Dr. Rashid Abdu addresses college students

Photo

SPECIAL TO THE VINDICATOR Some of those attending the Sister Jerome’s College Christmas program Dec. 21, from left, were Dr. Patricia Kelvin, mentor; Kayla Sawhill, YSU freshman; Sister Jerome Corcoran; and Dr. Rashid Abdu. Clarence and Rose Marie Smith, supporters of Sister Jerome and her ministries, are in the background.

CANFIELD

Staff report

The featured speaker during the Sister Jerome’s Mission College Christmas program Dec. 21 at the Ursuline Center was Dr. Rashid Abdu, retired surgeon and founder of the Joanie Abdu Comprehensive Breast Care Center in Youngstown.

Sister Jerome’s Mission College program, a program of Ursuline Sisters of Youngstown, helps college students from low-income families by providing mentors who help them with the higher education system and with assistance with food, clothing and transportation. The program also help students break the cycle of generational poverty. Students earn degrees so they are prepared for careers that enable them to support themselves and their families.

Dr. Abdu, who was born into an agricultural society in Yemen, shared his personal experiences and the challenges he overcame to obtain his education. He also discussed the importance of perseverance.

For information about Sister Jerome’s Mission, call 330-259-8765.