Student success culminates in graduation for Eliada School of Trade Arts' students

Donnell and Alex recently purchased their first cars from Paramount Kia! The day they picked up their cars, an announcement was made over the loud speaker at the dealership and the boys received a round of applause. Just one year ago, Donnell and Alex, along with their classmates Eric and Collin, came to Eliada with little to no personal resources or support networks, and a mere backpack full of belongings.

Donnell and Alex getting their cars is just one of many stories Eliada's staff has been sharing about the abundance of success the students in the Eliada School of Trade Arts's (ESTA) Culinary Arts Program have been experiencing recently. From securing jobs at Deerfield and Harrah's Cherokee Casino, to signing leases on their first apartments, to taking on leadership roles in Eliada's kitchen and cafeteria, these culinary students are showing us they're ready to graduate.

Donnell, Alex, Eric and Collin are graduating on July 11, 2014 in Eliada's PARC building! The ceremony is from 4-6pm and the students each chose a country and built a thematic menu of heavy hors d'oeuvres to serve to guests. Their menus will display their culinary skills and celebrate the culmination of their year in ESTA. Community partners, supporters, friends and family will all be in attendance.

Please join us in celebrating their success! Community members and the press are welcome to attend. Contact Tami Ruckman, Development Director, at (828) 254-5356 x306 to attend and/or address all press inquiries.