On September 16th, Oklahoma was proudly represented in Washington, D.C. as Chris Myers, State Advocate for Adult Education Fellow (SAAEF), joined one of his former High School Equivalency graduates, and current COABE Student Ambassador, Kendric Marshall at COABE’s “Flood the Hill” event. This powerful gathering brought educators, students, and advocates together on Capitol Hill to raise national visibility for adult education and meet directly with Members of Congress.

Kendric’s story was the heartbeat of the day. After leaving school in the 9th grade, he came to OIC of Oklahoma County reading at just a second-grade level. In little more than a year, he earned his diploma and increased his reading proficiency by a full grade level each month. Since then, Kendric has gone on to earn certifications in electrical, plumbing, and auto-mechanic work, increasing his earnings from $8 an hour to nearly $35 an hour. His journey shows the undeniable power of adult education to transform not only lives, but entire communities.

Together, Chris and Kendric shared this message with Oklahoma’s leaders, meeting with representatives from Senator Mullin and Representative Bice’s offices, and speaking directly with Senator Lankford. They emphasized the essential link between adult education, workforce readiness, and a thriving economy, urging Congress to continue, and expand, investment in adult education so that more stories like Kendric’s can unfold across our state.

This is what adult education makes possible. This is why we advocate.