Here’s an update on Kelsi from her family:
Kelsi recently graduated from ClemsonLIFE on April 25, 2015. The president of the university’s wife, Beth Clements, was the speaker at the ClemsonLIFE graduation and delivered a powerful message, including an invitation to the graduates to walk in the upcoming university graduation ceremony! Each graduate delivered their own prepared speeches about what they learned during their journey at Clemson. Not too surprisingly, Kelsi deviated from her prepared speech (we learned later) and commented on, and thanked each of her family members present. There was not a dry eye in the house when she finished!
At the Clemson University graduation two weeks later, the ClemsonLIFE Graduates began a new tradition at Clemson University and walked with the Class of 2015. Both ceremonies were overwhelming. President Clements provided ClemsonLIFE parents and families with reserved “front row seating”. When he introduced the ClemsonLIFE Graduates there was an immediate standing ovation, exploded initially by the 900+ university graduates on the floor of Little John Coliseum, then joined immediately by all in attendance. As they walked the stage to receive their diplomas the Trustees came down from their seats and there were hand shakes, hugs and applause all around! This was truly an amazing rewarding ceremony that will never be forgotten!
But, about Kelsi…..she started ClemsonLIFE in January 2013 assisted by a grant from Ruby’s Rainbow in August as she prepared to start her second semester at Clemson University, Clemson, South Carolina. Now that she’s back home on the Mississippi Gulf Coast, she has been participating in Dream Program Unified Softball and helping out as she volunteers with the group and does everything she can to assist with equipment handling and getting the field set up.
She has just been hired as a Wellness Assistant at the YMCA and will begin her new job mid-June. As she waits, she’s working on obtaining CPR certification which is a requirement for the position. Kelsi has also been accepted for membership in the Coastal Civitan Club and is involved in helping plan for their first camp for individuals with disabilities in late June, where she will be serving on staff. We are all looking forward to a full summer with new opportunities for her continued growth.
Thank you to Ruby’s Rainbow for your generosity and life long involvement in her life!
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