EDISON — As Edison Job Corps marked its 50th anniversary, it also celebrated one of its alumni.
During its quarterly networking event and anniversary party last month, the organization honored Willie Sanders, a graduate from the Class of 1966.
Unable to walk in his graduation ceremony at the time because he had started a job, Sanders was surprised and thrilled when students presented him with a cap and gown. As “Pomp and Circumstance” played in the background, Sanders marched with pride before his family and other attendees, later giving an impassioned speech, according to Edison Job Corps representatives.
Franklin Township Mayor Brian Levine was on hand to acknowledge Sanders, a resident of the township.
The featured guest speaker was Judge Tiffany Williams, also an ordained minister and founder of Tiffany Williams Ministries and the Ester Project, an empowerment movement for women and girls. She highlighted the importance of people and programs that support the career aspirations of today’s youth.
“A life of purpose begins by knowing who you are and what God wants you to accomplish during your life,” Williams said.
Edison Job Corps is a no-cost education and career-technical training program administered by the U.S. Department of Labor that helps young people ages 16-24 improve the quality of their lives through technical and academic training.
For more information about Edison Job Corps, visit edison.jobcorps.gov.