Joanita and Ziona Young, are a mother and daughter who attended Bard Microcollege Holyoke at the same time. They spoke at our 2023 Fundraising Party about studying together and finding themselves. Read Joanita's speech here I’m Ziona Young. I grew up in a large family -- one of seven siblings. We all had similar and unique names. Five of them starting with the same letter- Ziona, … [Read more...] about Ziona on Finding Individuality as One of Seven Siblings
Student Writing
Joanita on Studying Alongside her Daughter
Joanita and Ziona Young, are a mother and daughter who attended Bard Microcollege Holyoke at the same time. They spoke at our 2023 Fundraising Party about studying together and finding themselves. Read Ziona's speech here I’m Joanita Young, a homeschooling, divorced mom of seven children ages seven to 23. I enjoy going to museums and art galleries. I love to sew and make soap and anything to … [Read more...] about Joanita on Studying Alongside her Daughter
Jacqueline Velez and the Call from Oprah
Good evening everyone! My name is Jacqueline Velez. I am the proud mom of a 27 year old daughter who will soon be heading off to college and a 10 year old boy who loves Basketball. Who knows? You may be looking at the mom of the next Shaquille O’Neal. I am also a proud graduate of Bard Microcollege Holyoke. I was born and raised in Brooklyn, dropped out of school in the ninth grade and had my … [Read more...] about Jacqueline Velez and the Call from Oprah
Graduation Speech by 2023 Salutatorian, Destiny Bermudez
Welcome, everyone, to The Care Center Graduation of 2023! As I stand here before you, a frisson of excitement fills me, knowing that my peers and I have achieved this accomplishment, not only as young women, but also as divinely determined young mothers. It is an honor to be among all of you. I am filled with pride looking at you all and to bear witness to the true strength that we have derived … [Read more...] about Graduation Speech by 2023 Salutatorian, Destiny Bermudez