OIC graduates begin next chapter
Jun. 24—NEW LONDON — Valerie Williams said she initially was fearful to go back to school, but with the encouragement of Opportunities Industrialization Center of New London County Inc., she is flourishing.
"OIC helped me see and practice my confidence out loud and has truly made a path for my career," she said Saturday upon receiving the chairperson's award at OIC of New London County's graduation ceremony. "My confidence today has opened doors, transformed my work habits and enhanced my work ethic."
Williams, a graduate of OIC's early childhood education program, said she is working at Child Works Preschool in New London and is moving into a head teacher position. She foresees herself helping other teachers that start out like her: who may be questioning but are passionate and ready to grow.
The graduates, wearing blue caps and gowns, were applauded and cheered as they received awards for their determination and leadership skills during the graduation ceremony at the Garde Arts Center.
Nekeisha Grant, president and CEO of OIC of New London County, a nonprofit that offers job training programs and other services, said this is the most introspective class OIC has ever had and she is so proud of the graduates.
"Today we celebrate the success of our training graduates and their transformation," Grant said.
Ruben Ramos was among the graduates recognized with awards. Grant presented Ramos with the president's award and told him that he worked "really, really hard to transform and do what you need to do to succeed in life."
"If you want something, you can go for it," Ramos said. "OIC is the place to build your foundation."
Ramos, who also received a leadership award, said his dream is to be a counselor to help people who think opportunity or recovery are not possible, because they are.
OIC Board Chairperson Priscilla Melecio told the Class of 2023, "Every chapter in our lives has a beginning and an end, and yours began when you walked through the doors of OIC."
"OIC has been an unforgettable journey that has prepared you for your future and whatever it may hold," she added.
Grant said OIC added this year the early childhood education program, sponsored by the state Office of Early Childhood, in which individuals earn a childhood development associate's certificate. OIC was selected as the only nonprofit in the state to be part of the pilot.
Next year, OIC will add programs for construction and community health workers.
Beth Bye, commissioner of the state Office of Early Childhood and the keynote speaker at the graduation, told the early childhood education graduates, in a recorded message, that the state and the region needs them.
"We have a tremendous workforce shortage, and we need childcare for the whole workforce to work, so you are critical in this system in Connecticut."
Tammy Faircloth, who is graduating from the early childhood education program and currently works as a floater and substitute at Riverfront Children's Center in Groton, said she loves working with children. Her goal is to work in a public school as an assistant teacher.
Faircloth said it was difficult to go to school at the same time she was preparing for a wedding ― she got married in February ― but her teacher Roberta Travers helped her keep going to pursue her goal.
She said before the graduation that she felt nervous but very happy and grateful.
Sharon Griggs, a family childcare provider in Uncasville, was graduating from the early childhood education program Saturday. She said she did the program because she wanted to learn more.
"Education is important for the kids," she said.
