GREENFIELD — Eighteen graduates crossed the stage at Greenfield Community College on Thursday, embarking into the world after receiving their high-school equivalency diplomas.

The graduates earned their HiSET (High School Equivalency Test) by taking classes through The Literacy Project. Many at the ceremony spoke to how hard the students worked to reach this goal.

“I love the GED (General Educational Development) graduation because I know exactly how hard you all worked,” said GCC President Michelle Schutt.

Graduate Arreyenne Korzeb explained she left high school during the COVID-19 pandemic to work full-time. After working for three years, she decided to go back to school to finish what she started. The Literacy Project helped her get to that final step of earning the HiSET.

Having lied about having a high school diploma for so long, graduate Amos Johnson forgot he never had one. But when he applied for a GCC program, he found he was missing a crucial document.

Through six weeks of studying at The Literacy Project, Johnson was able to pass the HiSET, and then gave back to the program by helping tutor others. He struggled with addiction for many years, and now that he has his diploma, he plans to get the appropriate certification to become a recovery coach for others.

As for graduate Kathleen Brenton, she felt pressured to drop out of high school to take care of her family members who were struggling with addiction. Years later after enduring homelessness and an abusive relationship, having her “miracle baby” empowered her to change her life and finish her education.

“I was born without power. I was born without purpose or peace,” Brenton said. “Going through this program was the first step in creating all of that.”

Graduate Fakhria Musaawy recounted how when she moved to Amherst from Afghanistan, she didn’t know any English and had trouble meeting people due to the language barrier. The Literacy Project not only taught her math and language, but also gave her community. She gave birth to her son while taking classes with the program, and her children were able to be part of the classes as well. She plans to attend GCC to continue her education.

“I always thought The Literacy Project had the power to change lives,” said the nonprofit’s Executive Director Judith Roberts. “I still think that, but you have the power. You have the power to transform your own lives.”

Graduates

Casey Aubrey, Kathleen Brenton, Willow Glenn, Tiffany Jalbert, Amos Johnson, Arryenne Korzeb, Katarina Lenois, Tania Linares, Jada-nikkole Murray, Fakhria Musaawy, Erica Otero, Todd Pavelkops, Robin Phillips, Ardis Picard, Thalia Rivera, Schadonya Rush, Lucas Steblea and Safiya Yaseen.

Bella Levavi can be reached at 413-930-4579 or blevavi@recorder.com.

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