It was a day of celebration as 110 students graduated from Pinellas County Job Corps today. In an inspiring speech, keynote speaker St. Petersburg City Council Member John Muhammad called the Job Corps Program “a beacon of what you can achieve.” Muhammad also told the graduates “to celebrate every small win because little victories pave the way for monumental victories.” He shared his own story about how he turned his life around from dropping out of high school to getting his degree, other certifications and becoming a strong voice for St. Petersburg, advocating for education, youth and community empowerment.

On behalf of the Mayor of St. Petersburg, Council Member Muhammad presented the graduates with a formal proclamation, declaring this day as “Job Corps Day” throughout the City of St. Petersburg.

On behalf of the Center Director, Lana Kite, Outreach Admissions and Career Transition Services Director MaryJo Potts told the graduates to dream big. “Dream bigger. Maybe you want to own your own business someday. Whatever the dream is, write it down,” added Potts. “This will get you closer to your goal. The celebration was capped off with cake and beverages.