Menu

"Ode to You Award!" Awarded to Adult Basic Education

ode to you award adult basic education
By Adriana Jimenez

December 10, 2025 - 01:06 PM

In October, the DREAM Program chose to pass the "Ode to You!" award to Adult Basic Education team, within the School of Continuing Education Division. The award was presented to Lesley Johnson, Director of Adult Basic Education, and the Adult Basic Education staff. The Dream Program shared the following comments about the Adult Basic Education team:
 

“The DREAM Program is honored to shine a light on the Adult Basic Education (ABE) team within the School of Continuing Education, naming them the next recipients of the 'Ode to You' award.

 

In the quiet yet powerful work of building educational pathways, the ABE team has become a steadfast bridge—connecting dreams to opportunity, and community to college. These pipelines are more than infrastructure; they are promises kept to those who have long been left at the margins. Through early outreach and unwavering support, ABE has opened doors for future Mt. SAC students, nurturing hope where it once only flickered.

 

Under the thoughtful and committed leadership of Director Lesley Johnson and Assistant Director Omi Miri, the ABE team has cultivated a sanctuary of guidance and care. Their work begins with foundational goals—whether a High School Diploma, a GED, or other milestones—and blossoms into access to higher education. Programs like the Adult Education Special Admit (AESA) initiative have reimagined what is possible, extending the reach of college to those who may have never seen it within grasp.

 

Their dedication is not only evident in the programs they’ve built, but in the compassion woven into every process they’ve refined. They make the path clearer, the journey gentler, and the destination attainable. In every effort, they embody the spirit of equity and inclusion, reminding us of the work we must all do to uplift students who walk nontraditional paths.

 

In times of uncertainty—especially for our immigrant communities and undocumented students—the ABE team has been a guiding light. Their commitment is a beacon, illuminating the way forward for those navigating complex and often challenging terrains.

 

With deep gratitude, the DREAM Program celebrates the ABE team’s enduring devotion to ALL our students. You are not only builders of pathways—you are keepers of possibility."

 
About the award: The “Ode To You!” is a department-to-department award that will continue to be passed along quarterly. This new award was inspired by the memory of retired classified employee, Odette Richardson, who was one of the founding members of the VOICES Committee.  During her tenure, Odette was very active with CSEA, Chapter 262, the Mt. SAC Staff Association, and many other campus initiatives. Odette’s advice was always to “get involved.”  She felt that by getting involved at work, you enrich not only your own work experience, but you enrich the experiences and provide benefits to the students, colleagues, and the community you serve.
 
VOICES Representatives: Ruben Flores & Loralyn Isomura
Photo Credit: Ruben Flores

Announcements