|
There
were 59 students completing the GED program and 78 completing
programs at the English Language Institute. These students came
from countries worldwide. "Our reach extends throughout
the world," Richardson said.
Student
speakers included Timothy Petro, who earned an associate degree
in Education, and Mauricio Maza who moved to the area from Ecuador
and learned English skills at Mercer. Also telling their stories
were Michael Colon and Michelle Colon, father and daughter,
who completed the GED program together.
The
keynote speaker was Ana Berdecia of the Center for the Positive
Development of Urban Children at Thomas Edison State College.
She is a Mercer gradaute who credits the college with helping
her overcome odds that led her to a lifetime goal -- earning
her bachelor's and master's degrees. She spoke of each person's
talents coming as seeds that must develop in good soil so they
can become what they were meant to be. "Each of you is
designed to be something unique. Your seed is unique in the
world."
The
event featured MCCC Assistant Dean Don Jones, an accomplished
singer, as master of ceremonies. Trenton Mayor Douglas Palmer
lent his words of support, as did County Executive Brian Hughes,
who shook every student's hand as the award certificates were
handed out.
Seven student scholarship recipients were recognized by MCCC
Foundation Board Chair Timothy Losch.
MCCC
President Patricia Donohue said the awardees should look back
on their experience at Mercer as a series of successes, and
look toward the future as one where they will "give back
to the community."
After
the ceremony all enjoyed refreshments prepared by James Kerney
Campus culinary students.
More
photos here.
More
here about the programs and services offered at the James
Kerney Campus in downtown Trenton.
|
