Campus News
September 5th, 2023
Adults who 'moved mountains' earn high school diplomas
2020-23 Adult Basic Education graduates celebrated by Garrett College
Photo by Julie Yoder
Garrett College honored the 2020 through 2023 graduates of the Adult Basic Education Program last Wednesday night.
Forty-six Garrett County residents were honored last Wednesday night for earning their high school diplomas through the Adult Basic Education (ABE) program.
"Each of you came to us in different phases of your life, at different ages, and in different situations," said Kaitlyn Glotfelty, Garrett College's assistant director of professional and community education. "Our graduates also have different goals – job attainment, promotion, or other personal goals.
"What our graduates have in common," concluded Glotfelty, "is each of you have moved mountains to attain your goal."
Ahu Moser, adult education program specialist with the Maryland Department of Labor, agreed.
"Your hard work, dedication, and persistence has paid off," said Moser. "You have created an amazing achievement. But remember – your story doesn't end here. It's just starting, and the sky's the limit."
Due to COVID, Garrett College had not conducted high school graduation ceremonies since 2019. This year's event honored graduates from 2020 to 2023.
Makayla Malloy, one of four graduate speakers, said she learned one important key to success is "continuing to show up."
"I drilled into my head 'just show up' – and I made progress," said Malloy. "That progress gave me something I had lost – self-confidence."
Another student speaker, Kathy Schrock, said earning her high school diploma at 62 "was a great feeling of accomplishment."
"Today I'm the coordinator of a mental health wellness and recovery center where I facilitate groups, organize activities, and supervise the daily operations," added Schrock.
Brittany Titchnell said she wanted to earn her high school diploma as an example for her children.
"I want my children to know that, no matter what, you can reach your goals," said Titchnell.
