Davis Technical College (Davis Tech) is proud to announce a graduating class of 107 students in eight programs at Utah Department of Corrections (UDC). With themes of achieving goals and overcoming obstacles, Utah Lt. Governor Deidre Henderson delivered a keynote to graduates and others in attendance.
“Today’s not an end, and it’s not a beginning, but it is a significant point in time. It has widened the road in front of you, and opened new paths possible,” said Lt. Governor Henderson. “Education is a transformative force. It’s the great equalizer. The catalyst of the American dream.”
She continued, “It’s not our failures nor is it even our successes that define us, but it’s how we persevere. It’s how we respond to, and learn from, the obstacles and challenges in our paths…nothing worth doing is easy.”
Student speaker, Christopher Aziz, graduated today from the Welding Technology program and has been employed as a teacher’s assistant. He’s currently enrolled in the Business Administrative Services program with an eye to starting his own welding fabrication shop upon release.
“It’s our choices in each moment that define who we are, not our past choices, but our present ones,” states Aziz to the other graduates. “So, ask yourself who you are, who you want to be, and make the choice to face the obstacles to learn and grow. Use the time that we have been given to become the person we are here to become. Keep growing and keep going.”
Kassie Tolman, who is graduating with a certificate in Business Administrative Services and a certificate in Culinary Arts, worked as a teacher’s assistant for several months in her business program. Tolman will be released from UDC in September and plans to seek out a career using her new business skills.
“I have always wanted to be a teacher and never thought I’d get a chance to do that. I’m extremely grateful for my position there. I love that I get to help people each day,” said Tolman. “It feels awesome to have the skills and knowledge that I have now. I get to wake up and feel that I have a purpose. I get to do something that I love doing. I can’t wait to apply the skills I’ve learned to my life outside of here.”
Lt. Governor Henderson left the graduates with this, “As you prepare to reenter society, as you prepare for your futures, I want to assure you that you are not alone. The state of Utah is committed to providing you with the resources, and the support, and opportunities that you need to succeed. We believe in second chances, and third chances, and we are invested in your success! The skills and knowledge that you have gained here, thanks to Davis Tech, will serve you well in the job market. Graduates of this institution are employed in all sorts of fields of study. Your prospects for finding meaningful and worthy work are bright.”
Davis Tech and UDC partner to provide valuable skills and knowledge to help individuals transition back into their communities. Over the last three years, only 22 percent of Davis Tech UDC graduates have returned to prison compared to 66 percent recidivism nationwide.
In November, UDC awarded Davis Technical College the Corrections Champion Award, presented to local lawmakers and organizations who have shown exceptional support for the Department of Corrections’ mission to improve people’s lives and enhance community safety.