21 Inspiring CLC Graduates Receive Scholarships to Pursue College Education
Twenty-one current and former graduates of the Community Learning Center were honored and awarded scholarships for college study at the CLC’s joyous graduation ceremony on Thursday, June 22. They share a pool of $31,000 raised by the Friends of the CLC. These scholarships help thirteen students who are entering college for the first time, and eight who are continuing their education with scholarships in their second year or beyond. It was a night of celebration for them all!
Individual awards range from $1000 to $2000, based on need. Major sponsors of the scholarships include the Elena Baan Foundation, East Cambridge Savings Bank, the Thelma H. and Paul F. Ebbitt Foundation, and the Herb and Maxine Jacobs Foundation. We appreciate you, as well as all of our donors who help create these life-changing opportunities!
To end with a bit of inspiration, read these words from Viktorija Barone, one of the scholarship recipients. With the help of the CLC and the Friends, she is putting in the effort to achieve her goal of a college education. We, the Friends, applaud her drive and wish her all the success as she moves forward.
“Three years ago I would have never imagined where I would be now. I think back to many nights I wished to start school and achieve a degree. Now, years later I find myself thinking about how many amazing things I have learned. The CLC and Bunker Hill Community College has taught me so much about strength and resilience. The things I learned in my first ever class with Mina Reddy had come true. I learned about Deo, a one man's journey as an immigrant who made it to America and finished his education. I, as an immigrant, felt inspired and ready for my day to come as well…”
“…I am very happy that my journey started with the CLC. The access to education has been something I had never dreamed of. I am grateful for years of support and the many times I have needed help and I was able to ask. It has always been hard for me to ask for help and one feeling that I can never take away after being a part of the Bridge to College Program is support. College was a dream so far away and I can say that it feels so amazing to be able to be here today in my shoes. When you dream big, dreams come true. I wish to inspire all immigrant adult learners to keep pushing forward and work hard. I feel proud of the work I have done, and am forever grateful for the journey that keeps on unraveling.”