👤 Who: 16 adult graduates (15 from Okaloosa County, 1 from Walton County), Okaloosa County Board Chairman Paul Mixon, Library Cooperative Coordinator Vicky Stever, Niceville City Manager David Deitsch, Wendy Kauffman
📋 What: Graduation ceremony for adult learners earning high school diplomas and career certificates
📅 When: Saturday, Nov. 1, 2025, at 2:00 p.m.
📍 Where: Niceville Community Center, 204-C Partin Drive N, Niceville, FL 32578
🎯 Why: To recognize adult learners completing the Career Online High School program and advancing education and career opportunities
Niceville, Florida – The Okaloosa County Public Library Cooperative invites the public to join in celebrating the achievements of 16 adult learners who have earned their high school diplomas through the Career Online High School (COHS) program. The ceremony will take place on Saturday, Nov. 1, 2025, at 2:00 p.m. at the Niceville Community Center, 204-C Partin Drive N, Niceville, FL 32578.
This year’s graduating class includes 15 residents from Okaloosa County and one from Walton County, all of whom successfully completed the rigorous, self-paced online curriculum designed for adult learners. Graduates earned both a high school diploma and a career certificate in fields such as home health care, office management, childcare, and more.
“Public libraries provide resources that empower individuals to pursue their educational and career goals,” said Vicky Stever, Coordinator of the Okaloosa County Public Library Cooperative. “The COHS program allows adult learners to take a step forward in their careers while balancing work, family, and other life responsibilities.”
Okaloosa County Board Chairman Paul Mixon highlighted the significance of the program, stating, “We are proud to support these individuals who have made the deliberate choice to better their lives and the lives of their families by advancing their education and careers. This program has changed the lives of so many people over the years.” Mixon also recognized Stever, who will retire after 13 years of service with the Cooperative. “Vicky has done a great job spearheading this program, and we wish her well in her retirement,” Mixon added.
The graduation ceremony will feature a commencement address by Niceville City Manager David Deitsch, with diplomas presented by Wendy Kauffman, Chief Operating Officer of Smart Horizons Career Online Education. Remarks will also be shared by past and current graduates of the program, highlighting personal experiences and the impact of completing the COHS curriculum.
The Career Online High School program provides a second chance for adult learners aged 19 and older who were unable to complete traditional high school. Participants receive tuition scholarships through local libraries and must meet eligibility requirements, complete a prerequisite course, and maintain consistent progress throughout the program, which may take up to 18 months to complete. Graduates emerge with both a high school diploma and a career-focused certificate that can help them advance in the workforce or pursue further education.
Stever emphasized the broader impact of the program: “This diploma represents perseverance, sacrifice, and hope. Adult students balance family responsibilities, jobs, and life’s many demands to reach their goals. They are role models for their children and inspire others to follow the dream.”
The public is invited to attend this celebration to support the graduates and recognize their achievements in turning ambition into accomplishment.
Pro Communi Bono
St. Francis De Sales, Ora Pro Nobis!
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