Friends and supporters of Central Lincoln County Adult Education students came together at Skidompha Public Library on Thursday, June 23 to recognize and honor this year’s Adult Education graduates.

The attending graduates for 2014-15 were Patricia Mackenzie of Damariscotta, Andrew McKenzie of Damariscotta, and Appolonia Michaud of Pemaquid. Other graduates who did not attend the ceremony are William Brewer of Newcastle, and Amy Rogers of Wiscasset. Vicki Fleury of Damariscotta has been a long time student of Adult Education and this year received an Adult Education High School Diploma.

Adult Education Director Ellen Dickens welcomed guests and introduced each graduate. Dickens compared this year’s graduates with last years, most of which were still teenagers. She said, “The students here tonight have been a long time getting to this point. Life got in the way of them finishing their education. However, through determination, hard work, and not giving up on their dreams, at last they can celebrate reaching their goal. We celebrate with them.” She urged the graduates to keep moving forward in their education by taking advantage of the Lincoln County College Connection (TLC³) College Transitions program. This year three students successfully completed the College Transitions program and plan to attend college in the fall: Vicky Belcher of Wiscasset, Sabryna Payne of Damariscotta, and Liudmyla Nichols of Boothbay Harbor.

Graduate Appolonia Michaud then gave a humorous and nontraditional commencement speech which included poking fun at herself, quoting Dr. Suess, and pointing out the irony that “a graduation ceremony is where…they have us dress up in identical caps and gowns and then tell us individuality is the key to success.” A mother of three, Michaud finished her speech with this quote, “Doubt kills dreams more than failure ever will.” She sat down and her youngest child ran to her, hugged her and said, “Mama, I’m so proud of you.”

AOS 93 School Superintendent Steven Bailey then offered his congratulations to the graduates, initiated a round of applause, and presented diplomas. Immediately following the ceremony, students and guests stayed for a reception hosted by the Central Lincoln County Adult Education Advisory Board.