Carlene Norville is an inspiration. She came to us two years ago eager to get an education and earn her GED. In May of 1999, against tremendous odds, Carlene achieved that goal.

Carlene, who is from Barbados, is typical of our students in that she demonstrated great courage in coming back to school. It is never easy to return to school after being away from it for years, and most people simply do not bother. But Carlene had a goal, and she made sure to achieve it.

Night after night she came to class exhausted after working long hours all day. And night after night she made the most of her time in the classroom. Like most students who succeed with us, she had excellent attendance, loved to read, and took full responsibility for her own education.

In May, after passing the GED exam, Carlene was selected as the student speaker at our annual Recognition Ceremony. Wearing a blue gown and a beautiful smile, she spoke to our crowded auditorium about the pride she felt, and the relationships she developed with other students. She also spoke honestly about how her bad health almost forced her to give up on her education. Her message was clear: never give up, keep learning, and always continue to dream about a better future.

Our heart-felt congratulations to Carlene Norville, who is planning now to go on to college. We will miss her inspiring presence in the classroom, but we know soon we will be hearing about her next great successes!