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Northeast Adult Education to celebrate over 225 graduates in May 19 completion ceremony

by Michael H. Miller

BOONEVILLE, Miss. (05/09/2025) — Northeast Mississippi Community College's award-winning Adult Education department will hold its annual High School Equivalency (HSE) Completion Ceremony on Monday, May 19 at 6 p.m. in the Bonner Arnold Coliseum on the college's Booneville campus.

Over 225 graduates have the opportunity to walk across the stage to receive their diploma -- an achievement many feared would never come, yet through hard work, persistence, and the unwavering support of Northeast's Adult Education staff, that dream is now a reality.

With over 225 graduates, Northeast's Adult Education HSE Completion Ceremony becomes not just the largest high school graduation in the college's five-county service district - Alcorn, Prentiss, Tippah, Tishomingo and Union counties, but it becomes one of the largest high school graduations in the northeast Mississippi area and the Magnolia State.

For many of the graduates, life often threw curveballs -- unexpected responsibilities, hardships, or opportunities that cause individuals to put their education on hold.

Some of this year's graduates have been out of school for decades.

Others are single parents who balanced coursework with parenting.

Many have worked years in manufacturing or other trades, returning to school not only to better themselves but to set an example for their children and grandchildren.

For all of them, the journey back to the classroom was anything but easy -- but the tassel, as they say, is worth the hassle.

Northeast's award-winning Adult Education program exists for precisely these kinds of moments.

With programs like Smart Start, HSE and GED preparation, workforce training, and college readiness courses, Northeast provides more than a diploma -- it offers a fresh start.

"Whether you've been out of school for five months or 35 years, we are here to help you rewrite your story," said NEMCC Adult Education Director Laurie Kesler. "This is not just about getting a diploma. It's about gaining the confidence, skills, and direction to take the next step -- whether that's college, career advancement, or personal growth."

As technology continues to transform the workplace, adult education has never been more vital.

Northeast's programs are designed to help students catch up, keep up, and even get ahead -- filling in the gaps that may have previously kept them from raises, promotions, or entirely new career paths.

This year's class includes graduates who once thought high school completion was out of reach.

Now, they are proof that it is never too late to return, rebuild, and rise.

Many will pursue degrees at Northeast this fall.

Others are entering technical programs or heading straight into or back into the workforce, equipped with newfound skills and confidence.

As with all commencement ceremonies at Northeast, the Adult Education Completion Ceremony will be live streamed at NEMCCTV.com, allowing family, friends, and supporters everywhere to watch their graduate take their steps across the stage.

For more information on Northeast's Adult Education programs, visit nemcc.edu, contact the Adult Education office directly at (662) 720-7184 or email adulted@nemcc.edu

--NEMCC--

Information about Northeast Mississippi Community College

Northeast Mississippi Community College is a leading educational institution that provides comprehensive academic, technical, and workforce training programs to empower students and promote lifelong learning. With a commitment to excellence, Northeast Mississippi Community College fosters a supportive environment that prepares individuals for success in their chosen fields.

For more information about Northeast Mississippi Community College, visit http://www.nemcc.edu.

Media Attachments

Northeast Mississippi Community College’s award-winning Adult Education department will hold its annual High School Equivalency (HSE) Completion Ceremony on Monday, May 19 at 6 p.m. in the Bonner Arnold Coliseum on the college’s Booneville campus. Over 225 graduates have the opportunity to walk across the stage to receive their diploma -- an achievement many feared would never come, yet through hard work, persistence, and the unwavering support of Northeast’s Adult Education staff, that dream is now a reality. As with all commencement ceremonies at Northeast, the Adult Education Completion Ceremony will be live streamed at NEMCCTV.com, allowing family, friends, and supporters everywhere to watch their graduate take their steps across the stage.

LK
Laurie
Kesler
  • Saltillo, MS
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