Contributed Article/Courtesy City of Safford
SAFFORD – The Safford City – Graham County Library’s Adult Education Program hosted the second annual GED Community Graduation on June 25, 2026. This ceremony recognized 13 GED graduates, past and recent. Anyone who had ever passed GED tests was welcome to participate and celebrate their accomplishments. Over 110 family and friends attended to support the graduates.
The ceremony opened with motivational remarks from City of Safford Manager Dr. Eric Bejarano. He also thanked United Way of Graham and Greenlee Counties for sponsoring the Adult Education Program and Friends of the Safford Library and Safeway for the graduation ceremony refreshments. Briana Aranda of “Party Girls” was also recognized for decorations. City of Safford Councilmember Brad Hemphill shared inspirational thoughts on the GED, including his own family’s history with this important milestone. Two speakers, Jules Thornhill-Garrison and Michelle Barragan, shared their personal and educational histories and how the GED was ultimately the best path for them. All graduates were then recognized with a slideshow and a certificate celebrating their accomplishments before tassels were flipped, culminating the evening. The ceremony is available on the Safford Library YouTube channel.
The Adult Education Program currently coordinates GED preparation for students in Graham and Greenlee counties. More than 120 students have enrolled in the program since it became locally supported by the United Way of Graham and Greenlee Counties and the City of Safford in September 2024. With an in-house teacher, Kristi Apodaca, available to provide resources and one-on-one instruction, students can prepare for their GED tests in various ways. Students are at various levels of participation, with some coming in regularly for tutoring sessions, while others receive resources to study independently, which better fit their schedules. Testing is available at three locations in the two counties. If you know of someone interested in their GED, please contact the Safford Library or email kapodaca@saffordaz.gov.
About the City of Safford
About the City of Safford: Nestled in the heart of Southeastern Arizona’s Gila Valley, the City of Safford is a vibrant rural community and the largest municipality in Graham County, with a population of just over 10,000. Incorporated in 1901 and becoming a city in 1955, Safford serves as the central hub for Southeastern Arizona. The City operates a wide range of services and facilities, supported by over 230 dedicated staff members, including full-time employees, seasonal workers, volunteer firefighters, and council members. In addition to providing essential utilities such as gas, water, electricity, wastewater, and sanitation, the City of Safford operates a golf course, an airport, a library, and a landfill that serve the broader county. Safford is committed to providing exceptional services and fostering a thriving community for all residents and visitors.
For more information about the City of Safford, please contact us at 928-432-4000 or visit us at https://www.cityofsafford.us.
