The 2024 Odyssey Project/Proyecto Odisea Graduation

On Saturday, May 11, Illinois Humanities was thrilled to honor the achievements of the 23rd class of Odyssey Project/Proyecto Odisea students at the National Museum of Mexican Art.

The Odyssey Project/Proyecto Odisea Graduation is among Illinois Humanities’ favorite events of the year. Almost 40 graduates in the 2024 Odyssey Project/Proyecto Odisea class were celebrated by over a hundred family members, friends, Odyssey instructors, and Illinois Humanities staff.

Illinois Humanities Executive Director Gabrielle Lyon kicked off the ceremony sharing her story of how she persevered to further her education. Still, the stars of the ceremony were the class-elected speakers: Giovanna Pacindo (first-year, North Side), Noemí Delia Garcia (first-year, Proyecto Odisea), and Lori K. Bibbs (second-year).

“Making it to the end of the Odyssey program showed us what we are capable of accomplishing. We are now heading to our next chapter more confidently because of what we have learned and for that we will always be grateful,” Giovanna shared.

Lori touched our hearts as she shared the story of how she came to the Odyssey Project experience and how it turned out to be exactly what she was looking for. Fellow graduates related to Giovanna’s recounting of first-day jitters to finding your voice, building community, and finally completing the course.

We were inspired by Noemí’s story of perseverance in completing the course and achieving her goals: 

“Today I am overwhelmed by the emotion of having found this program, and making the best decision to enroll, which is no secret to anyone that the best decision is education,” Noemí said.

Following the speeches, as the audience cheered on, each graduate walked across the stage to receive their certificates and sashes. 

The ceremony ended with a photo collage from the 2023-2024 classes and field trips over a playlist by DJ L O Kari, a reception catered by Chef Jessica Pamonicutt (Menominee) and Ketapanen Kitchen, dancing, and good vibes.

“As I reflect back on these past two years, I met some of the kindest, smartest, most amazing people. And I want to say “thank you”,” Lori said.

Each year this ceremony reminds us that the Odyssey Project/Proyecto Odisea is so much more than a great opportunity, it’s an experience that generates a community of life-long learners, supporters, friends, and family. We hope you will join our community by participating in the class of 2025.

View the photo album