On a momentous day, twenty-five high school students were honored with a certificate of completion, marking their successful journey through Environmental Leaders of Color’s (ELOC) first computer class. This event, held on Saturday, May 4, 2024, was made possible by the generous sponsorship of Con Edison and the TRC Companies.
The ceremony was graced by esteemed guests, including Shayne Brooks, Mount Vernon’s Director of Sustainability; Ramona Burton, Director of SUNY Westchester Mount Vernon; and Randall Hayden, Vice-Chairperson of the ELOC Board of Directors.
The atmosphere was filled with excitement as proud parents and friends cheered on the graduates.
Dr. Diana Williams, ELOC’s Executive Director, congratulated the students on their accomplishments. Marvin Church, ELOC’s co-founder, who attended every class, commended the students’ performance and commitment to finish the program. Randall Hayden emphasized the importance of learning computer science because technology will play a substantial role in their personal and professional lives. The students were awarded certificates from ELOC, certificates of merit from the Westchester County Board of Legislature supported by Hon. Tyrae Woodson-Samuels, and certificates of completion from the Mount Vernon City School District supported by Lorna Kirwan, President, Mount Vernon Board of Education and Dr. K. Veronica Smith, Acting Superintendent of Schools, Mount Vernon City School District.
Parents expressed their gratitude for their children’s participation in the first phase of the Advanced Computer Class and pledged their continued support for the fall semester.
Students eager to continue their learning journey can now register for the upcoming fall session at https://eloc.earth/advanced-computer-science-program/. After the ceremony, guests were treated to a delightful lunch courtesy of Sweet Potato Restaurant, New Rochelle, NY.
