With a packed house of family, friends, staff and school officials, excitement filled the air as the Dowagiac Pathfinders Graduating Class of 2017 waited to receive their diplomas last week.

Through challenges and obstacles many traditional students never face, these graduates accomplished something that they can always be proud of, administrators said.

Superintendent Paul Hartsig quoted Steve Goodier as he addressed the seniors.

“Those who overcome great challenges will be changed, and often in unexpected ways,” Hartsig said. “For our struggles enter our lives as unwelcome guests but they bring valuable gifts.  And once the pain subsides, the gifts remain.  These gifts are life’s true treasures, bought at great price, but cannot be acquired in any other way.”

This year, 25 students earned their high school diploma through the Pathfinders Program.

Pathfinders is an alternative and adult education program serving the community of southwest Michigan. It allows for non-traditional students to obtain their high school diploma or GED. The program offers flexible scheduling and online courses, as well as traditional classroom opportunities.

“I like that I have some control over my schedule and the school is helping me get back on track,” said student Samantha Cain.

“A lot of our students have responsibilities at home and at work,” said teacher Mark Dzakowic. “Sometimes, the traditional school schedule does not work for them. This school provides a great opportunity that otherwise they wouldn’t have.”

2017 Pathfinder graduates:

Valeria Favela Brito

Cole Allan Canniff

**Matthew J. Fecho

Bernard Jamal Gaston, Jr.

Brandon J. Hatch

*Hernan Hernandez

*Diamond Lou Huff

*Jacqueline B. McCullough

Christopher Michael-Ray Kay

*Michael Scott Mortimore

Arron Jacob Kiggins

Gloryanna Kuscera

Grace LeeAnn Locke

Dorishia Lakesia-Ree McNeal

Austin J. Narovich

Kathryn Leigh Pasley

Samantha Jean Raab

Andrew J. Sandberg

Devin John Skogen

*Genaro Sotelo

*Justin David Taggart

*Brandon L. Trickett

Sasha Lashay White

*Antonisha Marie Wilson

Eric Michael Wilson

As the graduates of 2017 proved, it is never too late to obtain a degree, administrators said. People interested in earning their high school diploma may contact Kara Cox, coordinator of adult and alternative education for Dowagiac Union Schools, by calling (269) 782-4471 or by email at kcox@dowagiacschools.org.

*  Indicates student walked with cohort class at DUHS on Sunday, June 4

**Indicates student obtained a GED certificate