El Cajon - State Senator Dede Alpert will help send the Spring 2002 graduates of Grossmont College's unique Office Professional Training Program on to new lives with good jobs Friday, June 7 at 6:30 p.m. in the Main Quad on the college campus.
 
     Now in its 17th year of operation, the OPT program has provided a fresh start to mature and re-entry students, many of whom had been laid off or who are considered "dislocated" workers. More than 1,600 individuals have participated in the intensive 20-week program to train for good jobs in the insurance and accounting industries, as well as for general office employment. College services are augmented with special support and job placement activities specific to the OPT program.
 
     "In order to complete this rigorous program" said Grossmont College President Dr. Ted Martinez, Jr., "students must be tenacious and committed. They build their self-esteem as they build new skills. Although funding was in doubt, we are happy to announce that future students will also have the opportunity to transform their lives through OPT."
 
     Due to the state budget crisis, college officials had been seeking alternative funding to maintain this important job skills program, which is offered free to qualified low-income adults. In early May, state officials announced funding from the Workforce Investment Act and "Rapid Response" to continue the OPT program for two years.
 
     On June 7, 17 new OPT graduates will join the ranks of the OPT Alumni, an active group organized by former graduates to help mentor and support current students. Four of the new graduates are already employed by such companies as Teague Financial Services and Paychex. More than 100 friends and family members, some also OPT graduates, are expected to attend.
 
     Dr. Mary Leslie is the program's lead instructor. The program has received a Student Success Award from the Board of Governors and the Chancellor's Office of the California Community Colleges; and from the California Community College Association of Occupational Educators.
 
     For more information about the Office Professional Training Program, contact Dr. Mary Leslie, 619 644-7533.
 
     Driving instructions to Grossmont College, which is located at 8800 Grossmont College Drive in El Cajon, are available at www.grossmont.net.