Second Class of CSM JOBS Students Graduate
JOBS graduates Michael Abresch, Cecil B. Adams, Demarco D. Campbell, Daniel “Ray” Johnson Jr., Ondo Mike, Jesse Morin, Raymond Morris and Shane Sorrells.
With more than 75 family members and friends cheering them on, the second cohort from the College of Southern Maryland’s Juvenile Offenders Building Skills (JOBS) program crossed the stage to celebrate their successful completion Nov. 5.
Accepting certificates of completion for plumbing and HVAC (heating, ventilation and air conditioning), the nine graduates were Michael C. Abresch of Charlotte Hall, Cecil Adams of Indian Head, Demarco Campbell of Bryans Road, Daniel “Ray” Johnson Jr. of Nanjemoy, Scott B. Johnson Jr. of Waldorf, Ondo E. Mike of Lusby, Jesse P. Morin of Hughesville, Raymond S. Morris of Bryans Road and Shane R. Sorrells of Port Tobacco.
“This is a special event,” CSM President Dr. Brad Gottfried told those assembled. “It’s about success. We all make mistakes and the road to success is learning from them and moving forward. That’s what you have done. Not only are you provided skills, many of you have earned GEDs, and many have come back to the college to take classes. Others are getting into apprenticeship programs. The future is very bright for these individuals.”
Funding for the program, which is a collaboration among the college and 40 strategic partners from Calvert, Charles and St. Mary’s counties, is provided through a $1.5 million grant from the U.S. Department of Labor.
The program serves young adult ex-offenders with job training, service-learning and placement services while building self-esteem, reinforcing positive workplace behaviors and building a strong work ethic. Community service is built into the program, with the students spending two Fridays a month assisting local nonprofits with HVAC, plumbing and other needs.
In addition to the certificates, several students were recognized for receiving Maryland high school diplomas, including Mr. Abresch, Daniel Johnson and Mr. Sorrells.
For information on the program, visit the CSM website.
