Raising the bar on local education

As of Saturday, 124 more people living and working in this region have earned degrees beyond high school. At commencement ceremony Saturday on the Hannibal-LaGrange College campus, people crossed the staged to accept a variety of degrees, including the college’s first ever Master’s Degree candidates. The educational process that afforded this degree-granting ceremony in effect lifted the overall educational status of the entire region.
With education comes problem solving skills and a thirst for more knowledge. One person lifted to a higher level of education in turn lifts others to follow suit. Once the norm was a high school education. Today, thanks to the availability of increased opportunities, that level is rising to associate degree and beyond.
Hannibal-LaGrange College is not solely responsible for this rise in educational levels. There are trade schools and a community college that are also having a significant impact on this region’s educational level.
Despite where an education is acquired, or what field is chosen for advanced studies, one thing is clear: Each ounce of learning translates into a stronger and more successful workforce.
Today, while we celebrate the accomplishments of the graduating class at HLG, we pause to look at the broader outlook. Teachers with advanced learning skills. Students with international outlooks. Health care professionals with the latest in patient care skills. And students who are looking toward a broader horizon not only for their own wellbeing, but for the betterment of all.
Congratulations, graduates. May the foundation of your education serve as a launching pad toward a bright and prosperous tomorrow.