Anxiety.
Depression.
Addiction.
Acquired Brain Injury.
Each of these afflictions can create a barrier to higher education.
Last month, Clemente students of all ages and from many backgrounds shared inspiring stories from tales of despair, journeys through rough waters, and ultimately - success.
The Clemente program continues to help adults from disadvantaged backgrounds to shake off the setbacks of the past and find hope for a new beginning. And listening to the students’ stories is living proof of the significant, positive outcomes Clemente provides to those who are looking for a second chance.
Clemente has provided me with a purpose, and that has had profound effects and changes on my life."
- Clemente student
During the Clemente celebration, eight students were awarded with a certificate of completion for this semester’s unit - an Introduction to Sociology - and two students graduated from the Clemente Fitzroy program.
Unfortunately, many students had to withdraw from this semester due to significant challenges they were facing in their lives. But with strength, determination and ongoing support from CatholicCare and Australian Catholic University (ACU), these students will have the opportunity to participate in the next semester of Clemente in the new year.
We thank ACU for our ongoing, life-changing partnership; we thank our funding partner the Noel and Carmel O’Brien Family Foundation for their invaluable contributions; and we thank everyone else involved in making the Clemente program possible, including the lectures, coordinators, counsellors, learning partners and peer supports who give their support and compassion.
Image: students with Clemente coordinators and lecturer.