Thanks to the collective efforts of Graduation Matters Gallatin (GMG), Roy Juarez made on impact on Bozeman and Belgrade communities. Roy captivated our community’s attention by sharing his story of neglect, homelessness, and ultimately his achievements. The dogged belief of his mentor and his own grit propelled Roy to graduate high school and earn a college degree.
Approximately 30 people, mostly families, attended the community-wide event held in Belgrade and 50 persons including college students, GMG associates, and educators, attended the evening presentation delivered in MSU’s Student Union. Roy’s ability to subtly adjust his presentation for various age groups created camaraderie with his audience.
When Roy specifically addressed the students of Belgrade and Bozeman High, a unique stillness filled the school auditoriums. Rather than the frequent whispers, movements and cell phone texts, students focused on Roy, some openly emotional and others ready to reveal their story. One 
group of students was overheard discussing how their friend, a recent drop out, could have benefited from Roy’s message.
If the goal of Graduation Matters Gallatin was to ignite dialog amongst students, families, teachers, and community members about the importance of high school graduation, GMG accomplished it! Over 50 students eagerly waited to speak with Roy after his presentation in Belgrade and over 100 students from both communities connected with him on Facebook. Many students discovered something familiar in Roy’s story, while others wanted to learn more about becoming more aware and empathetic. As a community, we can improve our understanding of how out-of-school circumstances affect student’s ability to focus and perform in-school, recognize the value of every child, and the impact that even a single healthy adult mentor can have on child. As Roy said, “We’ve got to be better.”
Share the message - - Education is a pathway to a better life. Watch for future events and information about GMG, which may include a monthly column in the newspaper, public service announcements on television and radio, and a Facebook page or GMG website.
