The Arc Gateway PALS 2019 Graduation Held in Pensacola

The Arc Gateway Program for Adult Learning and Support (PALS) held a graduation ceremony for the Class of 2019 on December 12 at Pensacola State College in Pensacola. Thirty-two students graduated with certificates in food services, general studies, cleaning and maintenance, retail services, administrative services, or horticulture. One student will be pursuing a degree at the University of West Florida, while another student will be pursuing an associate degree at Pensacola State College. Of the 114 PALS graduates, 70% are employed. The PALS program is offered at no cost to the students and door-to-door transportation provided to students in Escambia and Santa Rosa counties. Each student is paired with a mate or mentor on the Pensacola State College campus. 

Melissa Rogers, the Arc Gateway Chief Executive Officer, welcomed the graduates. Pensacola State College President C. Edward Meadows provided the President’s Address thanking the supportive community for offering meaningful employment opportunities.  Senator Doug Broxson provided the commencement address thanking former Senator Don Gaetz and recognizing Belle Bear for bringing the program to the area and assuring continued support. He said, “Success in life is not a solo journey.” Broxson thanked the parents, the college, and job training for help finding abilities and for realizing students' potential so they can determine their own destiny. Individuals can go to www.arc-gateway.org/pals/ to apply for spring 2020 or call the PALS team at 850-484-1185.



Thirty-two students graduated with certificates in food services, general studies, cleaning and maintenance, retail services, administrative services, or horticulture.