Praise the Lord. God is good at all times and glory to his name. My name is Carmen Marcelin and I am a working mother of
three teenagers one of which is in college. I haven been trying for so long to see myself in a day like today, lining up and walking in a
graduation gown. These hard working people have sacrificed their time to work towards the goal of a high school diploma.
For me personally this is not the end. It’s one step closer toward my career. As a CNA of Courtland Gardens Healthcare Center already working
in healthcare, my next step will be moving forward to a higher level. For those of you who are here cheering for us, some of you might be ashamed of
your level. Believe me, never say you can’t do something without trying to do it. There is plenty of help available.
We have Bette who cannot be compared to and always willing to call us when we get discouraged and Gail the patient teacher who never gets mad
when we don’t return our work on time. I thank the 1199 who gives us the opportunity to accomplish this special event and to the people of the
National External Diploma Program. May God bless you all.
Carmen Marcelin
CNA Courtland Gardens
Stamford, CT
