Congratulations on successfully completing your learning and development phase, and your internship! I commend you for using this year to build the foundation that will launch your professional career.

A year ago, you were sitting in a circle learning what this thing called Year Up was all about, and throughout this year you began to trust the process and experience the high support and high expectations of the Year Up movement. A movement in which you are an active part. A movement that will close the opportunity divide for generations to come.   

Once you graduate today, you become an even more permanent part of the movement as a Year Up Baltimore alum. The resources, support, and connections do not end; and your challenge to lift as you climb is just beginning. Take a look around you. I hope you find an even longer list of supporters now than at the start of your Year Up journey. Supporters committed to your continued journey and success. Stay connected. 

We thank Baltimore City Community College, our corporate partners, community partners, board members, mentors, volunteers, donors, and the Year Up Baltimore team for preparing the runway for your cohort to take off and soar. 

Today is not the end of the journey, today marks the completion of the first major step on your career journey. From everyone across the Year Up network, congratulations Class of Winter 2021 Graduates on this milestone, and the many more to come. I hope you never doubt the power you possess. There is no question in my mind that you are meant to do great things in this world! 

With great admiration,

Duane Reid