Shelby’s graduation on April 8 brought her parents and grandparents all the way from South Carolina, as well as a family friend who lives in Scotland.
“When we have students come to us right out of high school and stay for a full training program, we see so much growth in them. That’s certainly true of you, Shelby,” Julie told her as she prepared to present the Bell of Freedom. “For your guests, this bell represents a great deal of hard work – hard work that is rewarded with new and greater independence as a blind person. And you have worked so hard and grown so much in order to earn this bell!”
It’s almost impossible to think about Shelby without thinking of music, too. Her love of music led to the creation of a small, but impressive student choir. Shelby was the director, and they performed during the holidays for our Senior Christmas Party and at the NFB of Denver chapter party. In fact, they gave a lovely harmonized rendition of the “Star Spangled Banner” after the bell ceremony.
Shelby also thrived in challenge recreation, earning the nickname “Chipmunk” for her agility on the most difficult rock-climbing walls in Clear Creek and Eldorado Canyons, as well as other activities.
Shelby prepared a hearty chili with garlic bread for the entire Center and her guests.
“It’s about gaining confidence in yourself as a blind person,” Julie explained. “Bet you never thought you’d accomplish something like this — cooking for 60 people.”
And with that, the Choir Director took her final bow as a CCB student. Shelby will be attending college as a freshman in the fall in South Carolina!
