News Summary
Bowling Green recently held a significant graduation ceremony for the Academy for New Americans, celebrating a record 30 immigrants who completed the program. This milestone underscores the city’s commitment to supporting immigrant integration and community engagement. The graduates, representing 13 countries and speaking 21 languages, participated in a comprehensive program designed to foster understanding of local governance. The Academy has empowered new residents, highlighting their contributions to the community and paving the way for future cohorts.
Bowling Green Celebrates Record Graduation of 30 Immigrants
The City of Bowling Green recently held a graduation ceremony for the Academy for New Americans, witnessing a significant milestone with 30 immigrants graduating. This cohort marks the largest in the program’s history, highlighting the city’s ongoing commitment to immigrant support and community integration.
The ceremony took place at the Sloan Convention Center and followed a session dedicated to civic engagement and volunteerism, emphasizing the importance of active participation within the community. The graduates, who collectively represent 13 different countries and speak a remarkable 21 languages, have gone through a comprehensive program aimed at fostering their understanding of local governance and services.
The Academy for New Americans was established in 2016 to help immigrants and refugees learn how to navigate city services and become well-informed residents. The program provides essential tools and resources to assist new Americans in their adjustment to life in Bowling Green. Leyda Becker, the community engagement division manager, noted that the program equips participants with the knowledge necessary to effectively interact with city operations while also building their confidence to act as community liaisons.
Graduates were required to attend at least four out of five monthly sessions, which ran from February to June, in order to complete the program. As part of the final session, participants engaged in volunteer work with the Bowling Green/Warren County Habitat for Humanity, further solidifying their commitment to community service.
Among the graduates was Manitra Arimalala, who made history as the first person from Madagascar to complete the program. Her experience reflects the diverse backgrounds of the participants and their shared goal of contributing positively to their new community. Another graduate, Evelyn Aung, expressed her gratitude for the opportunities provided by the Academy, which has enabled her to integrate more deeply into the fabric of Bowling Green.
Looking ahead, the Academy for New Americans will welcome its next cohort in January 2026, continuing its mission to support and empower immigrants in the Bowling Green area. The ongoing success of the program underscores the importance of fostering an inclusive community where all residents can thrive and engage meaningfully with one another.
As Bowling Green acknowledges the rich contributions of its immigrant population, the graduation of 30 participants serves as a powerful reminder of the potential and resilience found within diverse communities. The Academy for New Americans stands as a beacon of support, guiding new residents toward successful integration and active citizenship.
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Additional Resources
- WBKO: Bowling Green Celebrates Largest Graduating Class Academy for New Americans
- Spectrum News1: Academy for New Americans Holds Graduation
- WNKY: Academy for New Americans Honors Newest Graduating Class
- Kentucky.com: News on Immigration and Local Events
- Wikipedia: Immigration to the United States
Author: STAFF HERE BOWLING GREEN WRITER
The BOWLING GREEN STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREBowlingGreen.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Bowling Green, Warren County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the National Corvette Homecoming, International Festival, concerts at SKyPAC, and sports events at Beech Bend Park. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce and the African American Museum Bowling Green Area, plus leading businesses in automotive, apparel, and healthcare that power the local economy such as General Motors Corvette Assembly Plant, Fruit of the Loom, and Med Center Health. As part of the broader HERE network, including HERELexingtonKY.com and HERELouisville.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Kentucky's dynamic landscape.
