September 3, 2008

Hispanics earn diplomas at Centro San Juan Diego
By Lara Montoya

Ninety-four students recently received diplomas after completing courses in English as a Second Language, General Educational Development (GED) and/or citizenship at Centro San Juan Diego.

An initiative of the Denver Archdiocese, Centro San Juan Diego forms lay leaders for the Church and society through various spiritual and educational programs and offers outreach to immigrants.

The graduations took place July 30 for the ESL students, and Aug. 12 for the GED and citizenship students.

Nate Wolfe, intermediate ESL teacher, congratulated the graduates saying: “Today is a great day to celebrate. When I first came to Centro San Juan Diego I knew nothing about teaching English. But I did know about the love and generosity of the Hispanic community and I felt the need to give back.

“In my short time here,” he continued, “I have been truly amazed and inspired at the hard work, dedication and determination all of you have shown to find better lives for yourselves. Each and every one of you is a true model that all of us should follow as an example and I applaud all of you being here today.”

Wolfe shared the story of a former ESL student.

“Less than a year ago, I met a young man in my class by the name of Jorge,” he said. “Jorge has a beautiful daughter and works long hard days in the hot sun doing construction. I asked Jorge what brought him to Centro San Juan Diego. He said he was tired of working construction and wanted a better life for himself and his daughter. In the short time I’ve known Jorge; I’ve witnessed him taking the steps necessary for a better life. He has been a dedicated student here at Centro to improve his English; he recently earned his GED and this coming September Jorge will begin college.
“That’s a true story,” he said. Pointing to an audience member he added, “He is sitting right there.”

Spouses José and Rosaura Reveles, who took the citizenship program some time ago and recently became American citizens, shared their experienced of being part of the Centro San Juan Diego family.

“We are very happy with what we have earned here,” Reveles told the crowd. “Thanks to this institution, I have gained more confidence in myself and I was able to overcome the fear of (taking) the test to become a citizen. Now I’m an American citizen and I encourage you to do the same.
“Trust in God and in what you have learned here,” she urged, “and you will succeed.”

David Simmons, a lawyer and volunteer teacher in the citizenship program, offered the graduates words of support, inviting them to avail themselves of the many benefits they can receive as American citizens and to never forget their roots.
Centro San Juan Diego is located at 2830 Lawrence St. in Denver.