Wayne Halfway House Celebrates 76 Graduates and First-Ever College Graduate

Graduation Day is a big deal in every young person’s life, and especially for the youth of Wayne Halfway House. Graduation represents a tangible fresh start – the chance to leave the past behind and start a new life chapter with purpose, meaning and dignity. 

Recently, Church of the City in Franklin, Tennessee, joined by the Department of Children’s Services, local businesses and community partners, hosted a ceremony honoring and celebrating the youth who have earned diplomas, certificates or degrees this year while in custody or foster care.  

Out of 76 graduates, one young man received special honor and recognition as Wayne Halfway House’s first-ever college graduate.  

“He is such a great guy,” says WHH Community Outreach Coordinator Tim Ray. “He’s the type of person who easily makes friends with everyone he meets, and his smile and positive attitude are contagious. I’ve had the privilege of helping him obtain employment at Piggly Wiggly and now at Emeralds Restaurant. His managers and coworkers have nothing but good things to say about his work ethic and personality.”  

Since coming to Waynesboro at the end of 2023, this young man has applied himself with discipline and intent, earning his high school diploma and a Machinist degree from Tennessee College of Applied Technology. He is now working toward another advanced degree, in Combination Welding, and continues to work at Emeralds while he finishes school. 

When we talk about not letting your past mistakes define the rest of your life, this is exactly what we’re talking about. We are so very proud of this young man, and can’t wait to see what his bright future holds!