WILMINGTON – Jobs for Delaware Graduates announces its 45th Anniversary Celebration will be held Oct. 23 at 5:30 p.m. at the Hotel du Pont in Wilmington.

The event will honor nearly five decades of empowering Delaware’s youth by equipping them with the tools they need to succeed in both their educational and professional journeys. 

Founded in 1979 by former Gov. Pete DuPont, Jobs for Delaware Graduates has helped over 115,000 students throughout Delaware develop the skills necessary to thrive in the workforce. Through its dedicated career development programs, Jobs for Delaware Graduates has been a vital partner in ensuring that students not only graduate but also transition smoothly into meaningful employment. 

Event highlights: 

• A curated display featuring a time capsule of archived items, tracing back to the founding of Jobs for Delaware Graduates 
• Honoring long-serving supporters whose dedication has helped ensure Jobs for Delaware Graduates success
• Highlighting graduates who attribute the program to their career and life journeys  
• Commemoration of government leaders who have helped shape Jobs for Delaware Graduates legacy 

Jobs for Delaware Graduates unique blend of mentorship, academic support, and career preparation has consistently proven its effectiveness in reducing dropout rates, boosting graduation numbers, and equipping students with critical life and work skills.

By working closely with Delaware’s schools, local employers, and government partners, Jobs for Delaware Graduates has paved the way for thousands of young people to find meaningful careers and contribute to their communities.

"This milestone event is more than just a celebration—it's ‘A Journey Through Time’ reflecting on our rich history and looking forward to the bright future ahead," said Jobs for Delaware Graduates President Nicole Poore. 

Jobs for Delaware Graduates began a national movement dedicated to preventing dropouts among young people.  The Jobs for Delaware Graduates model has been replicated in 39 states, with a footprint across 1,450 communities, nationwide. Known as Jobs for America's Graduates, the JAG network impacts more than 94,000 youth and young adults annually. JAG graduates consistently achieve outstanding results, including a 95.7% graduation rate. JAG graduates are 230% more likely to be employed full-time compared to their peers, and twice as likely to go to college. 

As Jobs for Delaware Graduates celebrates this important milestone, it also looks to the future. The organization is committed to expanding its programs to reach even more students and deepen its partnerships with Delaware’s business and educational communities. The 45th Anniversary Celebration will be a key fundraiser, with proceeds directly supporting Jobs for Delaware Graduates initiatives to provide career development services to students across the state.  

Sponsors include:  

• Delaware City Refinery 
• Thurgood Marshall College Fund 
• PJ Morgan Chase 
• W.L. Gore & Associates
• AT&T
• Preferred Electric 
• Chesapeake Utilities 
• Nemours 
• Christiana Care
• Bank of America 
• IFS Benefits 
• Delaware State University Foundation, Inc. 
• Parkowski, Guerke, & Swayze
• Delaware Restaurant Association
• Emergency Response Protocol
• HELP Initiative 

For more information about Jobs for Delaware Graduates or to attend the event, visit jobsdegrads.org, or contact Chevonne Boyd at cboyd@jdginc.org.