SIC Celebrates Its First GED Graduation

Southeastern Illinois College (SIC) hosted its first GED graduation ceremony last week since the inception of the Adult Education program in 2021. The event marked a significant milestone for the program, celebrating the achievements of graduates who have worked tirelessly to obtain their Illinois high school equivalency diplomas.

The ceremony saw around 50 attendees, including family and friends of the graduates, who gathered to honor the hard work and dedication of the students. Dr. Karen Weiss, President of Southeastern Illinois College, opened the event with a warm welcome to the graduates and guests, commending the students for their perseverance and highlighting the long-term benefits of obtaining an Illinois high school diploma.

Assistant Director of Adult Education, Audrey Talbott, delivered an inspiring address, emphasizing the determination and resilience required to achieve a High School Equivalency diploma. She encouraged the graduates to view this achievement as a stepping stone toward further growth.

“Your journey doesn’t end here,” Talbott remarked. “Earning your GED is an incredible accomplishment, but it’s just the beginning. Consider it a solid foundation upon which to build a bright future. Whether you choose to pursue further education, enter the workforce, or explore other paths, this diploma is a powerful tool that will open doors. Remember, learning is a lifelong process. Embrace opportunities for growth, whether it’s through vocational training, college courses, or online learning platforms. Your potential is limitless. I encourage you to continue to learn, to grow, and to strive for excellence and never give up on your dreams.”

The Adult Education program at SIC serves students aged 17 and older who have not yet completed their high school diploma or equivalent. The program prepares students to pass the Illinois High School diploma exam through individualized instruction in Reading and Language Arts (RLA), Math, Science, and Social Studies. In addition to these preparatory courses, the program also offers industry-recognized credentials for students with a ninth-grade reading level or lower, including Entrepreneurship, Early Childhood Education, and Truck Driving Permit programs.

In the past year, 27 students have fully completed the GED exam through SIC’s Adult Education program, with other students passing a total of 138 individual exams. These achievements reflect the program’s commitment to helping students overcome various challenges, such as condensing four years of high school instruction into a shorter period and setting and achieving personal goals.

“Many of our students come to our classes to set a good example for their children or loved ones,” said Talbott. “Others are seeking more knowledge, improved self-esteem, or the opportunity to attend college. The long-term outcomes for these students are profound, with higher income being just one of the many benefits.”

For more information about the Adult Education program at Southeastern Illinois College, please visit www.sic.edu/ged.