MORRIS COUNTY — Future health care workers, scientists, tradespeople and artists were among 25 NewBridge JobsPlus graduates who celebrated earning their high school diplomas at a commencement ceremony.
“I stand here today as a product of making it back,” said Kasiem Mollette, who spoke openly about battling depression and surviving attempts to end his life. He urged classmates to prioritize their mental health and never give up.
Sisters Mariana Matos and Virginia Leal came to NewBridge JobsPlus after being homeschooled. Matos, a pharmacy technician, plans to study environmental science at County College of Morris. Leal had struggled to pass the high school exam on her own before receiving the academic support she needed and has since joined the U.S. Marine Corps.
Yasell Castillo, 16, once dreaded going to high school and began skipping classes. At NewBridge JobsPlus, he flourished with support from staff and the friendships he formed.
“The time in NewBridge was some of the best time of my life,” said Castillo, who plans to train as an electrician. “It made me love school.”
Other members of the graduating class are pursuing nursing, fashion design, music production, HVAC and careers working with animals.
For 43 years, NewBridge JobsPlus has helped Morris County young adults overcome challenges, earn their diplomas and prepare for college and careers through academic support, coaching, skills training and counseling. NewBridge JobsPlus is funded by the Workforce Development Board, Morris-Sussex-Warren Employment Training Services and NewBridge supporters.
Graduating class honors went to Kasiem Mollette, Perseverance Award; Virginia Leal, Associate of the Year; Mariana Matos, Parker Endowment Scholarship; Justin Lopez, James Ryan Memorial Scholarship Award; Natali Quintuna, Isobel Wayrick Memorial Scholarship; Christian Garcia Martinez, Parker Endowment Scholarship; and Sal Hildebrand, Alumni Appreciation Scholarship Award.
