Melfa, VA –Thirty-two graduates participated in Eastern Shore Community College’s GED graduation ceremony held June 13 at Nandua High School.   Nelson Diaz, Program Coordinator for Telemon Corporation, was the commencement speaker.    Mr. Diaz shared his personal journey with graduates and encouraged them to have a larger vision for their lives
The Bill Duncil Memorial Award was presented to Rachael Spragg. The award is designed to honor the GED graduate who may not have made the highest scores, but who showed dedication and determination in pursuing their educational goals.  The award is given in memory of former GED Lead Teacher, Bill Duncil, who died in 2011. 

GED graduate, Steven Jones, was selected to give the graduate address.  Mr. Jones, once homeless, completed his GED and now works at Purdue.  Tia Green was recognized for earning the highest score.

Receiving GED diplomas were:   Enrique Hernandez Aguilar, Kelly Belge, Rogelio Delfin, Sedric Dennis, Veronne Drummond, Jr., Milton Uribe Fonseca, Haydee Leon Galindo, Blanca E. Garcia, Tia Green, Carolyn Ann Hernderson, Karl Hippensteel, Elizabeth Madison Ann Jensen, Steven Jones, Peggy S. Lollar, Claudia Lopez, Maria De La Luz Lopez, Samantha Melvin, Maria A. Miranda De Molina, Rozlyn Dale Phillips, Edwin J. Salamanca, Sadiqua Smith, Rachel Spragg, Ashley E. Stevens, Derrick Stratton, Olha Tiyechko, Jose’ Torres, Pierre M. Trower, Sanquina Upsher, Consuelo Vallecillo, Sharae Veney, Chelsie Wailes, and Yolanda Rivera Zavaleta.

The college’s adult education program helps adults prepare for the GED examination and  68 GED diplomas were awarded in the 2013-2014 fiscal year.   The high school equivalency certificate represents the completion of a rigorous, four-subject high school equivalency test that measures skills required by high schools and requested by colleges and employers. The four subjects are science, social studies, mathematical reasoning, and reasoning through language arts. 

Amy Shockley, Regional Adult Education Program Manager commented, “These graduates worked hard to achieve this milestone, often overcoming major obstacles to prepare for the test that provides them the high school credential needed for a better life.  I am especially pleased to report that 19 2013-2014 GED graduates are currently taking summer classes at ESCC or are in the registration process to begin college classes this fall.”    

More information is available by visiting the college website, es.vccs.edu, or by calling Chevelle Mason at 757-789-1794.