Student Spotlight: Maxime

My name is Maxime. I’m 36 years old, and I’m from the pearl of the Caribbean—Haiti. I’m a proud father of four beautiful children: a 16-year-old boy and three girls.

Although I had prior education in my home country, it did not transfer as a degree in the United States. That’s why I came to The Literacy Alliance to complete my high school equivalency (HSE) diploma, as a first step toward attending college. But what I’ve found here is much more than just a path to an HSE. This program has had such a positive effect on me, and being part of it has been a true blessing.

I discovered a group of wonderful people who share a common goal: to set up every student for success in every aspect of life. They help us identify our strengths, stay focused, and provide whatever resources they can to support us. The dedication of the staff and teachers has been inspiring. Their belief in each student’s potential and their commitment to making the program meaningful is deeply appreciated.

Now, I envision attending college to earn a degree in business. With that degree, I plan to create my own business and serve as a mentor, helping small and medium-sized business owners grow and build wealth for our communities.

Thank you for creating such a valuable and transformative program. The lessons I’ve learned, the friendships I’ve built, and the confidence I’ve gained through The Literacy Alliance will stay with me forever.

Sometimes the resources we need for success are right in front of us, but we don’t recognize them. Many of us who once thought we couldn’t take the next step—whether to college or to a better job—because we hadn’t completed our HSE, have now done it and are pursuing careers. I encourage you to join this program and have the same, or even better, experience. I guarantee you will love it.

My deepest gratitude goes to Francine Liebhauser, who saw the potential in me and helped me enroll in this program.

To my teachers and coaches—Amy, Megan, Deb, Charlee, Anita—thank you for everything.

Thank you.