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GED® & high school completion ceremony
Black Hawk College recently celebrated the accomplishments of 74 students at the annual GED® and High School Completion Graduation Celebration.
The event recognized Adult Education and Optional Education students from across the college district who completed all GED® or high school completion graduation requirements during the 2025-26 school year.
Fifty students earned their GED® (now called the State of Illinois High School Diploma) and 24 earned their high school diploma.
View photos from the celebration.
At the ceremony, 2026 GED® graduate Shanequa Creed of East Moline shared her thoughts and gratitude.
GED® grad Shanequa Creed
“Hello. Good evening everyone! First and foremost, I would like to thank God for allowing us to be here today to honor and celebrate the success of all the graduates of the class of 2026.
“I would also like to thank my teacher Mr. Jim Trivette for believing in me when I didn’t believe in my self and couldn’t see it through.
“I remember when I first walked into his classroom and saw the cap and gown hanging up. I then said to myself and to him ‘I can’t wait to wear that proudly!’ And here I am today in front of you all.
“I am so grateful for this journey because I’ve grown and elevated on so many different levels. Even with the ups and downs, I still beat the odds and overcame every obstacle I was presented with.
“To my family and kids who watched me struggle and cry to complete this milestone, I thank you guys as well for all the encouraging words and support. I could not have done any of this without you all.
“To my fellow classmates and graduates of the class of 2026 who walk this path with me, all I can say is that we made it! God bless everyone!
“I’m Shanequa Creed and I walk away gracefully and humbly into the next great chapter of my life!”
GED® & high school completion classes
GED® and high school completion classes at Black Hawk College are offered at no cost to students and are conducted in a variety of locations. New sessions will begin in August.
For more information, call or visit one of these learning sites: