The Cleveland Job Corps held graduation on August 18, 2017, joining 126 Job Corps Centers nationwide in celebrating the “Seventh Annual National Job Corps Commencement Day.” Job Corps Centers nationwide celebrated thousands of graduates, as they became employable and financially independent members of society.

Nearly 100 Cleveland Job Corps Center students received a High School Diploma and/or Certifications of Completion from either the Construction or Allied Health training programs. The days leading up to the graduation were filled with excitement, as students returned to the Center from several miles away to walk across the stage and receive their diplomas.

Commencement Speaker, Councilman Michael Polensek of Cleveland’s 8th Ward addressed the Fall 2017 Graduating Class of Cleveland Job Corps with words of encouragement and optimism. “Hopefully, there are future business owners, leaders in your field of endeavor, or teachers in this graduating class; who will assist in groundbreaking actions or creations because of the skills learned right here at the Cleveland Job Corps,” expressed Polensek. “I hope someday soon, I have the opportunity to meet you again and to hear about your success and your career path.”

“Commencement marks the end of one chapter and the beginning of a new one for students as family, friends and faculty celebrate their accomplishments and hopes for a bright future,” said Center Director, Will Houston. Because of Cleveland Job Corps Center’s comprehensive academic and career technical training programs, more than 90% of the programs’ graduates will pursue a career, enlist in the military, or enroll in higher education. “Go confidently in the direction of your dreams and live the life you imagined,” Henry David Thoreau. Congratulations graduates, we are so proud of you!