Julie Smith, of Sidney, was inducted into the National Adult Honor Society.

Upper Valley Career Center Superintendent Dr. Nancy Luce congratulates graduate Terrance Beasley of Piqua.

GED graduates, left to right, Travis Trimble, Crystal Stacy, Julie Smith, Taylor Sampson, Terry Job, Madeline Hunker and Terrance Beasley are ready to receive their diplomas.

Upper Valley Career Center Superintendent Dr. Nancy Luce congratulates graduate Travis Trimble of Urbana.

PIQUA — Eight students from the Upper Valley Career Center Adult Basic and Literacy Education program turned the dream of graduating into a reality on June 6. The annual event was attended by Upper Valley Career Center and ABLE staff members, family, friends, and special guest speaker Lincoln Community Center Director Shane Carter, Troy.

Peg Morelli, ABLE director, welcomed those assembled and commended the graduates for their strong self discipline and perseverance in achieving this milestone accomplishment. Special tribute was paid to Terry Job, of Piqua, Julie Smith, of Sidney, and Logan Rench, of Troy, who by demonstrating superior work ethic, attendance, and academic success earned the honor of induction into the National Adult Honor Society.

Carter congratulated the graduates on their achievement and offered words of inspiration.

“Take the time to reflect on this huge accomplishment. The tenacious commitment that you have put forth is worth celebrating,” Carter said. He went on to challenge the graduates to turn this achievement into the start of a pathway to continued learning. “I encourage you to further your education and learn new skills. This is only the beginning of a lifetime of learning.”

Dr. Nancy Luce, Upper Valley Career Center superintendent, and Dr. Barbara Wagner, Upper Valley Career Center Adult Division director, awarded the diplomas.

The 2015 ABLE graduates are: Eaton, Madeline Hunker; Greenville, Rayana Randall; Piqua, Terrance Beasley, Terry Job and Taylor Sampson; Sidney, Julie Smith; Troy, Crystal Stacy; and Urbana, Travis Trimble.

Upper Valley Career Center operates ABLE classes in sites across Miami, Shelby and Darke counties. Participants may prepare for their General Equivalency Diploma (GED), refresh skills needed for employment/advancement, or prepare for post secondary transitions. Individuals lacking a high school diploma or looking to refresh academic skills are encouraged to contact the Upper Valley Career Center ABLE program at 937.778.1078 or email Morelli at [email protected] to enroll in GED preparation classes. Classes are offered in Piqua, Troy, Sidney and Greenville mornings and evenings.