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The Stars Shone Bright: Celebrating ASCI’s Class of 2026
Some moments deserve to be slowed down and celebrated. The 10th Annual Senior Celebration at A Second Chance, Inc. (ASCI) was one of those moments. On June 24, graduating seniors, their caregivers, families, and the ASCI community gathered at Dave & Buster’s at the Waterfront for an evening that was about much more than receiving gifts or hearing speeches.
It was about recognizing every late night studying, every obstacle overcome, every encouraging conversation, and every person who helped these young people reach graduation.
As each senior was introduced, the room filled with applause. Caregivers beamed with pride, staff smiled from across the room, and families celebrated a milestone that represented years of perseverance, growth, and unwavering support.
“I want to congratulate all the seniors for their accomplishments.”
— Isaiah Gonzalez
Throughout the evening, speakers reflected on the importance of investing in young people and believing in their potential long before they believe in it themselves. Those words echoed what ASCI has always stood for: that every child deserves someone in their corner.
Celebrating 10 Years of Senior Success
For Dr.Christine White-Taylor, this year’s celebration carried even greater significance as the event marked a decade of honoring ASCI graduates.
“I’m so happy we’re celebrating our 10th anniversary. This year we’re not only recognizing our graduates, but also talking with students about tuition, welcoming alumni back to share their experiences, and creating an even more memorable celebration. Thanks to our dedicated committee, we’re also able to present special awards and scholarship awards to four outstanding students.”
— Dr.Christine White-Taylor
Recognizing Excellence Beyond Graduation
In addition to celebrating this year’s graduates, the evening recognized several outstanding youth with scholarship awards, helping support their continued educational journeys. The event also honored several staff members with awards recognizing their unwavering dedication, compassion, and commitment to empowering the young people they serve.
The celebration also honored the caregivers whose love, patience, and commitment helped make these accomplishments possible. Their support serves as a reminder that success is rarely a solo journey. Behind every graduate is a community of people who encouraged them to keep going, even when the road wasn’t easy.
Making Memories Together
Of course, it wouldn’t be a celebration without a little fun!
After the program concluded, the graduates traded the podium for arcade games, laughter, friendly competition, and plenty of unforgettable moments with friends, family, and the ASCI team. For a few hours, everyone simply enjoyed being together, celebrating not just where these students have been, but where they’re headed next.
The Next Chapter Begins
Whether the next chapter includes college, career training, military service, or entering the workforce, one thing is certain: these seniors are leaving with the strength, resilience, and support of an entire community behind them.
To the Class of 2026, congratulations! Your stories remind us why this work matters, and your futures remind us that the brightest chapters are still ahead.
Here’s to celebrating the past 10 years of Senior Celebrations and to many more milestones still to come. If you want to experience the celebration in real time, stay tuned for our upcoming video recap!