Cambridge Community Learning Center 2016 graduate Anne Marie Caroline Denis meets Mayor E. Denise Simmons at her recent graduation ceremony.

From the Cambridge Community Learning Center, June 22, 2016: The 41st annual Graduation and Awards ceremony of the Cambridge Community Learning Center was held recently at the Cambridge Main Library. This year, 42 graduates from the English for Speakers of Other Languages, Adult Secondary Education and Bridge to College Transition programs received certificates of completion.

Mayor E. Denise Simmons gave opening remarks in which she congratulated the students for furthering their education despite their many outside commitments and challenges. She also encouraged the students to remember that, as they move forward in their lives, they are valued in the community.

Three students representing the graduating classes – Roya Shahriari, of the ESOL program; Muhammed Khalid of the ASE program; and Hasna Hassoun of the Bridge program – addressed classmates during the ceremony and reflected on their experience at the center with poignant and optimistic speeches. Fourteen students were also honored for attaining citizenship this year, and center Volunteer of the Year Kenneth Thompson was recognized for his contribution of time and dedication to helping other students.

The Friends of the Community Learning Center and the city’s Rotary Club presented 16 scholarships to students pursuing higher education at local colleges and universities.

The Cambridge Community Learning Center provides educational services to more than 900 adults annually. Free classes are offered year-round, in the morning, afternoon and evening. For information, please contact the Community Learning Center at (617) 349-6363.