.1: Proportion of children and young people (a) in grades 2/3; (b) at the end of primary; and (c) at the end of lower secondary achieving at least a minimum proficiency level in (i) reading and (ii) mathematics, by sex.
   • Indicator 4.4.1: Proportion of youth and adults with information and communications technology (ICT) skills, by type of skill.
   • Indicator 8.6.1: Proportion of youth (aged 15-24 years) not in education, employment, or training.

SDGs, Targets, and Indicators Table

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