For nearly a decade, the Rotary Club of Marietta has supported the Marietta Performance Learning Center, a program that works to help students complete high school while developing business skills in preparation for entering the job market. To encourage students to stay on task, Rotary members participate in social outings, donate business attire, and send items such as gift cards to recognize achievement.
Recently, the students and Rotary members got together for a networking brunch at the Georgian Club to celebrate the successful partnership.
"It's important to us that you are successful," Mitch Rhoden, president and CEO of Futren Corp. and past president of the Rotary Club of Marietta, told the young scholars. "We're really proud to have you here today."
Tammie Roach is the Marietta Performance Learning Center's academic coordinator.
“We work with students who have gotten behind in their credits but are very smart and capable,” she explained. “Life happens. We know that they need and deserve and can get high school diplomas. The Rotary Club has been a huge supporter. I can’t thank you enough for giving us this opportunity.”
Mary Ansley Southerland of W.D. Little Mortgage, who helped organize the event, added her congratulations and issued a challenge.
“We want you to know how much the Blue Devil Nation supports you,” she said, referring to the Marietta High School mascot. “Life isn’t a straight line. Never forget how much this community loves and supports you.”
She then noted her personal interest in the students’ success.
“Once you have a job, save a little money and have good credit, call me,” she said. “I want you to buy a house and live in Marietta!”
Tanya Griggs, the learning center's English learning facilitator, and site coordinator Marilyn Sanchez attended. Students who joined them were Deandre Parris, Fanazia Johnson, Mirna Lopez, Daisy Villareal, Kollin Whitaker, Antoinette Wilcox, Amari McFadden, Maria Correa, Jaylynn Haywood, Kadiah Horsley, Wakil Byron, Logan Powell and Kortni Lawson.
