Boscov's Department Store, LLC reposted this
Last night, as we celebrated our 5th Annual Boscov’s, Truist, RACC Career Ready event, I felt an incredible sense of pride reflecting on what this program has become. What began as a crazy idea I had six years ago has blossomed into a national award-winning experience now serving nearly 100 RACC graduates—and this year’s event was truly our best yet. Held once again at Boscov’s Flagship Store in Exeter, the evening showcased the power of partnership and purpose. From the very beginning, Rhonda Hudak and Maria Mitchell have helped bring this vision to life with their dedication and commitment to our students. Thanks to the generous support of Truist, each selected graduate receives a $250 Boscov’s gift card—and Boscov’s extends an additional 15% discount—allowing our students to maximize this opportunity. Even more importantly, graduates participate in impactful sessions on budgeting, credit, and career planning, equipping them with tools for long-term success. For many of our graduates—especially single mothers who always put their families first—this experience is deeply meaningful. Watching them gain confidence as they selected professional attire, supported by our incredible RACC volunteers, the Boscov’s team, and our partners from Truist, was nothing short of inspiring. One moment in particular will stay with me. A student, with tears in her eyes, held onto my arm and said, “Thank you, Mr. DeMarco… thank you. You don’t know what this means. I have never shopped in a department store before.” I had to hold my breath as tears welled in my own eyes. Moments like that remind you—this is more than an event. It’s dignity. It’s confidence. It’s opportunity. After I opened the evening with a rousing welcome, we were honored to hear inspiring remarks from Jim Boscov , Community College President of the Year, Dr. Susan Looney, and Truist Regional President Daniel Belk— who all encouraged our graduates to believe in their potential and pursue their career goals with confidence. The Boscov’s leaders, led by Jim Boscov, Jacob Stein and Karen Schroder, once again delivered an outstanding presentation on interview attire, helping our graduates look and feel their best as they take their next steps. We salute the Truist team led by Dan Belk, Rebecca Heim, Linda Medley and Janelle Ellis for their important guidance on financial literacy. AND - a special thank you to Rebecca for staying late alongside Rhonda, Maria, Jake and me until nearly 9 p.m. This collaboration between Truist, Boscov’s, and RACC has become a model across the Eastern United States and a sought-after example at higher education conferences. Grateful for how far this program has come—and even more excited for what’s ahead. #RACCProud Boscov's Department Store, LLC Truist Susan Looney Rhonda Hudak, CFRE Jacob Stein Daniel Belk Rebecca M. Heim Janelle Ellis Megan Adukaitis Maria Navea Mitchell Carmela Capellupo-Beaver Jake Horay Megan Schappell Mara Nagle
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