It was the best of both worlds for the more than 80Mississippi Gulf Coast Community College General Education Degree (GED) graduates and their families. The May 29 ceremony at Malone Hall on the college’s Perkinston Campus featured the usual festive atmosphere and genuine emotion as graduates received their diplomas. But this event marked the first time GED graduates wore caps and gowns during the ceremony.

“We believe that the addition of the caps and gowns has certainly added to the formality of the occasion,” said Anna Faye Kelley-Winders, Gulf Coast Community Campus vice president. “For many people, it is the highlight for their relatives, because they may be the first in their family to receive a high school diploma.”

The event was half-ritual, half-rock concert. Even Rev. Mike Dobbs’ invocation received applause from the standing- room-only crowd.

“Tonight is about getting loud and being proud of these graduates,” said Dr. Mary Graham, Perkinston Campus vice president.

The graduates not only got their diplomas, but some also earned college scholarships. At Gulf Coast, students who earn a GED battery average score of 577 or higher are awarded a half-time scholarship for one semester covering a maximum of six semester hours, while those averaging a GED battery score of 450 to 576 are eligible to take one free class for one semester.

Commencement speaker Sean Hodges had no problem relating to this audience. In 1990, the college’s Geo-I-Tech Community Campus project director received his GED in much the same manner. “It’s a great door that you’ve opened in your life,” said Hodges. “Consider what makes a difference in your community, and look at what you can do tomorrow.”

For GED graduate Gwen Kaufman, tomorrow used to mean taking care of her five children. But now, the 54- year-old sees a different path.

“It got to where my five children were raised, and I became a grandmother,” Kaufman said. “My life changed, so I decided to do something that I never got to finish. As I got older, I really regretted dropping out of school. So I worked up enough nerve to come and get my GED. Not only did I get my GED, I also learned how to ride a motorcycle.”

Perhaps the most telling story of success is that of 26-yearold Sharon Pierce. For her, the road to graduation was filled with heartache, determination, and persistence.

 “I quit high school, got married, and had children,” said Pierce. Then in 2005 her father, Stone County sheriff's deputy Odell Fite, was killed in the line of duty. Pierce said that tragedy served as a motivator for her to get her GED.

“My dad always wanted me to graduate, go to college, and make something of my life,” she said. “This is a great opportunity for me. I wasn’t able to walk across the stage with my high school class, but this is the next best thing. My two kids are sitting in the audience, so this will set a good example for them. I feel proud of myself for the first time in a long time.

” The only thing missing, said Pierce, was her father. “My dad would be very proud,” she said. “I wish he could be here to see me, but I know he’s watching from Heaven.” 4

GET YOUR BUSINESS LISTED!