College program applauded for lending helping hand
At the S.O.A.R. luncheon are, front row from left, Victoria Liddell, Sarah Noland,
McKensey Dearman and Margie Moore. Back row from left are Imanii Johnson EL, Aniya
Huff and Michael Burton.
Offering both employers and students thanks and encouragement for their efforts, officials
with Meridian Community College’s Eagle Skills for Occupational Advancement and Readiness (S.O.A.R.) program hosted its annual luncheon.
“Sometimes life can get tough for all of us. But you guys have decided to come back to school and get involved in your educational process to prepare you for a better future. We’re here to celebrate you and thank those employers who do internships with us and provide the support,” said Joseph Knight, MCC vice president for workforce solutions.
S.O.A.R. is an out-of-school youth program designated for Lauderdale County residents that offers work ethics training, financial literacy guidance, career readiness certificates, and 600 hours of paid work experience. Specifically, S.O.A.R. is geared for former students who have graduated or dropped out of high school and range in ages 16-24.
“I do love this job because it is so refreshing the young people we touch with this program,” said Victoria Liddell, program director. Margie Moore serves as the coordinator of the program.
The luncheon was a thank you to the employers and their roles in helping with the program and the students. “We couldn’t do it without you,” Liddell said. “We know they are young, and some need a mentor. It’s all about gaining a work ethic,” she added.
Liddell noted that the program sponsors students in different phases from just beginning in SOAR to those who co-enrolled in adult education and some enrolled in MCC. “They are all outstanding,” she said.
Employers at the luncheon included K&R Optical Solutions, Creative Kids Daycare, Wesley House, Love’s Kitchen, and The Rib Shack. S.O.A.R. has also partnered with the City of Meridian.
McKensey Dearman, was one of the students congratulated at the luncheon. She earned her GED, went through the S.O.A.R. program, is a student in the Culinary Arts Program and doing an internship program. “This program helped me out getting me where I am right now. I don’t know what I would do without y’all,” she said.
MCC President Dr. Thomas Huebner added his thanks to all the participants. “The people here who are on the front lines are making a huge difference. They’re making it in our community. Putting your feet and your hands into the work is so meaningful and so important,” he said.
He applauded the students. “You are commended for the decision to be a part of something that moves you forward,” he said, adding this advice, “Don’t stop. Just keep going forward.”