Pima JTED Program Completion Ceremony invitation

  • Friday, May 17, 2019
  • Gates open 6:30 p.m. Ceremony starts 7:30 p.m.
  • Kino Sports Complex (2500 E. Ajo Way)

The Pima JTED Program Completion Ceremony will celebrate the inspiring stories of 650 students who have completed their Central Campus Career and Technical Education programs.

This year, we have several students who have completed one or more JTED programs, won awards, and secured jobs, despite obstacles such as being hearing impaired, or being homeless.

Kuiana Cordova is completing her Certified Nursing Assistant and Caregiver programs with near perfect attendance, she was tardy 1 day. She’s also been homeless, moving in and out of various relatives’ homes and staying with friends and a boyfriend while she earned her State Certifications so she can work in a high-demand job right out of high school.

Lorenzo Nourjian, a student at Star Academic High School, is completing both the JTED Construction Technologies, and Heavy Equipment Operations programs. He has also been homeless and receives help from Youth on Their Own. Lorenzo will also start a job upon graduation. The Metropolitan Education Commission recently awarded him the 2019 Dorothy O. Finley Outstanding Teen Award for overcoming adversity and being persistent with pursuing his education. He also won first place in the SkillsUSA Regional Electrical competition.

Marianna Rodriguez, who attends the Arizona State School for the Deaf and Blind is completing her Early Childhood Education program. She recently competed at the FCCLA State competition and finished with a Gold medal in the category for Advocacy. Marianna focused on the importance of providing hearing impaired students, such as herself, with the resources to have a successful educational experience. She will compete at the FCCLA National Conference in July.

 Jose Lopez, also a student at ASDB who is hearing impaired, is completing the 3D Animation and Game Design program. Jose recently won a Gold medal at the SkillsUSA State competition for 3D Visualization & Animation. 

During the ceremony, Potoff Private Philanthropy will announce a $350,000 pledge from Ross Potoff to the Pima JTED Foundation, and present a $5,000 scholarship to Cosmetology student Kiersten Hancock, for creating a two-minute video about her JTED experience.