Tag: graduation

A big heart and steadfast determination to finish his training at the Center despite significant health challenges are the things that fellow students and staff remarked on again and again Friday morning when Christopher was awarded his Bell of Freedom.

Julie Deden noted the disruption in the middle of his program as she presented his bell, and how he insisted on continuing. But the most important thing, said Julie, is that Christopher has “such a big heart”, and that he’s always ready to help others, volunteering to help out with youth programs and more.”

“Christopher’s determination was fueled perhaps by the successes of students after he arrived.… Read the rest “Christopher: Keep your heart open”

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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.

Shelby came to the Center as a brand-new high school grad last summer, and so it was the second time her parents and grandparents had been to the Center – they also came for the summer youth graduation at the end of July.

“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.… Read the rest “Shelby: The Choir Director Gets Her Bell”

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On April 6 it was Vika’s turn to ring her Bell of Freedom. She cooked a meal of barbecued chicken, potato wedges that used 30 pounds of spuds, and peach cobbler.

When Julie asked if if she’d ever done any cooking before coming to the Center, she said no.

“My parents were afraid I would hurt myself, and they didn’t know how to teach me. That’s why I wanted to come here and be around other blind people who know how to do things and can teach other blind people.”

“And I’ve met so many wonderful people and had such wonderful teachers.”… Read the rest “Vika: If I can cook for 64, I can cook for my family someday”

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Peter culminated his amazing journey on April 1 with his grad meal and the Bell of Freedom he worked so hard to earn.

“It was suggested that I come here 20 years ago,” Peter toldus. “I didn’t because I didn’t believe I was blind.”

Indeed, Peter came from Brooklyn as one of our more mature students, but clearly young enough (and wise enough) to work hard and learn. In the mix he brought his mentorship to his fellow students and re-discovered his passion for making art in Ann Cunningham’s class

“I’m so happy and proud … This has been an amazing journey for me,” he told everyone.… Read the rest “Peter: This is your journey to make”

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Tabea’s time in the spotlight came on March 12 when her travel instructor David Nietfeld presented her with her Bell of Freedom.

“When Tabea first got here her sister Sarah was finishing up,” David said. “For a while it was kind of the Meyer Show. Some might have been tempted to wonder how Tabea would do once her sister left, but we know for sure now the kind of person she is.”

“She is a go-getter, she pushes herself. She is definitely someone who gets things done.  I am proud of her, and many others are too.”

David teased that “she’s a bit of an over-achiever”, going to six new locations on her Monster Route, not just the required four.… Read the rest “Tabea: I didn’t know I would grow in the ways that I have”

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