LaGuardia Community College's GED Bridge Programs held their first Student Recognition Ceremony on February 3, 2009. Graduates and current members were recognized for their achievements and participation in these programs. In collaboration with the New York City Mayor's Office of Adult Education and MetLife Foundation, students prepare for careers in healthcare or business while they study for the high school equivalency diploma (GED) exam. Of the more than 150 participants recognized at the ceremony, 63 have earned a GED diploma.

Commending students for participating in the program and others for earning their GED diploma, Deputy Mayor Dennis Walcott encouraged them to "take the next step up the ladder." He continued, "We will all face challenges in our life….the question is making sure you have a support system in place to [help] you make it to the top of the ladder." "A high school diploma is essential, but it's just a platform," commented President Gail Mellow. "The next time I see you, I'll be shaking your hand as you graduate from LaGuardia."