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Owens Aspire student, educator win state awards

Millicent Carrick

Duaa MustafaAli

An educator and former student in the Owens Aspire Program for adult learners each received awards from the Ohio Department of Higher Education during Ohio Adult Education Week.

Duaa MustafaAli, an instructor in the English for Speakers of Other Languages program, was named the Outstanding Educator of the Year for the northwest district. She was one of six winners across the state.

Millicent Carrick, who recently passed all components of the GED test and earned her High School Equivalency credential, was named the Outstanding Student of the Year for the northwest district. Carrick was one of five statewide winners.

“We are thrilled to know that, in our region, both the Outstanding Educator and Outstanding Student came from the Owens program,” said Heath Huber, director of the Aspire Program. “Many nominations from all over the state were submitted, each celebrating the efforts of students and staff alike in improving the quality of life for Ohio residents through adult basic education and workforce preparation.”

Adult Education Week was started in 2022. The Ohio Department of Higher Education and the Ohio Department of Education and Workforce have used the week to celebrate educators and students of Ohio’s adult education system.

MustafaAli, who has been at Owens for more than five years, said her award is a reflection not only of her efforts but those of the entire Aspire program, saying it’s “a recognition of how much we all invest in our students’ success.”

“My inspiration comes from seeing those ‘light bulb moments’ when learners realize, ‘Hey, I can do this!’ I’m motivated by the thrill of helping people unlock their potential,” she added. “Witnessing their growth and resilience pushes me to work harder to support them in achieving their goals.”

According to Huber, Carrick, of Toledo, showed strength in overcoming challenges along her way, showing skill and perseverance.

MustafaAli and Carrick will be recognized during the Ohio Association for Adult and Continuing Education Award Luncheon on Friday, October 25, in Dublin.

To learn more about the Owens Aspire College and Career Readiness Center, please visit owens.edu/ccr.