Winnetka, IL—Cheers and tears of joy were prominent at The Hadley School for the Blind's 2008 High School Program Graduation, held at the Winnetka Woman's Club on June 11. Seven of the 11 graduates in the class of 2008 were present to receive their diplomas.
"Hadley is proud of each and every one of our graduates, who have overcome difficult circumstances and worked diligently to achieve this goal," said Hadley President Charles Young.
Graduates were escorted to the stage by the Young Visionaries, a group of individuals in their 20s and 30s who support Hadley's mission and educate their friends and community members about the school. After graduates received their diplomas from Hadley Chairman of the Board Stace Hilbrant, Hadley student and Young Visionary member Leslie Hamric sang "Climb Every Mountain," accompanied by Carolyn Sanderson on piano.
In her keynote speech, former Hadley student Christie Gilson, who just earned a doctorate in special education from the University of Illinois, acknowledged the many challenges the graduates have faced, and encouraged them to continue academic endeavors and follow their dreams. She also encouraged them to find a way to give back to their community. Gilson, who is blind, volunteers her time teaching English to Hadley students in China via internet chat, hoping to help these visually impaired and blind students better their employment prospects.
For many Hadley students, graduation is a hard-fought victory. Many did not have accessible course material at their local high schools and could not earn degrees before enrolling in Hadley"s accredited program. Each year, more than 500 students supplement their high school curriculum with Hadley courses.
Copyright © 2008 The Hadley School for the Blind. All rights reserved.