By Jennifer Fetterly
Madison College
For many adults, earning a high school credential is more than completing a diploma requirement, it is a pathway to college, career advancement and greater opportunities for themselves and their families. Each year, Madison College’s School of Academic Advancement helps hundreds of learners reach that milestone.
This spring, 400 students earned their high school credentials through the college’s General Educational Development (GED) and High School Equivalency Diploma (HSED) programs.
The ceremony’s keynote speaker, Alejandra Vazquez, shared a story that resonated with many graduates. A former migrant student and first-generation Latina, Vazquez earned her high school credential through Madison College’s HSED program before continuing her education. She later earned an associate degree, bachelor’s degree and master’s degree, and now works as a high school counselor.
Speaking to graduates at the Truax campus ceremony, Vazquez emphasized the importance of recognizing their achievement and setting an example for others. “For every classroom you enter, every degree you earn, every program you complete, and every time your voice is heard, those are opportunities for you to open the door for someone else to succeed,” she said.
She encouraged graduates to move forward with confidence as they pursue new opportunities: “Your world is unfolding now to see what you will become. Walk forward with courage, have faith, use your voice and never forget that you belong and help shape the world.”
For the 2026 graduates, earning a high school credential is a step toward college, career training, a new job or personal fulfillment.
The Madison College School for Academic Advancement offers a variety of learning opportunities in-person and online, in the morning, afternoon or evening. For more information on earning high school credentials at Madison College, visit Madisoncollege.edu, email saa@madisoncollege.edu, or call 608.258.2440.
