WHEREAS, the process of lifelong learning is critical to the development of North Carolina residents and our state’s growing economy; and
WHEREAS, adult learners are role models in their families and communities as examples of growth and perseverance; and
WHEREAS, expanded higher education opportunities for adult learners is vital to North Carolina and the prosperity of its communities; and
WHEREAS, adult completion of higher education can help families establish a better quality of life; and
WHEREAS, adult students often have increased work, financial, and familial responsibilities in addition to their commitment to education; and
WHEREAS, thousands of adult North Carolinians are returning to higher education institutions across our great state to begin or complete degrees; and
WHEREAS, North Carolina has set a statewide goal of two million working-age North Carolinians, between the ages of 25 and 44, with a degree or credential beyond high school by 2030; supporting adult learners in attaining a postsecondary degree or credential is a critical strategy in achieving that goal;
NOW, THEREFORE, I, ROY COOPER, Governor of the State of North Carolina, do hereby proclaim October 5, 2022, as “ADULT EDUCATION DAY” in North Carolina, and commend its observance to all citizens.