The ceremony also featured a keynote speech by Florence Punch, Peer Alumni and graduate of the 23rd cycle of Peers, a photo presentation by Alliance Director of Photography David Nager, a testimonial by Peer Graduate Levi Stevenson, and a presentation of certificates (led by Brenda Starks-Ross, Jean Pierre-Louis, Joyce Myricks, and Stephen Williams).
Closing the event were remarks from Alliance Board Member Patrick Maher, who called the graduations “inspirational,” and then cited the words of the ancient Chinese philosopher Lao Tzu, “If you do not change direction, you may end up where you are heading.”
He added, “It takes a lot strength and courage to change direction and forge a new path in life, and this graduation is another step in your journey.”