Brehm Graduates Reflect and Give Thanks (3 of 3)

“I have matured dramatically, become much more social, made better grades, felt better about myself and others, and learned to be more independent. If it weren’t for Brehm, I would be at the same maturity level as I was in public school…. For ten long years in public school, the teachers never even attempted to explain how to socialize or how to interact properly…. Brehm took me above and beyond by teaching me my own potential.”

– Jordan

“Brehm has taught me lifelong lessons. I’ve learned how to get rid of all of the prejudices that common people have and, instead, celebrate the differences among human beings. I’ve learned how to respect, love, and care with NO boundaries. I would like to thank Coach Aaron Lee for giving me the opportunity to be part of this family, for his love, support, patience, and leadership on and off the court. I would like to thank all of the teachers for their patience and availability in transmitting knowledge. I would also like to thank my advisor, Mrs. Marian Appiah-Kubi, for her endless love, kindness, respect, advice, and (over)care :-p. I would like to present my regards to Mr. Douglas, Mrs. Douglas, and Mrs. Amanda Clough for their undeniable support, love, and attention. I would like to give nursing and the kitchen staff a shout for their motherly love and for making sure that I was healthy and well-nourished. The final thanks goes to Dr. Collins for giving me the opportunity to take advantage of a great educational and social program which also helped me get a full ride scholarship to Vanderbilt University. I am incommensurably happy to say that I have accomplished my goals here at Brehm and that I am ready to face new challenges at the college level and be useful to society.”

– James

“I am so happy today because I am graduating, a feat I didn’t think possible just 9 months ago. A lot has changed in my time here. I have grown up a lot. There was a time last year when it appeared I would not make it and I would have to leave Brehm. But then maturity kicked in, and I changed my life forever. I took the help that was being offered to me. Here I am today graduating high school and moving onto higher education. The last few years have been filled with obstacles and a few great triumphs. I want to thank the following people for all of the time and effort they have invested in me: My dorm parents, Jason, Ed, Kristin, and Joe, for all of the times you talked with me and helped me figure out the big parts of my life. I want to thank my amazing advisor, Chrissy Strusz, who helped me apply for college…. You are awesome, and I cannot thank you enough. I want to thank my teachers, who made this such a great learning experience. I want to thank my amazing family for all of their love and support despite the odds against me. Mom, Julie, Dad, Gaga, and Grampy, thank you for everything you have done. Thank you to everyone who has made this process possible.”

– Daniel

“I would like to thank several people, some who were my teachers, and others who I met and got to know well. Each one has helped me become the man I am today. They showed me who I could be and helped me get there. Thanks to: Terri Douglas, Nancy Bagshaw, Judy Carter, Deb Browne, Shelly Greenball, Francine Clebowicz, and Joan, and all of my teachers. Each one of you has helped me individually to become more than I thought I could be. I would also especially like to thank my parents, who always believed in me and were the starting point of my success. Thank you all for seeing my talents and potential. I want to thank you from the bottom of my heart for giving me such a bright future.”

– David