Balancing two jobs, Everett mother graduates from nursing program with big dreams ahead

After three years of perseverance, hard work and sacrifice, Katia Lopes de Abreu graduated in May from Bunker Hill Community College with an Associate of Science in Nursing. For the Everett resident, this achievement marks an important step toward her goal of becoming a registered nurse. A mother, wife and working professional who holds two jobs, Katia has balanced countless responsibilities while keeping her educational goals in sharp focus.

“The First Literacy scholarship has been incredibly helpful,” said Katia. “It allowed me to reduce my work hours so I could focus on my studies and clinical responsibilities, which made a significant difference in my success.”

Each year, First Literacy, a Boston-based nonprofit, awards $1,500 scholarships to recent graduates of Massachusetts Adult Basic Education (ABE) or English language programs who are continuing to vocational training or higher education. Since the program’s launch in 1990, over 600 scholarships have been awarded to adult learners across the state in recognition of educational achievements, community service and perseverance.

Now that she has completed her associate degree, Katia plans to continue on to a Bachelor of Science in Nursing program and deepen her skills in patient care.

“I’ve always had a strong desire to care for others and make a positive impact in people’s lives,” she said. “To anyone pursuing their education: don’t give up. There will be challenges, but with perseverance and support, your goals are absolutely within reach.”

About First Literacy

In 1988, a consortium of public and private sector leaders, including Mayor Raymond Flynn and Boston Globe publisher William O. Taylor, established the Boston Adult Literacy Fund (BALF) to expand and improve Adult Basic Education (ABE) in Boston. Twenty years later, BALF became First Literacy. With a focus on funding innovation in adult literacy, First Literacy plays a unique and critical role in adult education and literacy in Massachusetts. Through program grants, free teacher workshops and scholarships for adult learners, First Literacy reaches over 8,000 adult learners and 200 teachers across Massachusetts every year. For more info, visit www.firstliteracy.org.