Southeastern Illinois College (SIC) recently marked a significant milestone with its first GED graduation ceremony since the inception of its Adult Education program in 2021. This landmark event celebrated the achievements of students who have worked diligently to obtain their Illinois high school equivalency diplomas, reflecting their dedication and perseverance.
The ceremony, held last week, was attended by approximately 50 people, including family members and friends of the graduates. Dr. Karen Weiss, President of SIC, opened the event by acknowledging the hard work of the students and underscoring the long-term benefits of earning a high school diploma. Her remarks highlighted the personal and professional opportunities that lie ahead for the graduates.
Assistant Director of Adult Education, Audrey Talbott, delivered a motivational address, emphasizing that earning a GED is a crucial step but just the beginning of a lifelong learning journey. Talbott encouraged the graduates to use their new diploma as a foundation for further education, vocational training, or career advancement. She stressed that the diploma is a powerful tool that can open many doors, and urged the graduates to continue seeking growth and excellence in their future endeavors.
SIC’s Adult Education program caters to individuals aged 17 and older who have not completed their high school education. The program offers preparatory courses in Reading and Language Arts, Math, Science, and Social Studies, and provides industry-recognized credentials for students with lower reading levels. In the past year, the program has seen 27 students successfully complete their GEDs, and others have passed a total of 138 individual exams. These achievements underscore the program’s commitment to helping students overcome challenges and achieve their educational goals, ultimately leading to improved self-esteem, career prospects, and personal growth.
