Hundreds of family, friends and community members gathered on June 5 to celebrate the 141 adults who earned a high school diploma or GED from Lewiston Adult Education.

The individuals, ranging in age from 17 to 82, juggled jobs, family and school as they put in the hundreds of hours of work required to complete high school credit or prepare for the GED exams.

Eva Giles, program director, spoke of the many of the graduates who sought out Lewiston Adult Education to complete their high school credential to enhance their qualifications for a job, go on to college or to serve as a role model for their children.

Two student speakers, Elaine Hamel and Melisa Hitaj, both spoke about the need to persevere when life’s difficulties get in the way of reaching your goals.

This message was echoed by keynote speaker, Deputy City Administrator Phil Nadeau, who noted that life’s experience may not always be fun, but will help to form the person you were meant to be.

Also recognized at the graduation ceremony were those who completed workforce training certification programs, including CNA, Clerical Certificate, Culinary Arts Certificate, Medical Office Certificate, Welding Certificate, and College Transitions.

An invitation was extended from College Transition instructor Dawn Walker-Elders to new graduates looking to pursue higher education opportunities.

Walter Ridlon from Central Maine Community College delivered the Courage to Grow award and scholarship to Lynnea Hawkins, College Transition Program certificate recipient preparing to enroll at CMCC in the fall.