Adult Learning Program Honors Students at End-of-Year Ceremony
Tracy Racicot, Director of the Center for Adult and Community Services, welcomed family and friends of the graduates with remarks about their recent accomplishments, and stressed the importance of education in two main points.
“Learning is the most essential thing that we can and must keep doing, and education can empower you to be the best you can be for yourself and your family,” said Ms. Racicot.
Westchester County Executive George Latimer delivered the keynote address focusing on discipline and the benefits of citizenship, the latter of which should not be taken for granted. He related to the adult learners in the audience with stories of his past as a lifelong resident of Westchester County.
“For those of you who earned your citizenship through this program, you know that it is invaluable, and it was earned through discipline and hard work,” he said. 
Mr. Latimer expressed how proud he is of all the graduates who have achieved something of value and worth and wished them all the best of luck in the future as productive citizens.
Also addressing the graduates was Joanne Dunn, executive director of the Youth Shelter Program of Westchester. Ms. Dunn said she too had an unconventional path to achieve her dreams and informed the graduates that we are not the value of our circumstances, and that there is a purpose in every situation.
“The journey of life is not easy, no matter how smooth or bumpy. There will be accidents, delays, and detours, but you will never be denied access to where you need to go,” said Ms. Dunn.
“You are here today because of one thought, one dream, one vision. Because you believed in this process, we are all here to celebrate you.”
The inspiring ceremony concluded with a presentation of roses to the Adult Learning Center faculty members, followed by the processional of new graduates to the school lobby, where they were greeted by proud family and friends.
