Success Stories

Meet some of the many successful IU13 Community Education alumni!

Meet Alexandra – “These classes are the bridge to more people getting a GED.”

Nearly 20 years after dropping out of high school, Alexandra enrolled in classes at IU13 to earn her GED. In 2025, she was invited to the Governor’s Residence to advocate for continued adult literacy program funding. Learn more about Alexandra’s story here.
 

Meet Rafael – He did not miss an opportunity to make progress.

• Rafael completed his Robotics in Manufacturing training and has worked his way up to a fulfilling position as a Maintenance Mechanic. Read about Rafael here.

Meet Patrick – “This program gave me a purpose when I could have easily fallen into hopelessness.”

• During his incarceration, the Certified Manufacturing Associate (CMfgA) certification program helped Patrick build a future for himself and his young family. Read about Patrick here.

Meet Juan – “Facing a drop-dead deadline, GED student beats the odds.”

• Read about Juan. (photo credit: LNP/Lancaster Online)

Meet Patricia – ““I feel proud of myself and my husband Andrey, whom I met at IU13, for all our accomplishments as small business owners.”

• When Patricia immigrated to the US, she understood no English other than her name and country. Read about Patricia here.

Meet Zach – “The IU13 staff I worked with along the way have been greatly helpful and supportive of me from start to finish.”

• After college, Zach wanted to do more for his church and community. Read more about Zach here.

Meet Watum – “After learning English and getting my diploma, my life has drastically changed.”

• After immigrating from Africa, he pursued education to help support his family. Read more about Watum here.

Meet Jose  – “It was worth the effort, worth the push.”

• Since he passed the GED exams, Jose Santiago has found a higher-paying job, started college coursework, and acquired an unshakeable sense of accomplishment. Read more about Jose here.

Meet Binit – “Improving English language skills and making friends”

• Since arriving as a refugee in 2014, Binit has participated in English conversation classes, after-school activities, and a summer educational program. Read more about Binit here.