It was an evening of tears, triumph, and transformation as 21 adult learners walked the stage Thursday night at West Virginia University at Parkersburg. Each of them received a high school equivalency diploma through Wood County Adult Education—a major milestone in lives marked by resilience and renewed purpose.
For Instructor Deanna Addis, each cap and gown on the stage represented more than academic success.
“Every story is special,” Addis said. “These graduates have overcome significant barriers and put in tremendous work to achieve their goals.”
Among those graduates was Amanda Moore, a woman whose journey was anything but easy.
“At 14, I was a drug addict,” Moore shared. “I’ve got three years sober now. If somebody would have told me five years ago that I would be where I am today, I’d be like, ‘You’re crazy,’ but look, God shows up and shows off.”
Moore credited her children as her biggest motivation to turn her life around.
“My children deserve a sober mother,” she said. “I saw that I had hurt them, and it was time to step up and be the example.”
Alisa Pisula, another graduate, shared a similar story of redemption.
“God has done a lot. I was in addiction for 20 years,” she said. “Never thought this day would come, but I’ve been sober for almost seven years.” Like Moore, her children were her inspiration. Despite the struggles of single motherhood and full-time work, Pisula remained determined.
“It was hard being a single mom, working a full-time job, but it was worth it,” she said. “I don’t regret my journey, and I’m thankful for this evening and for what’s to come.”
Both women spoke highly of the support provided by the adult education program.
“They went above and beyond for me,” Moore said. “I stayed on afternoon shifts so I could go to school through the mornings, and they were really nice when I couldn’t make it to class.”
Moore also emphasized how financial barriers, a common hurdle for many adult learners, were eased by the program.
“As a single mom, money is tight everywhere,” she said. “Retaking tests would have cost around $90, so this was a tremendous help.”
Pisula and Moore now look to the future with optimism. Pisula hopes to guide others battling addiction.
“I actually want to try to help people who want to come out of addiction also and show them Jesus,” she said.
Moore has big dreams as well.
“This has opened up so many doors for me,” she said. “Whether that be college or opening my own business.”
Addis said the program’s flexibility is a major strength, with no income restrictions and services tailored to each student’s needs.
“Obtaining a high school diploma opens up more employment opportunities,” she said. “Graduates can now enter post-secondary training and work towards sustainable employment.”
Wood County Adult Education offers more than just GED preparation. Students can earn industry-recognized certifications in areas such as Microsoft Office, customer service, and basic computer skills—all at no cost.
Those interested in joining the program can visit the sixth floor of St. Joseph’s Landings or call 304-834-1019 for more information.
As the evening came to a close, one thing was clear: this ceremony was not just about education. It was about second chances, personal growth, and the unstoppable determination of individuals ready to reshape their lives.
