Bright Idea: DSME Graduation Ceremony Celebrates Achievements of Beneficiaries to Better Control Diabetes

A participant (pictured above) from one of HSAG’s DSME classes borrowed a cap and gown from a family member and wore it to the graduation ceremony, saying “I have never graduated from anything in my life … this is my first time!”

by HSAG, the QIN-QIO for Arizona, California, Florida, Ohio, and the U.S. Virgin Islands gives beneficiary participants pride and encourages them to continue using their class lessons. Moreover, some peer trainers cite their graduations as motivation to become trainers. HSAG considers these ceremonies a success because of the emotional response expressed by graduates, as well as the motivation it creates.

The classroom is decorated with graduation banners and balloons, and family members and friends are invited to the celebration. “Pomp and Circumstance” is played loudly as participants are recognized with a certificate of graduation. A final toast with sparkling flavored water in “champagne glasses” is made by class participants, trainers, family members, and friends to salute their futures, diabetes control, and better health.