From ABE to College: Scholarships Awarded to Deserving Adult Learners in Boston

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~ On August 15, 2024, the City of Boston and Mayor Michelle Wu proudly hosted the 2024 First Literacy Scholarship Ceremony at Boston City Hall. This special event celebrated 26 adult learners who were awarded First Literacy Scholarships for the upcoming school year. The ceremony was a testament to the transformative power of education and recognized the hard work and dedication of these individuals.

Since its establishment in 1990, the First Literacy Scholarship program has provided over 600 scholarships to adult learners across Massachusetts. These recipients come from diverse backgrounds and often face significant challenges, but they all share a common goal: to improve their lives through education. Many are the first in their families to pursue higher education, and most are heads of households juggling financial responsibilities while also caring for loved ones.

The scholarships are awarded based on educational achievements, community service, and perseverance in the face of adversity. To be eligible, students must be nominated by their Adult Basic Education program, accepted into a college or training program, and demonstrate financial need. Each year, these scholars are honored for their efforts and accomplishments at a special Scholarship Ceremony.

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At this year's ceremony, Trinh Nguyen, Chief of Worker Empowerment for the Office of Mayor Michelle Wu, welcomed the scholars and shared her own journey as a refugee immigrant who came to the United States with her family in the 1980s. She spoke about how her parents worked tirelessly at low-wage jobs to provide her with educational opportunities, highlighting the transformative power of education.

The Office of Workforce Development (OWD), a department within the Worker Empowerment Cabinet, plays a crucial role in supporting adult education programs in Boston - many of which were attended by this year's scholarship recipients. Through partnerships with organizations like Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education's Adult and Community Learning Services (ACLS), OWD provides resources that help adult learners prepare for further education, training, and meaningful employment. Last year alone, OWD and the state jointly invested in Adult Basic Education services for over 3,500 adult learners, helping them pursue career paths that lead to economic security.

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Both OWD and First Literacy share a deep commitment to the power of education. Together, these programs and investments promote lifelong learning and create pathways for adults to improve their skills, setting the stage for brighter futures. By connecting individuals with education, job training, employment opportunities, and essential skills needed in today's economy, these efforts are developing a competitive workforce.

As we celebrate these scholars and their achievements, we are reminded of the profound impact that education can have on an individual's life. The Boston Globe invites readers to learn more about First Literacy's Scholar program by visiting firstliteracy.org/scholars/. Additionally, those interested in finding an adult education program in Boston can visit boston.gov/adult-literacy. By supporting these programs and First Literacy's mission to uplift and empower adult learners across Boston, we can all play a role in promoting lifelong learning and creating brighter futures for individuals within our community.

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