Harmony, NJ — The New Jersey Youth Corps of Phillipsburg proudly celebrated the accomplishments of nine young adults during its Fall 2026 Graduation Ceremony, held Wednesday, October 28, at the Merrill Creek Reservoir Visitor Center in Harmony Township, New Jersey.
The ceremony recognized the perseverance, personal growth, academic achievements, and commitment to community service demonstrated by the program's newest graduates. Surrounded by family members, friends, program staff, and community supporters, the graduates marked an important milestone in their journeys toward continued education, meaningful employment, and brighter futures. This graduation was particularly significant for the program, as it saw the children of two former graduates obtain their diplomas, and the fourth of four brothers earned his diploma as well.
“When I first began, I was a bit uncertain over how it would go. Over time, I grew more comfortable with the staff and my fellow classmates and I was able to adjust to the routine. Youth Corps helped alleviate my anxiety.”
Administered and funded by the New Jersey Department of Labor and Workforce Development, New Jersey Youth Corps provides young adults ages 16–25 who have left high school without earning a diploma with an alternative pathway to educational achievement, workforce readiness, and personal development. Through a unique combination of classroom instruction, career preparation, counseling, and hands-on community service, participants gain the knowledge, skills, and confidence necessary to pursue their personal and professional goals.
Throughout their 16-week terms of service, these nine graduates participated in an intensive program combining academic instruction and workforce development with meaningful conservation and community improvement projects throughout Warren County and the surrounding region.
Preston gives his speech at Graduation.
Class Salutatorian, Preston McCann (Son of NJYC Alum Justin McCann, ‘05) shared his story.
"My learning experience had always been a bumpy road. There was never a time that I really excelled in academics. From the beginning of middle school, I developed anxiety which was never easy to cope with. Large groups, big classes, as well as difficult and overwhelming work assignments began to take a toll on my mental health. I knew I was more than capable of getting my diploma. I just needed the right place to land. My dad was a past graduate and after hearing him say so many great things about the program, I felt it would be a good learning environment for me.
Preston with his father, Justin - who graduated from NJYC of Phillipsburg in 2005 standing in front of tree Justin planted when he brought a seedling home from a service project 21 years ago.
When I first began, I was a bit uncertain over how it would go. Over time, I grew more comfortable with the staff and my fellow classmates and I was able to adjust to the routine. Youth Corps helped alleviate my anxiety. It was different from traditional school in that the class size was much smaller and tailored to my specific learning styles. I also enjoyed having alternating days between academics and service learning. One of my favorite things is to be outside in nature and Youth Corps allowed for plenty of time to experience the natural world. My biggest accomplishment though is obtaining my diploma and passing each of my tests on the first try. "
Tri-County CMO representative Kevin Dyches addresses the audience.
One of the NJYC of Phillipsburg program partners, Tri-County Care Management Organization (providing additional curriculum and engaging programming relative to substance abuse, mental health, Social media, bullying, etc.) was also represented by Mr. Kevin Dyches who served as guest speaker. In his remarks, he reminded each of the graduates about their self-empowerment, and to always use their voice going forward.
The ceremony's location at Merrill Creek Reservoir was particularly meaningful, as the reservoir has served as a longstanding community partner and outdoor classroom for the Youth Corps. Through their work at Merrill Creek and other public lands, Corpsmembers gain practical experience in environmental stewardship, natural resource management, teamwork, and leadership while helping preserve recreational and ecological resources for future generations.
"Graduation is about much more than completing a program or earning an educational credential. It's about recognizing the determination it takes to make a change in your life and the courage to pursue something better," said Michael J. Muckle, Program Director of the New Jersey Youth Corps of Phillipsburg. “These nine young adults have demonstrated that their past does not define their future. They've worked hard, overcome challenges, supported one another, and made meaningful contributions to their communities. We couldn't be more proud of what they've accomplished.”
"One of the most rewarding aspects of Youth Corps is watching young people begin to recognize their own potential," Muckle added. "They arrive with different experiences, different challenges, and different aspirations, but they leave knowing they are capable of accomplishing things they may not have thought possible. Their graduation isn't the end of their journey. It's the beginning of their next chapter."
These guys are Au-some! The brothers Au - Justin, Jayden, Aaron and Larry Jr. (l. to r.) - all obtained their high school diploma through the NJ Youth Corps of Phillipsburg
One other storyline of note, was that Aaron Au, brother of NJYC of Phillipsburg graduates Jayden, Justin, and Larry Au, Jr. also obtained his diploma. While NJYC of Phillipsburg often refers to it's Corpsmembers as part of the ‘Youth Corps family’, the Au brothers literally embody that sentiment after thier brother's success!
As the nine graduates move forward into employment, additional education, vocational training, and other opportunities, the New Jersey Youth Corps of Phillipsburg continues its mission of empowering young adults through education, service, and personal responsibility.
The program is always accepting applications from eligible young adults interested in participating in an upcoming session. Apply here at www.njycphillipsburg.com/apply-now
For more information about the New Jersey Youth Corps of Phillipsburg or to apply for enrollment, visit www.njycphillipsburg.com or email info@njycphillipsburg.com.
