Search | Menu Madison College celebrates 400 adult learners earning high school credentials
Madison College honored 400 graduates who earned their high school credentials through the college's General Educational Development (GED) and High School Equivalency Diploma (HSED) programs during its High School Completion Recognition Ceremony on June 3 at the Truax Campus.
The graduates represent a wide range of life experiences and backgrounds, including first-generation college students, migrant and seasonal farmworkers, incarcerated learners, multilingual students and adults returning to education after years away from the classroom. Their achievements mark significant milestones on pathways to college, careers and economic mobility.
Honoring accomplishments
The ceremony's keynote speaker, Alejandra Vazquez, knows that journey firsthand.
A former migrant student, first-generation Latina and alumna of Madison College's High School Equivalency Program (HEP), Vazquez stood before graduates and reflected on being in their position years ago.
"For every classroom you enter, every degree you earn, every program you complete, and every time your voice is heard, those are opportunities for you to open the door for someone else to succeed," Vazquez told graduates.
Opportunities await
After completing her HEP studies, Vazquez earned an Associate of Science in Criminal Justice-Law Enforcement from Madison College, followed by a bachelor's degree in Human Services and a master's degree in Educational Psychology and School Counseling.
Today, she serves as a high school counselor, helping students navigate academic, career and personal challenges while encouraging them to pursue their goals.
Vazquez encouraged graduates to honor their accomplishments and move forward with purpose during the June 3 ceremony.
Shaping the world
"Your world is unfolding now to see what you will become," Vazquez said. "Walk forward with courage, have faith, use your voice, and never forget that you belong and help shape the world."
The ceremony recognized graduates from Madison College's School of Academic Advancement, which provides educational opportunities for adult learners.
Graduates completed programs offered in both English and Spanish, including GED preparation, HSED completion, compulsory attendance law education, jail education, foreign credentialing assistance, and services for migrant and seasonal farmworkers and their families.
Madison College remains committed to helping learners of all ages and backgrounds achieve their educational goals and create new opportunities through earning a high school credential.
