Ja:göh All Graduates!
Repost from Seneca Arts and Learning Center
We proudly celebrated the first Bay Mills HOPE Graduation Ceremony hosted on Seneca Nation Territory, a milestone that will always hold a special place in our hearts. We had the honor of celebrating 21 graduates who never gave up. Their hard work, dedication, and perseverance led them to this moment, and we couldn’t be more proud.
At the Centers, we believe one huge strength is our people. Creating an environment where staff feel supported, encouraged, and empowered to pursue their education is something we’re incredibly proud of. When we invest in one another, we strengthen our program, our children, our families, and our community.
That’s what made our partnership with Bay Mills Community College and HOPE… “Honoring Our People through Education” so important. Together, we’re creating opportunities, removing barriers, and helping our people achieve their educational goals while continuing to serve our children and community. Another beautiful moments of the evening was watching each graduate be pinned by a loved one, a beautiful reminder that no one reaches their goals alone. Behind every graduate is a circle of support, encouragement, and love.
To our graduates, Nya:wëh for showing our children, families, and community what perseverance looks like. You are proof that it’s never too late to learn, to grow, and to rush your goals!
Ja:göh! Congratulations, graduates. We are so proud of you, and we can’t wait to see where your journey takes you next.
Not pictured:
Courtney Boardman, SALC Teacher Assistant, CDA (2026)
Emma Schindler, ECLC Teacher Assistant, CDA (2025)
Miranda Kiminski, ECLC Teacher Assistant, CDA (2025)
Marcella Torres, ECLC Lead Teacher, CDA (2026)
Lauren Lowe, SALC Teacher Assistant, CDA (2026)
A heartfelt Nya:wëh to the Seneca Nation President & Council for generously gifting each graduate with a gift card and beautiful wampum belt stole, and to Bay Mills Community College for believing in our people and making this opportunity possible.
: Abe John, SN Media
: Onöhsagwë:de’ Cultural Center
: Men’s Ceremonial
