Thomas Belknap of Bethel and Harley Ross of Blanchester were recognized for their accomplishments during their school years.
CCDD Superintendent Dan Ottke welcomed the audience and introduced special guests that included former Superintendent Donald A. Collins, who is also a member of the Clermont DD Empowers Me Board, and members of the CCDD Board: Rex Parsons, President; Kim Pellington, Vice President; Robert Grant, Secretary; Greg Carson, Laurie Benintendi and Harry Snyder. Staff from the Wildey School also attended, as well as family members and friends of the graduates.
“This is an exciting time for us, as we will be celebrating our 50th anniversary next year,” said Ottke. “We are happy so many people could be here this evening to support the graduates and their families.”
Belknap was the recipient of the Donald A. Collins Achievement Award for the accomplishments he achieved during his years at the Wildey School.
Special music was provided by Nathan Grant, a Clermont DD Teen Volunteer who played two songs on his violin. Grant was the winner of the 2014 Clermont’s Got Talent event and is a graduate of Cincinnati Country Day school; he will attend Harvard in the fall.
Diplomas were presented to Ross and Belknap by Wildey Principal Jay Williams and Chris Branson, Special Education Director of Blanchester Local Schools.
“The Wildey School is an incredible place,” said Branson. “I have been so thrilled with what Harley has accomplished here and am so proud of him.”
Belknap plans to attend the CCDD Adult Services Program that is located at the Wildey Center.Ross will be enrolled in the Nike Center Adult Program, which is operated by the Clinton County Board of Developmental Disabilities in Wilmington.
Guests enjoyed a reception immediately following the ceremony.