PHILADELPHIA – Adult Education Philadelphia (AEPHL), a division of the Mayor’s Office of Education, honored adult learners from across the city at the 2026 Citywide Graduation on Wednesday, June 24, at Bonnell Auditorium at Community College of Philadelphia. The ceremony recognized Philadelphians who earned a Commonwealth Secondary School Diploma by passing the GED or HiSET exam.
Graduates celebrated alongside family members, educators, City leaders and community partners. The program featured a commencement address from H. Patrick Clancy, President and CEO of Philadelphia Works; remarks from Dr. Debora Carrera, Chief Education Officer for the City of Philadelphia, and Gretchen Spencer, Manager of Adult and Community Education at Community College of Philadelphia; and a graduate address by Lorelai Brown of Beyond Literacy.
“Many adult learners pursue this goal while working, caring for their families and managing responsibilities that can make returning to the classroom difficult, said Dr. Debora Carrera, Chief Education Officer. “This graduation recognizes not only the credential they earned, but the persistence it took to reach this moment. We want every Philadelphian considering the next step to know that free help is available. And most importantly—they can do it!”
“What you’ve accomplished is really significant,” H. Patrick Clancy, President and CEO of Philadelphia Works, told graduates. “The persistence that you’ve shown during this period of time to get to where you are tonight is extraordinary.”
Beyond Literacy provided a cap and gown for every graduate, helping ensure that each participant could take part fully in the commencement tradition. Graduates personalized their caps, crossed the stage and closed the evening with a celebratory cake-cutting alongside the people who supported them.
AEPHL connects Philadelphia residents age 16 and older with free classes in reading, writing and math; basic computer skills; high school equivalency preparation, including GED and HiSET preparation; and English for speakers of other languages (ESOL). A Career Navigator can help residents identify a program that fits their goals, schedule and location.
To enroll, call 1-833-750-5627. Live translation is available. Learn more at phila.gov/adult-ed.
Watch video from the 2026 Citywide Graduation!
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About Adult Education Philadelphia
Adult Education Philadelphia, part of the Mayor’s Office of Education, works with community-based organizations to provide adult education for Philadelphia residents age 16 and older. These services help residents build the skills they need to pursue their personal, professional and civic goals. Programs include reading, writing and math; basic computer skills; high school equivalency preparation; and English for speakers of other languages. For more information, visit us online or call 1-833-750-5627.