On Thursday, August 9, staff, clients, and community members gathered at the Vermont Commons School for the annual Honoring Ceremony. This event serves as a celebration of many student and client achievements across several of Lund’s programs and services—including the graduation of NHEP students who have earned their high school diplomas. The Honoring Ceremony is a powerful and emotional afternoon for staff and clients alike, as it shines a light on the dedication, resilience, and strength of our clients to achieve incredible goals.
At New Horizons 2018 Honoring Ceremony we were able to witness the magic that happens at Lund culminate for six tenacious graduates.
“We have witnessed these young women climb over, under and around obstacles that would take most of us down on any given day,” says Parent Child Center Coordinator Tammy Santamore. “But not our students. They face their challenges head on each and every day they balance; pregnancy and motherhood, academic work, parenting, treatment, employment, and complex relationships. Their resiliency astonishes me, as does our teachers’ commitment to their students.”
This year’s event marked the success of…
- 6 students who graduated with their high school diploma
- 22 students who made academic achievement in pursuance of their high school diploma
- 9 clients who pursued post-secondary education or vocational training programs
- 11 clients who served as Prevention & Outreach program panelists
- 8 clients who participated in workforce development placements
This year, attendees also heard from an alumna of the residential program, who shared her story of battling addiction, embracing help, and finding hope and purpose through recovery. Her insightful, courageous message was impactful and inspiring.
Representatives from Senator Bernie Sanders and Congressman Peter Welch’s offices also offered their congratulations to the students and spoke of the truly impressive nature of their achievements.
The Honoring Ceremony also sees the awarding of the Kit Stone Humanitarian Award. This award is presented to staff-nominated clients who have recognized the value in using what they have been given to blossom in life. The recipients demonstrate their ability to take the opportunities presented to them and make them work for themselves and their families; are committed to education, employment, vocational training and community outreach; and demonstrate compassion, kindness, and goodwill for others. This year’s recipients and nominees consisted of an amazing group of hardworking, insightful, and dedicated young adults who care committed to a bright future for themselves, their families, and their communities.
“I hope that everyone who attended the event knows that they contributed to the magic of Lund, and carries that with them everyday. Life can be hard and messy but days like this one remind that it is also beautiful and amazing,” says Tammy.
Thank you to our fabulous staff, program participants, board members, and guests who helped to make the 2018 Honoring Ceremony possible. We are so appreciative for all that you do to support NHEP as well as the important work that happens across Lund’s programs and services every day. Congratulations to our graduates and our awardees!
