San Pedro Adult Continuing Education (SPACE) held its fifth Commencement Exercises on Sunday, June 11th at the Angel Nuñez Auditorium. The graduating class of 2017 saw 16 students, march to the tune of Pomp and Circumstance, proud of their achievement after a four-year educational journey.
Master of Ceremonies Phillip Ramsey led the graduation ceremony shortly after 10AM under the theme ‘The journey of education begins with a single step.’ Family and friends joined the graduates in singing the national anthem. Miriam Rodriguez delivered the invocation. This was followed by the salutatory address by Josie Castellanos.
Shortly after, Director of SPACE Paul Kelly gave the Director’s Report. He congratulated the students who had excelled in both CXC and ATLIB examinations. He also stated that SPACE seeks to expand and include sustainable vocational courses to make students more skilful and assist in building homes for families on the island that are in need of a proper home. Kelly also acknowledged the island’s Magistrate Janelle Villanueva for enrolling at-risk minors in the educational institution. “These students are placed in first and second form at night, and during the day they participate in an apprentice program,” said Kelly. They hope that this initiative will decrease the number of minors on the streets, as well as deter criminal activities.
Delivering an inspirational speech was guest speaker the Dean of San Pedro Junior College, Gustavo Ellis. He spoke about the graduation theme, encouraging students to make the best out of those single steps. “Whatever they may be, always trust in yourself. Things may change in life, they may not go the way you want- however, never get discouraged. Be wise when you take important steps in your life. Learn from what you have done wrong so you don’t repeat them later on in life.” Ellis congratulated the graduating class and invited them to further their education at the San Pedro Junior College.
Luis Campos then delivered the Valedictory address. He thanked all his classmates, family and friends for always being there for him. He encouraged everyone to continue fighting for their dreams and to never look back, but to continue moving forward. Following his speech, the 2017 patrons, Mr. and Mrs Alfredo Gonzalez, distributed diplomas, followed by awards to outstanding students.
After the class’ rendition of ‘I believe I can,’ Ovidio Bradley gave the Vote of Thanks. In his emotional remarks, he thanked all his classmates, teachers, family and friends. The graduates then marched off to celebrate their hard-earned accomplishments..
The SPACE class of 2017:
Lolita Sedassie*, Miriam Rodriguez*, Hipolita Acosta*, Jona Wewe, Karen Santos, Isela Catzim, Yolanie Sutherland, Maria Vides, Erin Bradley*, Josie Castellanos*, Luis Campos*, Yasmin Garcia*, Carlos Bradley*, Alexis Nuñez*, Jeff Anariba, and Eric Bradley.
 held its fifth Commencement Exercises on Sunday, June 11th at the Angel Nuñez Auditorium.){kind=link}