GRADUATE OF THE YEAR KAITLIN LOGAN
The Graduate of the Year is awarded to an outstanding person who com- pleted a Goodwill program, is competitively employed outside of Goodwill, and who overcame barriers to attain and maintain employment.
At just 16, Kaitlin became a mother and left high school, uncer- tain of what her future would hold. “My life was a struggle for me,” she recalled. “I was living day by day instead of just living.” Deter- mined to change her path, she en- rolled at The Excel Center, Good- will’s tuition-free adult high school that helps Arkansans earn a high
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school diploma regardless of age or circumstance. Kaitlin earned her diploma and described the moment as “the greatest thing—I was so proud of myself.” She added, “When I graduated, I felt alleviated.” Her story captures her strength, optimism and desire to create a better future for her family. But Kaitlin’s journey didn’t stop with graduation. Inspired by her success, she continued her education through The Academy at Goodwill, earn- ing her Certified Clinical Medical Assistant (CCMA) certification. Today, Kaitlin works at Arkansas Children’s Hospital as both a CCMA and Ophthalmic Technician, where she’s making a meaningful difference in the lives of children and families every day. She continues to set her sights high: “I’m trying to start nursing school,” she said. “Once I complete that, I want to get my Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN). I really love school.” Kaitlin’s journey represents the very heart of Goodwill’s mission—changing lives through education, training, and employment. Her resilience and commit- ment to lifelong learning embody the power of second chances and the ripple effect of generational transformation that begins when opportunity meets deter - mination.
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