CTF‑Soledad recognizes 160 graduates

December 3, 2024

The Correctional Training Facility (CTF) in Soledad celebrated the achievements of over 160 student graduates in November.

These Nov. 14 and 21 graduations, hosted by Valley Adult School and Career Technical Education, marked significant milestones. The graduates earned GEDs, high school diplomas, associate and bachelor’s degrees, and vocational program certifications.

CTF Warden Edward J. Borla expressed his admiration for the graduates’ dedication to self-improvement through education.

“These ceremonies are not just a celebration of academic achievement, but a testament to the power of education in transforming lives,” he said. “I am immensely proud of each graduate and encourage all to continue on this path of learning and rehabilitation.”

Blanca Buller, Supervisor of Correctional Education Programs, reflected on her extensive experience in education.

“In my 30 years as an educator, both in K-12 as well as post-secondary, working with students at CTF has been one of the major highlights of my career. Seeing the students choose to face the reality of their circumstances and then to see them strive to better themselves is a very humbling experience. Also, to work alongside such dedicated staff that are showing up to do the hard work daily,” Buller said. “I could not ask for a better team. It is such a privilege to be a part of a team that promotes healing, developing, and ultimately applying what we learn to pay it forward.”

The graduation days were made even more special with the presence of family and friends, who witnessed their loved ones’ achievements firsthand. Graduates had the opportunity to capture the moment with photos, and the celebrations concluded with a banquet.

Submitted by Lt. W. Landrum