The Adult Education program at West Georgia Technical College (WGTC) celebrated its ESL and GED graduates with a commencement ceremony held Wednesday, May 7, at WGTC’s Callaway Conference Center in LaGrange.
“This is a special occasion for our graduates and their loved ones,” Dean of Adult Education Rebecca Wheeler said. “Our students have overcome challenges, balanced responsibilities, and stayed committed to their goals. We are incredibly proud of all they’ve accomplished and excited for what lies ahead.”
Ron Haynes, Executive Director at Addison Smith Mechanical Contractor, Inc., delivered the keynote speech, sharing his own journey as a GED graduate and encouraging the graduates to keep learning, growing, and challenging themselves.
“There are doors waiting to be opened, jobs to be claimed, degrees to be earned, businesses to be built,” said Haynes. “The road ahead may not be easy—but neither was the one behind you. And you made it through that. You have everything inside you to create a future far greater than your past. Don’t let fear or comparison or doubt rob you of what you’ve earned. You’ve already proven that you can rise. Now go out and thrive.”
214 students earned a GED® or HiSET diploma or successfully completed the English as a Second Language (ESL) program for the 2024– 2025 school year. 75 of those students took part in Wednesday night’s ceremony in front of a packed house of family, friends, and supporters.
Many of these graduates will continue their educational journey as students at WGTC, but one student began that journey even before earning his GED.
While working toward his GED at WGTC, Shaw Orange simultaneously completed the Nurse Aide Accelerated Certificate program, showcasing his commitment to building a better future. His dedication paid off as he proudly walked in WGTC’s GED graduation ceremony on May 7, followed by the college graduation on May 8—an inspiring back-to-back celebration of hard work and perseverance. Reflecting on his journey and the challenges he overcame, Shaw shared words of wisdom for his fellow graduates during his graduation speech.
“To change anything in life all that is required is the courage to step out of your comfort zone as much as possible, the patience to continue loving yourself even when you encounter difficulties, and to never forget that you can achieve anything your heart desires as long as you’re willing to go the distance.”
WGTC President Dr. Julie Post praised Shaw’s dedication and determination, highlighting his achievement as an inspiration to others.
“Shaw Orange is a shining example of what’s possible when determination meets opportunity,” said Post. “His commitment to pursuing both his GED and a college certificate at the same time is truly inspiring, and we are incredibly proud to have him as part of the WGTC family.”
For more information about the Adult Education program, including information about free classes and registration dates, visit www.westgatech.edu/adult-education.
