Graduation spotlights student achievement
Published June 2013
Graduation is always a time of new beginnings, and for the 25 graduates YATC's Class of 2013, the May commencement was no exception. These determined young people stood before their friends and family to celebrate their achievements and embark on their new lives, many leaving behind violence, drugs or crime. Each YATC graduate has a special story of challenge and triumph. Several, however, were selected to receive special awards to acknowledge their individual efforts or to speak to the crowd on behalf of their class.
Pictured above are several of the 2013 award winners (from left):
Michael Turner and Bruce Beuchert, recipients of Best Attendance Awards; Terry Routley, YATC executive director; Kelly Lively, recipient of the Turnabout Award for most significant life changes; and Billy Watson, recipient of the Jump Start Award for excellence in automotive knowledge, repair skills and a desire to pursue a career in the auto repair industry
In her graduation address, speaker Gabriel Stewart (right with Routley) said, "YATC means a family that truly cares, understands and wants the best for you. It teaches you what you need to know to be independent and successful."
The prestigious 2013 Jim Moran Award was presented to Doug Dunbar, an anchor of the CBS 11 news in Dallas, Texas. Dunbar is a committed supporter, constant friend to YATC and emcee of the
Jim Moran Classic for 16 years. Along with his wife Camie who serves on the YATC Board of Directors, Dunbar gives generously of his time, resources and expertise to YATC in a variety of ways. In addition to his work with YATC, Dunbar is an award-winning television journalist and dedicated father of two. YATC is proud of our long relationship with Dunbar and salute him for his bighearted community service to YATC and many other organizations.
Unfortunately, due to work commitments, Dunbar was unable to personally attend graduation. Thanks to collaboration with CBS4 Miami, he joined the event via direct feed. Click here to see the moving presentation of the 2013 Jim Moran Award.
Congratulations and good luck to all members of the Class of 2013!