The Opportunities Industrialization Center held commencement exercises Wendesday for more than 60 GED students.

This year’s commencement has the distinction of having another record-setting number of students graduate from the OIC’s GED program.

“Everything we do at OIC is about self-sufficiency, creating jobs and enhancing our region’s quality of life, one person and one family at a time,” said Reuben Blackwell, president and CEO of the OIC. “OIC graduations highlight the miracles that our staff, partners and students make together every day.”

Dan Gerlach, president of the Golden LEAF foundation, delivered the commencement address. Several students were recognized during the ceremony for receiving Career Readiness Certificates as well as those who completed the Employability Skills/Career Awareness training via an online course offering.

“The CRC provides graduates with a running start with employers who see that their potential candidates have great work ethics and that they understand how to bring value to their companies,” said Charles Washington, director of Training and Education.

Washington said OIC officials take great pride in helping student complete the GED program.

“As many of our graduates continue their progress through area community colleges, four year institutions and permanent employment, our team of educators, case managers, and business development specialists will continue to work closely with our students to ensure successful transitions and on-going support,” he said.

Click here to see more photos from the event.