by Martha Irvine
Associated Press Writer

CHICAGO (AP)—What’s that? A young college grad lecturing her elders about online privacy?

It might go against conventional wisdom, but a new report from the Pew Internet & American Life Project is adding fuel to the argument that young people are fast becoming the gurus of online reputation management, especially when it comes to social networking sites.

Two stories of determination reached a happy conclusion last month during Clarion University’s commencement ceremony, when Nathan Griffin and his mother, Phyllis, both received undergraduate degrees in liberal studies.

Both overcame challenges to reach their goal of a college degree—Phyllis, who started at Clarion in 1973 and left to get married; and Nathan, who had to sit out a semester and earn money so he could return to Clarion from his native San Antonio, Texas, and finish his degree.

NATHAN AND PHYLLIS GRIFFIN across from Founders Hall at Clarion University.

Bidwell Training Center, a subsidiary of Manchester Bidwell Corp., held its annual graduation celebration and reception last month at Rodef Shalom Congregation. The Hon. Dwight Evans was the graduation speaker. This year, as a part of Bidwell’s graduation celebration, Bidwell Training Center honored Jack Forsythe, recipient of the third annual Fabric of The Community Award. The award showcases the extraordinary accomplishments of an individual who has made significant and consistent contributions to the career training industry.

GRADUATES WITH STAFF WITH DWIGHT EVANS

Graduates from Bidwell are currently working in training related fields throughout the region. Bidwell’s annual graduation ceremony is a celebration of success and hope for approximately 167 students who have successfully completed career training or G.E.D. preparation.

Orlana Darkins and Darnell Drewery didn’t know that the many postings on Facebook from teenagers wanting to win Shyne Awards and become successful adults would lead to the first SHYNE Conference Workshop.

The SHYNE Awards recognizes the positive achievements of young adults aged 13-19. The initiative was begun three years ago by Darkins and Drewery.

ORLANA DARKINS AND DARNEL DREWERY

“We kept getting messages from people on our Facebook page who wanted to know how to be successful,” said Darkins. “We kept getting the posts and we said that this could really turn into something.”