 Graduations are culminations of hard work, dedication and commitment. Literally, a graduation ceremony is the final step of one journey and the first step into a new incredible adventure. An adventure in which the graduate is the writer and the world is the blank page.
 No 2006 graduates are more aware of that fact than the graduating class of Wheeler Creek Community Development Corporation/OAI, Inc.’s Minority Workers Training Program. These graduates understand the amazing feeling of accomplishment associated with successfully completing a educational program. Probably, because most of these graduates did not go the traditional academic route. Nonetheless, all of them were smiling from ear to ear during their recent graduation ceremony at Wheeler Creek Community Center. Applauded by family, friends, and instructors alike, the graduates listened as staff touted their praises for a job well done.
“  We are very excited. “This is our first session with OAI, Inc., which is based in Chicago. We are so happy they selected us for their Washington (D.C.) component,” said WCCDC Executive Director Dr. Bessie E. Swann. She was doubly excited about the graduates. “Our students have overcome some bumps, learned a lot, and formed tight bonds. I am so proud of all of you,” she told the graduates. Turning to the audience, Dr. Swann, recalled “when we first got this program off the ground. The people you see here today didn’t just get into the program. They had to work to get into the program. All we could do is give them the opportunity. They had to put in the hard work.”
 Making the choice to put in the hard work was the difference between those students who graduated and those who watched from the audience. Mr. Greg Smith, of OAI, Inc., told the graduates that with their newly earned certifications “the sky is the limit. Do not let this be the stopping point for you.” Instead, he told the class, use what they have learned to go to the next level. “It’s never too late to be what you might have always been,” said Mr. Smith.
All of the graduates were applauded by the staff for their accomplishments. However, three students excelled in the program: Mr. Aaron Cherry, Mr. David Wheeler and Mr. Robert Quick.
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