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YEAR UP PROVIDENCE, CLASS OF august
2007
On August 1st, 2007, Year Up Providence, graduated its fourth
class at the Westin Providence today. The graduation ceremony
featured a keynote address by Brian Burke, Director of Government
Affairs for Microsoft, and opening remarks by Rhode Island
House Finance Chairman Steven Costantino. The platinum sponsors
of the event were Bank of America, Microsoft and Citizens
Bank.
"Microsoft is a company founded on the opportunities
that technology makes possible," Burke said. "The
Year Up program is founded on-and proof of-the very same
premise, and Microsoft is proud to be a partner."
" In today's climate, as state investments are subject
to ever-increasing scrutiny, the General Assembly looks to
fund programs with a track record of success," said
Chairman Costantino. "Year Up is just such a program.
A proven contributor to our community and economy, Year Up
plays a unique and important role in Rhode Island's post-secondary
education infrastructure."
Twenty-two students between ages 18 and 24 graduated from
the one-year program this year; three of the graduates spoke
at the ceremony. Graduate Daniel Yem said, "Year Up
is a place where lives are changed and doors are open. Life
as you know it will never be the same. The knowledge you
gain will not go to waste."
"Success is not about having the best job title," said
graduate Barry Fenn. "Success is having the drive and
ambition to continue moving forward in life and in your career-not
only to better yourself but to better everyone around you."
Margaret Holland McDuff, Chief Executive Officer at Family
Service of Rhode Island received Year Up's Urban Empowerment
Award for its on-the-ground support of families in the Ocean
State and its extensive network of partnerships with other
non-profit organizations, health care facilities, and businesses.
Year Up is honored to announce the Class of July 2007 awards
and scholarships:
The Award for Excellence:
Anel Perez
The Award for Leadership:
Ivan Marte
SIM Leadership Award: Anel
Perez
Each graduate has been offered a $1000 scholarship towards their collegiate
education.
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