La Plata, MD- The College of Southern Maryland (CSM) La Plata Campus was filled with emotion on Wednesday, Nov. 6, as friends and family gathered to honor 22 adult learners who overcame significant challenges to earn their high school diplomas. The event, marked by laughter, tears, and rounds of applause, celebrated the perseverance and dedication of these graduates.
“Tonight, we gather to celebrate your remarkable achievement – the culmination of hard work, determination, and resilience,” said CSM President Dr. Yolanda Wilson, addressing the graduates. “Each of you has embarked on a unique journey, and during this ceremony … you stand as testaments to what it means to be brave and what it means to pursue your dreams, no matter the obstacles. This is such a special occasion, and we are all so immensely proud of you.”
The ceremony highlighted the stories of the graduates, including student keynote speaker Ashley Dickerson, who drew cheers from the audience. “Seventeen years later, I’ve finally did it, and I can honestly say I’m very proud of myself,” Dickerson said. “Being here to celebrate with you all today is honestly one of the high points of my life.”
Dickerson shared her experiences in the National External Diploma Program (NEDP), which she described as “basically a bunch of 12-grade work piled into one. I’ve learned so much I didn’t know.” Her journey was supported by Trudy Rice, NEDP advisor/assessor at CSM, whom Dickerson praised for her patience and guidance. “Not only did I learn a lot of new things, I also gained a friend. Ms. Trudy was patient and very helpful,” Dickerson said. She admitted there were times she wanted to give up but persevered, finding that her instincts often proved correct. “I really enjoyed this program,” she added.
Reflecting on why she delayed finishing high school, Dickerson noted, “A lot of us have our reasons, and it’s not always because we’re not smart enough. Sometimes it’s personal, and for me, around that time, I had a lot going on. I worked two jobs that didn’t require me to have a high school diploma, so I never thought about it. I figured if I could find jobs where the high school diploma isn’t needed, then I’ll be good in life.”
Now, with her diploma in hand, Dickerson said she feels “unstoppable” and excited for future opportunities. “I can finally apply to any job I want,” she shared. “I can finally put my high school diploma on the wall next to [the degrees earned by] the rest of my family. If there’s anyone in the audience who doesn’t have a high school diploma yet, please understand that it is never too late.” She encouraged her fellow graduates to continue striving, adding, “You can be whatever you want to be because it’s never too late.”
To further support the graduates, the CSM Foundation awarded each with a $500 scholarship to continue their education at CSM. “The CSM Foundation graciously provides these funds through our Adult Education Scholarship program,” said Wilson. “It is our way to recognize and congratulate each of you for your hard work – and your courage – and it is our way to make true on our promise to walk your path with you.”
Additionally, graduate Jennifer Hudson received an extra $250 from the Dr. Richard Fleming Scholarship, bringing her total scholarship award to $750. Hudson, who resides in Calvert County, completed the NEDP in May and was recognized for her achievement.
Shaunda Holt, CSM’s Director of Adult and Community Education, outlined the Adult Education Program’s offerings, which include basic reading, writing, and math courses aimed at preparing students for the GED test or completing the NEDP. The program also provides English as a Second Language (ESL) classes to support non-native speakers with basic English and life skills. Most of these classes are free, thanks to funding from the Maryland Department of Labor, the U.S. Department of Education, and local contributions.
Holt emphasized that classes are offered both in-person and virtually, allowing for individualized learning experiences. The program even extends into Southern Maryland detention centers and the Jude House in Bel Alton to meet students’ unique needs.
“Graduates, as you leave here with your hard-earned diplomas and certificates, remember that learning is lifelong, and there are no limits to what you can achieve,” said Echo Salisbury, adult education specialist with the Maryland Department of Labor’s Adult Education and Literacy Services. “You have the power to transform not only your own lives but also the lives of those around you and your communities. It all starts with you, and the belief of not just ‘I can,’ but ‘I will.’”
Salisbury commended the graduates for their resilience. “In the face of change and challenges, you have proven that resolve and perseverance can lead to extraordinary achievements,” she said. “You are living proof that it is never too late to chase your dreams, acquire new skills, and make a positive impact on your own life and the lives of others.”
The graduates who received their diplomas and certificates were: Tariq Ceophas, Heavyn-Lorraine Childs, Makai Cosgrove, Ashley Dickerson, Tanko Djeri, Meryem Essalhi, Nicole Glover-Wright, Mary Hall, Jennifer Hudson, Nelson Loni, Jessica Lopez, Deseree Mason, David Miller, Stephanie Park, Rachael Ritchey, Arezo Saboor, Rachal Shifflett, Ghislain Brice Sithio Kapya, Therese Thacker, Qashara Wolfe, Alexander Woolwine, and Dominique Wotcheu.
View photos of the ceremony here. Learn more about CSM’s Adult Education programs here.
