A Reflection by MLC Tutor Dr. Gerry Kuroghlian of Fairfield

“Friends have asked me why I am teaching at Mercy after 43 years at the university and high school levels. My answer is that my best years of teaching have been reserved for my retirement. I have never had students who complete all their homework, attend regularly, are rarely tardy and are as eager to learn as the students at MLC. These women are simply in love with the idea of literacy. I think all who tutor at the Center are struck by the desire and dedication to obtaining literacy that we see on a daily basis. What do we as teachers and tutors receive? As teachers we gain the knowledge of their other countries and other religions, as well as deep friendships. Their gratitude and thanks are priceless.

The stereotypes of poverty are obliterated by the multitasking women we teach who can work two or more part-time jobs, supervise their children by walking to and from school, monitor homework, clean and wash, prepare meals on a shoestring budget, and visit to the Center for their own education. They are the heroines of the inner city and are to be applauded. Mercy is also special to me because of the positive environment in which we regularly celebrate our successes. Job promotions, citizenship attainment, earning a GED and college acceptance are occasions for rejoicing. The Center’s closing ceremony in May beats any of the 100 university graduations I have attended. Every student is celebrated and every student is honored for her achievements.”